If you’ve been searching for the perfect falafel recipe, you’re in the right place! These golden-brown, crispy fritters are a beloved Middle Eastern street food made from ground chickpeas, fresh herbs, and aromatic spices. Whether stuffed in warm pita bread, served on a salad, or dipped in tahini sauce, falafel has become a global favorite. Not only is it plant-based and protein-rich, but it’s also surprisingly easy to make at home.
Why You’ll Love This Falafel Recipe
- Crispy outside, fluffy inside – the texture balance is pure perfection.
- Budget-friendly & plant-based – made with pantry staples and chickpeas, making it ideal for meatless meals.
- Customizable flavors – adjust herbs and spices to suit your taste.
- Perfect for meal prep – great for sandwiches, salads, or wraps throughout the week.
- Healthier than takeout – baked or air-fried options are just as delicious as deep-fried.
Ingredients Needed for Perfect Falafel Recipe
- Chickpeas – the base of falafel; use dried chickpeas soaked overnight for the best texture.
- Fresh parsley & cilantro – bring freshness, color, and authentic flavor.
- Onion & garlic – add depth and boldness to the flavor.
- Ground cumin & coriander – warm spices that give falafel its classic Middle Eastern taste.
- Flour or chickpea flour – helps bind the mixture so it holds together when fried.
- Baking powder – ensures the falafel is light and fluffy inside.
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Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Falafel Recipe
- Soak chickpeas overnight in plenty of water. Drain well before using.
- Blend ingredients – pulse chickpeas, herbs, onion, garlic, and spices in a food processor until coarse (not paste-like).
- Add binder – mix in flour and baking powder until combined. The mixture should hold together when pressed.
- Shape falafel – form small balls or patties using your hands or a falafel scoop.
- Chill mixture – refrigerate for 30 minutes to help firm the falafel.
- Fry until golden – heat oil and cook falafel until crispy outside and soft inside. Alternatively, bake or air-fry for a lighter version.
- Serve – enjoy inside pita bread with tahini, hummus, fresh veggies, or a side salad.
Expert Tip: Don’t use canned chickpeas—your falafel will turn mushy. Always use dried, soaked chickpeas for authentic results.
Recipe Tips & Variations
- Make it spicy – add chili flakes or cayenne pepper for extra heat.
- Gluten-free option – use chickpea flour instead of regular flour.
- Baked falafel – brush lightly with olive oil and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 25–30 minutes.
- Air fryer falafel – cook at 375°F (190°C) for 12–15 minutes for a healthier, crispy bite.
- Flavor twist – mix in roasted red peppers, spinach, or extra herbs for unique variations.
How to Store & Reheat
- Store in the fridge – keep falafel in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freeze for later – freeze uncooked falafel balls on a tray, then store in a bag for up to 3 months.
- Reheat – warm falafel in an oven or air fryer at 350°F (175°C) until heated through and crispy again.
Similar Recipes You Will Love
If you enjoyed this crispy falafel recipe, you’ll love trying out more delicious dishes packed with bold flavors. For a comforting Italian classic, check out this Eggplant Parmesan Recipe. If you’re craving something smoky and savory from the grill, don’t miss these Grilled Ranch Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers. And for a quick veggie-packed snack, these Zucchini Fritters with Garlic Aioli are crispy, flavorful, and perfect for dipping.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I make falafel ahead of time?
Yes! You can shape the falafel mixture and refrigerate it for up to 2 days before frying.
Why is my falafel falling apart?
It may be too wet. Drain chickpeas well and add a little more flour to bind the mixture.
Can I use canned chickpeas?
It’s not recommended—canned chickpeas are too soft and make mushy falafel. Always use dried chickpeas soaked overnight.
Is falafel healthy?
Yes! Falafel is naturally vegan, high in fiber, and packed with plant-based protein. Baking or air-frying makes it even lighter.
There you have it—a simple, authentic, and delicious falafel recipe that’s crispy, flavorful, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it as a snack, in a wrap, or as part of a mezze platter, homemade falafel will quickly become a family favorite.
Try this recipe, and don’t forget to share your experience in the comments below. For more easy, plant-based recipes, follow along for weekly inspiration!
Falafel Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 cup dried chickpeas soaked overnight
- 1 small onion roughly chopped
- 3 garlic cloves
- ½ cup fresh parsley leaves
- ½ cup fresh cilantro leaves
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp ground coriander
- ½ tsp baking powder
- 3 tbsp all-purpose flour or chickpea flour
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- Oil
Instructions
- Drain and rinse soaked chickpeas. Pat dry completely.
- In a food processor, pulse chickpeas, onion, garlic, parsley, and cilantro until coarse. Do not puree.
- Add cumin, coriander, salt, pepper, flour, and baking powder. Pulse until mixture holds together when pressed.
- Transfer mixture to a bowl, cover, and chill for 30 minutes.
- Shape into small balls or patties using damp hands.
- Heat oil in a skillet to 350°F (175°C). Fry falafel in batches until golden brown, 3–4 minutes per side.
- Drain on paper towels. Serve warm with pita, salad, or tahini sauce.