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To make crispy baked falafel, you need a few simple ingredients. Each one brings flavor and nutrition to this dish. Here’s what you will need: - 1 cup dried chickpeas (soaked overnight) - 1 small onion, 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 - Salt and pepper to taste - 3 tablespoons olive oil - Optional: pita bread, hummus, and fresh vegetables for serving Each ingredient plays a key role. The chickpeas are the base and provide protein. Onion and garlic add depth. Herbs like parsley and cilantro bring freshness. Cumin and coriander give warmth. Baking powder helps with texture, making them crispy. Olive oil ensures a golden finish and adds flavor. You can serve these falafels with pita bread, hummus, and fresh veggies. This full recipe makes for a perfect snack or meal. Enjoy! 1. Preheat the oven and prepare the baking sheet: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This helps the falafel cook evenly and not stick. 2. Drain and rinse the soaked chickpeas: After soaking your chickpeas overnight, drain them and rinse under cold water. This step removes any dirt and makes them ready for blending. 3. Combine ingredients in a food processor: In your food processor, add the drained chickpeas, chopped onion, minced garlic, parsley, cilantro, cumin, coriander, baking powder, salt, and pepper. These flavors mix to create a tasty falafel. 1. Pulse to achieve the right texture: Blend the mixture until it is coarse and grainy. It should hold together when you press it but still have some texture. 2. Let the mixture rest: Transfer the blend to a bowl. Allow it to rest for about 30 minutes. This rest helps the falafel firm up, making it easier to shape. 1. Shape into balls or patties: Use wet hands to form small balls or patties from the mixture. Aim for the size of a golf ball. Place them on the prepared baking sheet. 2. Coat with olive oil and bake: Drizzle olive oil over the falafel, ensuring they are well-coated. Bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway. They should be golden and crispy when done. You can find the full recipe to guide you through each step in detail. To get crispy baked falafel, start by soaking your dried chickpeas. Soaking makes them soft and helps them blend well. If you skip this step, your falafel can end up dry and crumbly. Aim to soak them overnight for best results. Using olive oil is key for a great texture. It coats the falafel and helps them crisp up in the oven. I drizzle about three tablespoons over the formed falafel. This gives them a golden finish and enhances their flavor. Serving your crispy falafel with pita bread and fresh vegetables is a fantastic idea. I love to fill warm pita with falafel, sliced cucumbers, and juicy tomatoes. You can also add hummus for a creamy touch. Garnishing with fresh herbs, like parsley or cilantro, boosts both flavor and presentation. A squeeze of lemon juice adds a nice zing that complements the falafel perfectly. One common mistake is overprocessing the chickpea mixture. You want a coarse texture, not a smooth paste. Overprocessing can lead to tough falafel that doesn’t hold together. Another mistake is not letting the mixture rest. Resting for about 30 minutes helps it firm up. Skipping this step can make it hard to shape the falafel, resulting in a mushy texture. For the full recipe, check out the complete instructions above! {{image_2}} If you want to make crispy baked falafel fit your needs, there are easy swaps. - Gluten-free substitutions: Use chickpeas as the main ingredient. They are naturally gluten-free. For binding, you can use ground oats instead of breadcrumbs, or a gluten-free flour blend. This keeps your falafel tasty and safe for gluten-sensitive friends. - Vegan adaptations: Luckily, falafel is already vegan! There’s no meat or dairy here. Just ensure all your additional dips and sauces are vegan too. You can enjoy tahini or a yogurt-free sauce made from cashews. Adding flavors makes your falafel pop. You don’t need to stick to the basics. - Additions like spices or herbs: Experiment with spices! Try smoked paprika for a smoky kick. Fresh herbs like dill or mint can add a refreshing taste. You can also mix in some chili flakes for heat. - Suggestions for sauces or dips: Pair your falafel with sauces for extra flavor. Tahini sauce is a classic, but you can also try a spicy harissa dip or a cool cucumber yogurt sauce. Each adds a unique twist. You can cook falafel in different ways for fun options. - Air fryer alternatives: If you want a healthier method, try an air fryer. It gives a crispy outside without much oil. Cook the falafel at 375°F for about 15 minutes. Flip halfway for even cooking. - Pan-frying suggestions for texture: For a rich flavor, pan-fry your falafel in a bit of olive oil. Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a layer of oil. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown. This method gives a great crunch. Remember, you can try many twists on this recipe. Whether you follow the Full Recipe or mix it up, enjoy the process! To keep your falafel fresh, store them in the fridge. Place the falafel in an airtight container. They will stay good for about 3-5 days. If you want to save them for longer, freezing is a great option. To freeze falafel, first, let them cool completely. Arrange the falafel in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag. This way, they won’t stick together. You can keep them frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat your falafel and keep them crispy, use the oven. Preheat it to 375°F (190°C). Place the falafel on a baking sheet and bake for about 10-15 minutes. Flip them halfway through for even heating. Avoid using the microwave, as it can make the falafel soggy. If you must use it, heat them on a low setting for a short time. Always check to ensure they are warm throughout. By following these tips, your crispy baked falafel will taste fresh and delicious every time. For the full recipe, check out the Crispy Baked Falafel section. To make falafel crispy in the oven, start by soaking the chickpeas overnight. This step helps them absorb water and become soft. Once you blend the chickpeas, make sure you add enough olive oil. The oil helps with browning. Here are some tips to enhance browning: - Preheat your oven to 400°F. A hot oven cooks the falafel quickly. - Form smaller balls for better heat exposure. Smaller pieces crisp up faster. - Flip the falafel halfway through baking for even browning. These steps will help you get that perfect, crispy texture without frying. Yes, you can use canned chickpeas! They save time and are easy to use. However, there are pros and cons to consider. Pros of canned chickpeas: - They are fast and ready to use. - No need to soak them overnight. Cons of canned chickpeas: - They can be softer, making it hard to achieve a crispy texture. - They may contain added salt, which can affect your seasoning. Choosing between canned or dried chickpeas depends on your time and texture goals. Crispy baked falafel pairs well with many sides. Here are some great options: - Pita bread: Soft and perfect for wrapping falafel. - Hummus: Creamy and adds flavor. - Fresh vegetables: Lettuce, cucumber, and tomatoes bring crunch and freshness. - Tahini sauce: It adds a nutty taste that complements the falafel. These sides make your meal balanced and tasty. You can find the full recipe for crispy baked falafel to enjoy these dishes together. Making falafel can be simple and fun. We explored key ingredients, preparation steps, and tips for crispiness. Remember to soak your chickpeas and let your mixture rest. You can also try different flavors and cooking methods. Store leftovers properly and reheat to keep them crispy. With this guide, you can create tasty falafel at home. Enjoy your cooking journey and share your delicious results with others!

