The Ultimate Baked Falafel: A Healthier, Flavorful, and Easy Recipe

Craving falafel but looking for a lighter, less messy alternative to the traditional deep-fried version? Look no further! This Baked Falafel recipe is bursting with the vibrant flavors of chickpeas and an abundance of fresh herbs. Each bite delivers a delightful texture and aromatic taste, all achieved by baking them in a savory herbed olive oil blend. It’s the perfect way to enjoy this beloved Middle Eastern staple without the fuss or excess oil of frying.

These crispy, tender falafels are incredibly versatile. Enjoy them simply on their own as a healthy snack, serve them in a hearty falafel bowl with your favorite grains and veggies, tuck them into a warm pita sandwich with fresh toppings, or scatter them atop a refreshing salad. The possibilities for a delicious and satisfying meal are truly endless!

Author’s Note

My Culinary Journey: The Baked Falafel I Fell In Love With In Israel!

During my unforgettable travels through Israel, I truly fell head over heels for falafel. It was everywhere – street vendors, bustling markets, and cozy restaurants. I was so captivated by its unique flavor and texture that I even took local cooking classes to learn the authentic techniques. That incredible experience sparked my desire to recreate the magic of falafel at home, but with a personal twist: a baked version that’s just as incredibly delicious and satisfying as the traditional fried kind, if not more so.

Let’s be honest, baking offers a significant advantage over frying. It’s undeniably easier, requires far less oil, and keeps the kitchen mess to an absolute minimum – a huge bonus for any home cook! This vegetarian recipe masterfully uses a blend of quality olive oil, a secret ingredient in pepperoncini juice, and a symphony of dried herbs to infuse these falafels with layers of complex, irresistible flavor.

This recipe truly represents a beautiful blend of authentic Israeli cooking traditions and a modern, lighter approach to food preparation. It captures the essence of what makes falafel so beloved, while making it more accessible and health-conscious for everyday enjoyment. Trust me, you absolutely have to give this recipe a try. It’s a game-changer!

Why You’ll Love This Healthy Baked Falafel Recipe

While the classic deep-fried falafel holds a special place in culinary history, baking offers numerous advantages that make this recipe a fantastic choice for both health-conscious eaters and busy home cooks:

• Healthier Alternative: By baking instead of frying, we drastically reduce the amount of oil absorbed, resulting in a lighter falafel that’s still rich in flavor but significantly lower in fat and calories. It’s a guilt-free indulgence!
• Easy Preparation & Less Mess: Say goodbye to splattering oil and the lingering smell of fried food. Baking simplifies the cooking process, requiring minimal active attention and making cleanup a breeze.
• Perfectly Crispy Texture: The secret herbed olive oil blend on the baking sheet ensures that these falafels develop a beautifully golden-brown and satisfyingly crisp exterior, while remaining wonderfully tender and moist on the inside. No dry falafel here!
• Rich in Nutrients: Chickpeas are a powerhouse of plant-based protein, dietary fiber, and essential minerals. Combined with fresh herbs and spices, these falafels are not only delicious but also incredibly nutritious.
• Naturally Vegetarian & Vegan-Friendly: This recipe is entirely plant-based, making it suitable for vegetarian, vegan, and Mediterranean diets. It’s a fantastic option for anyone looking to incorporate more wholesome, meat-free meals into their routine.
• Versatile & Customizable: From bowls and wraps to salads and appetizers, these falafels can be adapted to fit any meal or occasion. Plus, you can easily adjust the herbs and spices to match your personal taste preferences.

Essential Ingredients for Your Perfectly Baked Falafel

Crafting exceptional falafel begins with selecting the right ingredients. Each component in this recipe plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect texture and the authentic, vibrant flavor profile we’re aiming for. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need:

• Dried Chickpeas: This is perhaps the most critical ingredient. For the best flavor, texture, and structural integrity of your falafel, you absolutely must use dried chickpeas that have been soaked overnight. Canned chickpeas, while convenient, are too wet and soft, and will not yield the desired firm, yet fluffy, falafel patties. They simply won’t bind properly. For even softer chickpeas that blend beautifully, consider adding ½ teaspoon of baking soda to your soaking water. This helps to break down the chickpea skins, making them easier to process.
• Fresh Herb Blend: A generous amount of fresh herbs is what gives falafel its characteristic bright green color and incredible aroma. Our blend includes 1 cup each of fresh flat-leaf parsley, cilantro, and thinly sliced green onions. Feel free to adjust these quantities or experiment by adding other complementary herbs like fresh dill for an extra layer of flavor.
• Garlic: Fresh garlic is non-negotiable for falafel. We recommend using it generously to infuse a robust, pungent flavor, but you can certainly adjust the amount to suit your personal preference. Six cloves is a good starting point for a flavorful batch.
• Aromatic Seasonings: The spice blend is key to falafel’s savory depth. This recipe calls for classic Middle Eastern spices: ground cumin, paprika, ground coriander, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. These spices create a warm, earthy foundation. If you enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding ¼ to ½ teaspoon of cayenne pepper for a subtle kick that beautifully complements the other flavors.
• Baking Powder: Our secret weapon for a light and airy texture! Just ½ teaspoon of baking powder helps the falafel patties rise slightly and become wonderfully fluffy and less dense, preventing them from turning into hard, dry discs.
• Flour, Olive Oil, and Broth: These ingredients are essential for achieving the perfect consistency and ensuring moisture and flavor. One tablespoon of flour (you can use whole wheat or chickpea flour for a gluten-friendly option, instead of white all-purpose flour) helps bind the mixture together. A tablespoon of olive oil adds richness, and ¼ cup of vegetable broth (or water, or even chicken broth if not strictly vegetarian) provides the necessary liquid for blending and ensures the mixture isn’t too dry.

