Description
Mediterranean-inspired baked falafel delivers crispy, herb-packed goodness without deep-frying. Quick and healthy chickpea patties bring authentic Middle Eastern flavors straight to your kitchen, ensuring you savor each protein-rich, aromatic bite.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 1 can (15 ounces / 425 grams) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 4 tablespoons oat flour (or any flour)
- 3 garlic cloves
Fresh Herbs and Aromatics:
- ½ cup fresh cilantro (or parsley)
- ⅓ cup shallots, roughly chopped
Spices and Seasonings:
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- ¼ teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the oven by heating to 375°F (190°C) and lightly coat a baking sheet with cooking spray or olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Combine drained and rinsed canned chickpeas, finely chopped shallots, minced garlic, fresh chopped cilantro, kosher salt, ground cumin, lemon zest, ground coriander, cayenne pepper, and oat flour in a food processor.
- Pulse the ingredients until they form a coarse, slightly sticky mixture that holds together when pressed, being careful not to over-process into a smooth paste.
- Using clean hands, shape the chickpea mixture into small uniform patties or compact round balls, approximately 2 inches (5 centimeters) in diameter.
- Arrange the falafel pieces on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are evenly spaced and not touching each other.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, then carefully flip each falafel to ensure even browning and continue baking for an additional 10-12 minutes until they develop a crispy, golden-brown exterior.
- Remove from the oven and let the falafel rest for 2-3 minutes to firm up slightly before serving.
- Serve warm inside soft pita bread, accompanied by fresh lettuce, tangy pickled onions, ripe tomatoes, creamy tzatziki sauce, and additional hummus for a complete Mediterranean-inspired meal.
Notes
- Keep falafel mixture slightly coarse for better texture and authentic street food feel.
- Avoid over-processing ingredients to maintain chunky chickpea consistency.
- Store leftover falafel in airtight container for 3-4 days in refrigerator.
- Freeze uncooked falafel patties between parchment paper for quick future meals.
- Let falafel cool 5 minutes before serving to help them firm up and hold shape.
- Pat chickpeas dry with paper towel before processing to prevent soggy results.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 220 kcal
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 580mg
- Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 10g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 0mg