Easy Falafel

Falafel frying in a pan fills the kitchen with an irresistible aroma, hinting at the crispy, flavorful bites to come. This Easy Falafel recipe takes just under an hour from start to finish and offers a delightful way to enjoy a plant-based meal that doesn’t skimp on taste. The secret to its success lies in the fresh herbs and spices that come together to create a vibrant, crunchy exterior and a soft interior.

This recipe is perfect for anyone looking to incorporate more vegetarian options into their meals, whether you’re preparing a weekly dinner or hosting friends. You can prepare the falafel mixture a day in advance, allowing the flavors to meld, and store it in the fridge until ready to fry or bake.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• It’s quick and easy to prepare, taking less than an hour.
• The combination of herbs delivers a fresh and satisfying flavor.
• Crispy on the outside and tender inside, these falafel are a delight.
• They are versatile and perfect for wraps, salads, or snacking.

What You’ll Need

Here’s a list of everything you need for this Easy Falafel recipe:

For the Falafel

• 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 1/2 onion, chopped
• 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp coriander
• 1/2 tsp baking powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

For Cooking

• Oil for frying (or cooking spray for baking)

Note: Using fresh herbs enhances the flavor.

Substitutions & Swaps

• Canned chickpeas can be replaced with cooked dried chickpeas.
• Use green onion instead of onion for a milder taste.
• Swap fresh herbs with dried herbs (use less).
• For gluten-free, ensure your baking powder is certified gluten-free.

How to Make It

Here’s how to prepare your falafel:

Process ingredients

In a food processor, combine the chickpeas, onion, garlic, parsley, cilantro, cumin, coriander, baking powder, salt, and pepper. Blend until a coarse mixture forms.

Shape mixture

Form the mixture into balls or patties, ensuring they hold together well.

Cook falafel

For frying: Heat oil in a pan over medium heat and add the falafel. Fry until golden brown on all sides. For baking: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C), place the falafel on a baking sheet, spray with cooking spray, and bake for about 25 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Serve warm

Serve warm in wraps, pitas, or salad for a delicious and filling meal.

How to Store It

Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Yes, they freeze well for later use.
Reheat: Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.

Tips for Best Results

• Make sure the chickpeas are well-drained to prevent a soggy mixture.
• Allow the mixture to rest for at least 20 minutes before cooking for better texture.
• Adjust seasoning to your taste for maximum flavor.
• Ensure the oil is hot enough before frying to achieve that crispy exterior.

Serving Suggestions

• Wrap with pita and fresh veggies for a hearty lunch.
• Serve on a bed of greens with tahini dressing for a healthy dinner.
• Enjoy as a snack with hummus or your favorite dip.