Crispy Baked Falafel

Discover the perfect crispy baked falafel recipe that's both delicious and healthy! Made from simple ingredients like chickpeas, fresh herbs, and spices, this easy recipe will elevate your meals. Enjoy crispy falafel in pita bread with veggies and tahini or serve with hummus for a delightful snack. Ready in just one hour, it's perfect for meal prep or a quick dinner. Click through to explore this delectable recipe and impress your family and friends!
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Ingredients
  

1 cup dried chickpeas (soaked overnight)

1 small onion, 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

Salt and pepper to taste

3 tablespoons olive oil

Optional: pita bread, hummus, and fresh vegetables for serving

Instructions
 

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

    Drain and rinse the soaked chickpeas, then add them to a food processor along with the chopped onion, garlic, parsley, cilantro, ground cumin, ground coriander, baking powder, salt, and pepper.

      Pulse the mixture until it forms a coarse, grainy texture. Be careful not to over-process; the mixture should hold together when pressed but still have some texture.

        Transfer the mixture to a bowl and let it rest for about 30 minutes to firm up.

          Using wet hands, form small balls or patties from the chickpea mixture, about the size of a golf ball, and place them on the prepared baking sheet.

            Drizzle the falafel with olive oil, making sure they’re well-coated for that crispy finish.

              Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside.

                Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.

                  Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour | Servings: 4

                    - Presentation Tips: Serve the crispy falafel in pita bread with a drizzle of tahini sauce, and garnish with sliced cucumbers, tomatoes, and a sprinkle of extra parsley for a vibrant touch.