Crispy Baked Falafel

$- 1 cup dried chickpeas, soaked overnight - 1 small onion, roughly chopped - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped - 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped - 1 teaspoon ground cumin - 1 teaspoon ground coriander - 1/2 teaspoon baking powder - 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional) - Salt and pepper to taste - 3 tablespoons olive oil (plus extra for baking) - 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (preferably whole wheat) Now, let’s talk about the ingredients. You need dried chickpeas. Soak them overnight to soften. This makes them easier to blend. Next, chop a small onion and mince two garlic cloves. These add a lot of flavor. Then, chop fresh parsley and cilantro. These herbs give the falafel a bright taste. For spices, you will need ground cumin and ground coriander. These warm spices create a lovely base flavor. Baking powder helps the falafel rise and stay fluffy. If you like heat, add cayenne pepper. Adjust salt and pepper to your taste. To bind everything, use olive oil and whole wheat breadcrumbs. The oil adds richness, while breadcrumbs help hold the mixture together. With this list, you can create a crispy, flavorful falafel. Check out the full recipe to see how to bring these ingredients together. - Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. - Drain and rinse the soaked chickpeas, then transfer them to a food processor. - Add onion, garlic, parsley, cilantro, spices, and salt to the food processor. - Pulse until finely ground, maintaining some texture — avoid turning it into a paste. - Mix olive oil and breadcrumbs into the falafel mixture. - Shape into small balls or patties and arrange them on the baking sheet. - Lightly drizzle or brush tops with olive oil and bake for 20-25 minutes. This process allows you to create crispy baked falafel that is full of flavor. Enjoy making these at home! For a detailed recipe, check the Full Recipe. - Use dry chickpeas instead of canned for better texture. - Ensure falafel aren’t overcrowded on the baking sheet. To get that perfect crunch, start with dry chickpeas. Soak them overnight. This makes them plump and ready to blend. Canned chickpeas can make your falafel mushy. Next, when you place your falafel balls on the baking sheet, give them space. Crowding can lead to steaming instead of crisping. - Add spices like paprika or nutmeg for different flavor profiles. - Incorporate other herbs like dill or mint for a fresh taste. Spices can change your falafel game. A sprinkle of paprika gives warmth. Nutmeg adds a hint of sweetness. Fresh herbs like dill or mint bring brightness to every bite. Experiment with these flavors to find your favorite mix. - Flip the falafel halfway through for even crispiness. - Consider broiling for the last 2-3 minutes for added browning. When baking, flip your falafel halfway. This helps them brown evenly. For an extra crispy finish, turn on the broiler for the last few minutes. Just watch closely to avoid burning. This technique gives your falafel that golden look and delightful crunch. {{image_2}} If you need a gluten-free option, swap breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives like almond flour or crushed rice crackers. This change keeps the falafel crispy while catering to your dietary needs. For a vegan option, check that all added ingredients are certified vegan, including any sauces you choose to pair with your falafel. You can easily change the flavor of your falafel. For a Mediterranean style, mix in chopped olives and sundried tomatoes. This twist adds a burst of flavor and makes your falafel more exciting. If you like heat, create a spicy version by adding more cayenne pepper or some chopped jalapenos. This will give your falafel a nice kick that spice lovers will enjoy. How you serve your falafel can change the whole meal. You can stuff it in warm pita bread, add it to salads, or even include it in a mezze platter with other tasty bites. Pair your falafel with sauces like tzatziki for a cooling contrast or try a tahini sauce for a nutty flavor. The options are endless, and each serving style adds its own twist to this delicious dish. For the full recipe, check the link provided. You can store any leftover falafel in an airtight container. Keep it in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, freeze the baked falafel. It stays good for up to 3 months. When you're ready to eat, just reheat it. To make your falafel crispy again, use the oven. Heat it at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. This way, it will regain its crunch. Be careful with the microwave. It might make the falafel soft and chewy. You can add leftover falafel to many dishes. Toss them in salads, wraps, or grain bowls for a tasty meal. Crumble falafel over pizza for extra protein. You can even mix it into sauces for a flavor boost. For a full recipe, check out the Crispy Baked Falafel recipe above! To make falafel crispy, start with dry chickpeas, not canned. Soak them overnight. This gives falafel a great texture. When you blend the mixture, do not over-process it. Keep some texture for crunch. Also, use a good amount of olive oil when baking. Finally, flip them halfway through baking for even crispiness. Yes, you can make falafel in advance. Prepare the mixture and form the balls. Then, store them in the fridge for up to two days. You can also freeze them for longer storage. Just bake them straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time. Baked falafel pairs well with many sides. Here are some great options: - Pita bread - Hummus - Tahini sauce - Fresh veggies like cucumbers and tomatoes - A crunchy salad These items add flavor and texture to your meal. Yes, baked falafel is healthier than fried. Baking uses less oil, making it lower in calories. Fried falafel absorbs more oil, adding extra fat. Baked falafel still has great flavor and a nice crunch. It’s a tasty option for health-conscious eaters. You can use canned chickpeas, but the texture may change. Canned chickpeas are softer, so reduce the liquids in your recipe. Drain and rinse them well before blending. You may need to add more breadcrumbs to help the mixture hold together. Leftover baked falafel can last in the fridge for three days. Store them in an airtight container to keep them fresh. For longer storage, freeze them for up to three months. Reheat in the oven to regain their crispiness. Making baked falafel is simple and enjoyable. We covered ingredients like chickpeas, herbs, and spices. You learned how to blend and shape your falafel, then bake them for the perfect texture. With tips for crispiness and flavor variations, your options are endless. Don't forget how to store leftovers and use them in new dishes. Enjoy creating delicious meals that are both healthy and satisfying. It’s time to make your own tasty falafel!$

Savor the flavors of Crispy Baked Falafel with this easy recipe! Made from fresh herbs and simple ingredients like chickpeas and spices, these golden-brown delights are both healthy and delicious. Perfect in pita pockets or served with a salad, they're a crowd-pleaser for any meal. Ready to impress your taste buds? Click through to explore the full recipe and discover tips for a perfect presentation!

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Ingredients

1 cup dried chickpeas, soaked overnight

1 small onion, roughly chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

1 teaspoon ground cumin

1 teaspoon ground coriander

1/2 teaspoon baking powder

1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

Salt and pepper to taste

3 tablespoons olive oil (plus extra for baking)

1/2 cup breadcrumbs (preferably whole wheat)

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Drain and rinse the soaked chickpeas, then transfer them to a food processor.

Add the onion, garlic, parsley, cilantro, cumin, coriander, baking powder, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper to the food processor.

Pulse the mixture until it is finely ground but still has some texture. Be careful not to over-process it into a paste.

Transfer the mixture to a bowl and stir in the olive oil and breadcrumbs until well combined.

Using your hands, form small balls or patties (about 1.5 inches in diameter) and place them on the prepared baking sheet.

Lightly drizzle or brush the tops of the falafel with a bit of olive oil.

Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy on the outside.

Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes | Servings: 4

- Presentation Tips: Serve the falafel in pita pockets with fresh vegetables, tahini sauce, and a sprinkle of extra herbs for a colorful presentation. Enjoy with a side of chopped salad or hummus!