How to Make Crispy Baked Falafel Recipe with Chickpeas and Herbs

Imagine biting into a perfectly crispy, golden-brown falafel, bursting with the flavors of fresh herbs and chickpeas. The crunch, the warmth, the explosion of taste—it's a culinary experience that transports you to the bustling streets of the Middle East. But you don't need a plane ticket to enjoy this delight; you can make it right in your own kitchen. Today, we're diving into the world of homemade falafel, specifically the oven-baked variety that's not only delicious but also healthier. Let's get started!

Ingredients: The Foundation of Your Falafel

Before we dive into the recipe, let's gather our ingredients. For our crispy baked falafel recipe with chickpeas and herbs, you'll need:

• 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 1 small onion, roughly chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp ground coriander
• 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 2 tbsp olive oil

Preparation: The Art of Blending

The key to a great homemade falafel is in the preparation. Start by draining and rinsing your chickpeas. Then, combine them with the onion, garlic, parsley, and cilantro in a food processor. Pulse until the mixture is coarsely chopped but not pureed. You want some texture, not a smooth paste.

Next, add the cumin, coriander, baking powder, salt, and pepper. Pulse again to combine. Finally, add the flour and olive oil, pulsing until the mixture comes together. If it's too dry, add a bit more oil; if it's too wet, add a bit more flour.

Shaping: The Perfect Falafel Form

Once your mixture is ready, it's time to shape your falafels. Using a tablespoon or a small ice cream scoop, form the mixture into small balls. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. You should get about 12-15 falafels from this recipe.

Baking: The Secret to Crispy Perfection

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it's heating up, place your baking sheet with the falafels in the refrigerator to chill for about 10 minutes. This helps them hold their shape during baking.

Once the oven is hot, bake the falafels for 25-30 minutes, flipping them halfway through. They should be golden brown and crispy on the outside. If you're unsure, you can check one by cutting it in half. The inside should be cooked through but still slightly moist.

Serving: The Finishing Touches

Your oven-baked falafel is now ready to be enjoyed. You can serve them in a variety of ways: stuffed into pita bread with tahini sauce, as part of a mezze platter with hummus and baba ganoush, or even on top of a salad. The possibilities are endless!

Tips for the Perfect Crispy Baked Falafel

1. Use Dried Chickpeas: For the best texture, use dried chickpeas that have been soaked overnight. Canned chickpeas work in a pinch, but they can make the falafel a bit denser.
2. Don't Overprocess: Be careful not to overprocess the mixture in the food processor. You want some texture, not a smooth paste.
3. Chill Before Baking: Chilling the falafels before baking helps them hold their shape and prevents them from falling apart.
4. Flip Halfway Through: Flipping the falafels halfway through baking ensures they cook evenly and get crispy on all sides.

Conclusion: Your Journey to Falafel Perfection

Congratulations! You've just made a delicious, crispy baked falafel recipe with chickpeas and herbs. This vegetarian falafel is not only a healthier alternative to the traditional fried version but also packed with flavor. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe is sure to impress.

So, what are you waiting for? Get cooking and share your culinary masterpiece with friends and family. And remember, the best part about homemade falafel is that you can customize it to your liking. Add more herbs, spices, or even some heat with a pinch of cayenne pepper. The world of falafel is your oyster!

FAQs

1. Can I use canned chickpeas instead of dried? Yes, you can use canned chickpeas, but the texture might be slightly different. For the best results, use dried chickpeas that have been soaked overnight.

2. How do I store leftover falafel? Store leftover falafel in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. You can reheat them in the oven at 350°F (180°C) for about 10 minutes.

3. Can I freeze falafel? Yes, you can freeze falafel. Place them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to an airtight container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.

4. What can I serve with falafel? Falafel can be served with a variety of sides and sauces. Try them with tahini sauce, hummus, baba ganoush, or stuffed into pita bread with fresh vegetables.

5. Can I make falafel without a food processor? While a food processor makes the process easier, you can also use a blender or even mash the ingredients by hand. It might take a bit more effort, but it's definitely doable.

Share this post