Crispy & Flavorful Falafels
Description
This authentic vegan falafel recipe delivers crispy, golden bites of deliciousness! Packed with protein-rich chickpeas, fresh herbs, and bold spices, these falafels are perfect for stuffing into pita, tossing on salads, or enjoying as a snack with tahini sauce.
Ingredients:
1 ½ cups dried chickpeas (do not use canned)
½ cup fresh parsley, chopped
½ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
½ small red onion, chopped
4 garlic cloves, minced
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon ground coriander
½ teaspoon ground black pepper
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon baking soda
2 tablespoons chickpea flour (or all-purpose flour)
1 tablespoon lemon juice
2 tablespoons sesame seeds (optional, for texture)
4 tablespoons water (if needed)
Oil for frying (such as avocado or vegetable oil)
Instructions:
Soak the Chickpeas: Place dried chickpeas in a large bowl and cover with plenty of water. Soak for at least 12 hours or overnight. Drain and rinse.
Blend the Mixture: In a food processor, combine soaked chickpeas, parsley, cilantro, onion, garlic, cumin, coriander, black pepper, salt, baking soda, chickpea flour, lemon juice, and sesame seeds. Pulse until a coarse, grainy mixture forms. Scrape down the sides as needed.
Adjust Consistency: If the mixture is too dry, add 1 tablespoon of water at a time until it holds together when pressed.
Chill the Mixture: Transfer to a bowl, cover, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This helps with binding.
Shape the Falafel: Scoop small portions (about 1 ½ tablespoons each) and form into round balls or slightly flattened patties.
Fry the Falafel: Heat oil in a deep pan over medium heat. Fry falafels in batches for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy. Remove and drain on a paper towel.
Serve: Enjoy warm with pita, hummus, or tahini sauce!
Nutritional Information (Per Serving - Approx. 4 Falafels)
Calories: 220
Protein: 8g
Carbohydrates: 25g
Fat: 10g
Fiber: 6g
Sugar: 2g
I first fell in love with falafel while wandering through the vibrant streets of the Middle East. The aroma of freshly fried falafel, sizzling in bubbling oil, instantly pulled me toward the nearest street vendor. That first bite—crispy on the outside, tender and herbaceous on the inside—was pure magic. Since then, I’ve spent years perfecting my own falafel recipe to capture that authentic flavor while keeping it simple and 100% plant-based. Today, I’m thrilled to share my tried-and-true method for making the best vegan falafel at home!
This homemade falafel is everything you want—crispy, herby, and satisfying. Whether you’re meal-prepping, feeding a crowd, or just craving a healthy, protein-packed snack, these falafels deliver. Say goodbye to dry, bland falafels and hello to fresh, flavorful bites of goodness!
Enjoy & Happy Cooking!
The Importance of Each Ingredient
Chickpeas: The base ingredient, packed with protein and fiber.
Fresh Herbs (Parsley & Cilantro): Adds freshness, color, and authentic Mediterranean flavor.
Onion & Garlic: Enhance depth and savory notes.
Cumin & Coriander: Traditional spices that give falafel its warm, aromatic flavor.
Black Pepper & Salt: Balance and enhance the overall taste.
Baking Soda: Helps lighten the texture, making falafel airy and tender.
Chickpea Flour: Acts as a binding agent to hold the falafel together.
Lemon Juice: Adds brightness and enhances the flavor of the herbs.
Sesame Seeds: Adds crunch and a subtle nutty taste.
Cooking Tips
Use Dried Chickpeas: Canned chickpeas will make the mixture too wet, resulting in falafel that falls apart.
Don’t Overprocess: The mixture should be slightly coarse, not a paste, to maintain texture.
Chill the Mixture: This prevents the falafel from crumbling while frying.
Fry at the Right Temperature: If the oil is too hot, the outside will burn before the inside is fully cooked. If too cool, the falafel will absorb oil and become greasy.
Try Baking or Air-Frying: For a lower-fat option, bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25 minutes, flipping halfway, or air-fry at 375°F for 12-15 minutes.
Why This Recipe is the Best
Crispy on the Outside, Fluffy on the Inside: A perfect texture balance thanks to the soaking method and chickpea flour.
Bursting with Flavor: Fresh herbs and warm spices make each bite vibrant and aromatic.
Authentic Yet Simple: Classic falafel flavors made easy at home.
Versatile: Enjoy in a wrap, on a salad, or as a protein-packed snack.
Crispy & Flavorful Falafels
Author: Purely Plant Plates
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4-6 servings
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About Purely Plant Plates
Purely Plant Plates – A Nourishing Food Blog
Purely Plant Plates is a comprehensive food blog dedicated to plant-based living, offering a wealth of delicious and nutritious vegan recipes, expert baking tips, and in-depth nutritional insights. Whether you're a long-time vegan, exploring plant-based eating for the first time, or simply looking to incorporate more wholesome, animal-free meals into your diet, this blog is your go-to resource for all things vegan cooking.
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