Craving a dish that’s both flavorful and healthy? Look no further! In this post, I’ll guide you through making delicious baked falafel with a creamy tahini sauce. Made from simple ingredients like chickpeas, fresh herbs, and spices, this recipe is not only easy to prepare but also packed with nutrition. Say goodbye to greasy fried falafel and hello to a guilt-free treat you’ll love! Let’s get cooking!
Ingredients
Baked Falafel Ingredients
– 1 can chickpeas
– 1 small onion
– 2 cloves garlic
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup fresh cilantro
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
Tahini Sauce Ingredients
– 1/4 cup tahini
– 2 tablespoons water
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 garlic clove
– Salt to taste
When I make baked falafel, I love using simple and fresh ingredients. The star of this dish is the chickpeas. They give falafel its hearty texture and base flavor. You want to use one can of chickpeas that are well-rinsed and drained. This helps remove excess salt.
Next, I add a small onion and two cloves of garlic. These add great flavor. I roughly chop the onion to help the food processor blend it all well. Then, I throw in fresh herbs: 1/4 cup each of parsley and cilantro. These herbs make the falafel bright and fresh.
For spices, I use ground cumin and ground coriander, each one teaspoon. They bring warmth and a hint of citrus. To help the falafel rise a bit, I add one teaspoon of baking powder. It makes the texture lighter.
I mix in a tablespoon of olive oil and a tablespoon of lemon juice. These add richness and a zesty kick. Finally, season with salt and pepper to taste.
For the crunch, I use 1/2 cup of breadcrumbs. I prefer panko because it gives extra crispiness.
Now let’s talk about the tahini sauce. I start with 1/4 cup of tahini. This gives a creamy texture. Then, I add two tablespoons of water and one tablespoon of lemon juice for brightness. A minced garlic clove adds depth of flavor. Finally, I season with salt for taste.
These ingredients come together to create a tasty and healthy meal.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Set the temperature to 400°F (200°C) for optimal baking. This step is key to getting crispy falafel.
Process the Ingredients
Combine chickpeas, onion, garlic, herbs, spices, baking powder, olive oil, and lemon juice in a food processor. Pulse until mostly smooth, but keep some texture. This gives your falafel that homemade feel.
Mix in Breadcrumbs
Transfer the chickpea mixture to a bowl. Incorporate breadcrumbs gently until well mixed. If it feels too moist, add more breadcrumbs until the mixture holds together.
Shape the Falafel
Using your hands, form small balls or patties. Aim for about 1.5 inches in diameter. Arrange them on a lined baking sheet. This helps them bake evenly.
Bake Until Golden
Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through. You want them golden brown and crispy. This ensures a nice crunch with every bite.
Prepare the Tahini Sauce
Whisk together tahini, water, lemon juice, minced garlic, and salt in a small bowl. Adjust the thickness with more water if needed. A smooth sauce complements the falafel perfectly.
Enjoy crafting your baked falafel with tahini sauce!
Tips & Tricks
Achieving the Perfect Texture
To get the best falafel, do not over-process the chickpeas. You want a mix that stays chunky. This gives the falafel a nice bite. If the mix feels too wet, add more breadcrumbs. Start with a little, then check the mix. It should hold its shape but not be dry.
Baking vs. Frying
Baking falafel is a healthier choice than frying. When you bake, you use less oil. This cuts down on calories and fat. Baked falafel still gets crispy and tasty. Plus, it is easier. You don’t have to stand over a hot stove. Just pop them in the oven and relax!
Enhancing Flavor
Using fresh herbs makes a big difference. Fresh parsley and cilantro add bright notes. Dried herbs are good, but fresh is better. You can also adjust spices to suit your taste. If you love heat, add more cumin or a pinch of cayenne. Experiment to find the mix you like best!
Variations
Gluten-Free Baked Falafel
If you need gluten-free options, you’re in luck! You can replace regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs. Here are some great options:
– Almond flour: This adds a nice nutty flavor.
– Ground oats: Just blend rolled oats until they’re fine.
– Chickpea flour: It enhances the chickpea taste.
These alternatives help maintain texture and flavor in your baked falafel.
Vegan Options
This recipe is already vegan-friendly! You can enjoy these baked falafels without any animal products. They are packed with plant-based protein and flavor. You can serve them with fresh veggies or in a wrap for a tasty meal.
Flavor Additions
Want to spice it up? You can add some extra flavors to your falafel mix. Consider these ideas:
– Paprika: This will add a mild smokiness.
– Cayenne pepper: For those who like it hot, this adds a nice kick.
– Cumin seeds: Whole seeds give a deeper flavor.
Feel free to get creative! Just remember to adjust the amounts to match your taste. Experimenting with spices makes each batch unique and exciting.
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
To store leftover falafel, let them cool completely. Place them in an airtight container. Keep the container in the refrigerator for up to four days. This keeps your falafel fresh and tasty. If you have tahini sauce left, store it separately in another container. It can last about a week in the fridge.
Freezing Instructions
Freezing falafel is easy. First, let your baked falafel cool completely. Then, arrange them on a baking sheet in a single layer. Make sure they do not touch each other. Freeze them for about two hours. After they are firm, transfer the falafel to a freezer bag. Remove as much air as possible before sealing. Label the bag with the date. They can stay in the freezer for up to three months.
Reheating Tips
Reheating falafel can be simple. The best way is to use the oven. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the falafel on a baking sheet. Heat for about 10-15 minutes. This method keeps them crispy. You can also use a microwave, but this may make them soft. If you prefer, reheat them in a skillet with a little oil for extra crispiness. Enjoy your delicious baked falafel!
FAQs
Can I make baked falafel ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare baked falafel in advance! You can shape the falafel and store them in the fridge. Just cover them well to keep them fresh. When ready to cook, bake them straight from the fridge. This saves time and helps when hosting or meal prepping.
What to serve with baked falafel?
Baked falafel pairs well with many options. Consider serving them with fresh pita bread. You can also add a simple salad with cucumbers and tomatoes. Toppings like pickled onions, or a dollop of Greek yogurt enhance the flavor. Serve with hummus for a creamy touch.
How can I make tahini sauce thicker or thinner?
To adjust tahini sauce, add water for a thinner consistency. Start with a tablespoon and mix well. If you want it thicker, add more tahini. You can also include more lemon juice for a zesty kick. Adjust it to your liking!
What is the best way to prevent falafel from falling apart?
To keep your falafel intact, do not over-process the chickpeas. A few chunks add texture and help hold them together. Use breadcrumbs to absorb extra moisture. If the mixture feels too wet, add more breadcrumbs until it holds shape well. Shape them gently; don’t pack too tight.
Baked falafel offers a tasty and healthy option packed with protein and flavor. We covered key ingredients, easy steps to prepare it, tips for perfect texture, and delicious variations. These recipes fit into many diets, and the tahini sauce adds a great touch. Remember, baking keeps it lighter than frying. Enjoy your yummy falafel with your favorite sides. Try different herbs and spices to make it your own.
