Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F). Line a baking tray with parchment paper and lightly brush it with olive oil.
- Drain the soaked chickpeas well and do not cook them.
- In a food processor, combine chickpeas, chopped onion, garlic, parsley, cilantro, cumin, coriander, salt, black pepper, baking powder, and lemon juice. Process until you get a coarse, sticky mixture. Do not over-process; small bits should remain.
- Drizzle in 1 tablespoon of olive oil and pulse just to mix.
- Shape the mixture into small balls or patties, about the size of a walnut. Place them on the prepared baking tray.
- Brush the tops of the falafel balls lightly with the remaining tablespoon of olive oil for a crispier finish.
- Bake for 20 minutes, then flip the falafel balls and bake for another 10 minutes, or until they are golden and crispy.
- Serve hot with tahini, hummus, fresh salad, or inside pita bread.
Notes
Falafel is beloved across the globe as a delicious, protein-packed star of Middle Eastern cuisine. Its versatility makes it equally perfect as a snack, a lunchbox addition, or the centerpiece of a colorful dinner spread. Baking falafel instead of frying offers a lighter alternative that keeps the outside crisply golden without the need for deep oil.
Practical Tips and Tricks
- Soaking the chickpeas: For truly authentic texture, always start with dried chickpeas and soak them overnight. Avoid canned chickpeas, as they create a mushy mixture that doesn’t hold together well.
- Avoid Over-processing: When blending the mixture, stop while it’s still somewhat coarse. Over-mixing leads to dense falafel instead of the ideal fluffy interior.
- If your mixture is too wet, add a spoonful of chickpea flour or even a sprinkle of regular flour to help shape the balls easily.
- Prefer an even crisp? Turning the falafel halfway through baking and brushing them lightly with olive oil ensures a golden, crunchy surface on all sides.
Flavor Variations and Serving Suggestions
- Toss in extra herbs like mint or dill for a bright flavor twist.
- Spice lovers can add a pinch of cayenne or crushed chili flakes for more heat.
- Serve your falafel with creamy tahini sauce, fresh tabbouleh, and crunchy pickles. It’s delicious tucked into warm pita with lettuce, tomatoes, and red onions.
- Try it as a protein topping on grain bowls or salads for a healthy meal prep option.