Step-by-Step: How to Bake Perfect Falafel

Achieving perfectly baked falafel is surprisingly simple, especially when you follow these clear, step-by-step instructions. The key lies in proper preparation and a watchful eye during baking.

1. Soak Chickpeas (The Essential First Step): Begin by placing your dried chickpeas in a large bowl, ensuring there’s ample room for them to expand. Cover them with plenty of cold water, at least 3-4 inches above the chickpeas. Let them soak overnight for 8 to 12 hours, or until they are tender when squeezed. For convenience, they can soak for up to 2 days; just make sure to keep them covered and refrigerated for extended soaking times to prevent spoilage.
2. Blend the Flavorful Mixture: Once your chickpeas are perfectly soaked, drain them thoroughly – excess water is the enemy of crispy falafel! Transfer the drained chickpeas to a large food processor. Add the coarsely chopped fresh parsley, cilantro, and thinly sliced green onions. Follow with the chopped garlic cloves, ground cumin, paprika, pepper, ground coriander, baking powder, salt, flour, a tablespoon of olive oil, and vegetable broth. Pulse the mixture on high speed for 3-5 minutes, periodically stopping to scrape down the sides of the food processor bowl with a spatula. Continue blending until the chickpeas are well broken down, the herbs are finely incorporated, and the mixture resembles a coarse meal – it should be sticky enough to form a patty but not a smooth paste.
3. Prepare Your Herbed Baking Tray: Select a large sheet pan (preferably 15″ x 10″) and set it aside. In a small bowl, whisk together the ¼ cup olive oil, ¼ cup jarred pepperoncini liquid (this is our secret ingredient for an amazing tangy kick and moistness!), ½ teaspoon garlic powder, ½ teaspoon dried oregano, and ¼ teaspoon pepper. Pour this aromatic oil blend onto the sheet pan. Gently tilt the tray in all directions until the mixture evenly coats the entire bottom surface of the pan. This herbed oil will give your falafels an incredible crust and flavor.
4. Form the Falafel Patties: Using a ⅛-cup measuring cup as a guide for consistent sizing, scoop portions of the falafel mixture. Gently shape each portion into a flat disc, aiming for about ½-inch thick and 2 inches wide. If you find the mixture is too sticky or difficult to work with, simply cover the bowl and refrigerate it for 20-30 minutes; this will help it firm up. Carefully place the formed patties onto the prepared oiled baking tray, ensuring they are not touching. You should be able to make approximately 20-22 falafel patties from this recipe.
5. Bake to Golden Perfection: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Once hot, place the tray of falafel patties into the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. The key to even crispiness is to flip them halfway through the baking process. After about 15 minutes, remove the pan from the oven and, using a metal spatula, carefully turn each falafel patty over to the other side. Return the tray to the oven and continue baking until both sides are beautifully golden brown and crispy.
6. Serve Hot and Store Smartly: Your baked falafels are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven! Serve them immediately with your sauce of choice and your preferred accompaniments. Any leftover falafel can be stored following our tips below.

Creative Ways to Serve Your Homemade Baked Falafel

One of the many joys of falafel is its incredible versatility. These homemade baked falafel patties are fantastic on their own, but they truly shine when incorporated into a variety of dishes. Here are some of our favorite, most delicious ways to serve them, transforming them into a complete and satisfying meal:

• Build Your Own Falafel Bowl: This is a fantastic option for a wholesome and customizable meal. Start with a base of fluffy couscous, fragrant rice, or a vibrant quinoa salad. Add your warm baked falafel patties, then load up on fresh toppings. Think crisp chopped cherry tomatoes, thinly sliced Persian cucumbers, briny Kalamata olives, sharp red onions, crumbled feta cheese (if not strictly vegan), and warm pita bread wedges. Drizzle generously with classic Mediterranean sauces like creamy hummus or refreshing tzatziki for an explosion of flavors and textures.
• Stuff Them in a Wrap or Pita: Create a classic falafel sandwich or wrap by tucking your baked falafel patties into a soft pita bread or a large tortilla. Add crisp lettuce, juicy cherry tomatoes, your favorite assorted fresh veggies (like shredded carrots or bell peppers), a sprinkle of feta, and a generous dollop of creamy hummus or tangy tzatziki sauce. It’s a portable and satisfying meal perfect for lunch or a quick dinner.
• Elevate Your Salad: Transform any ordinary salad into an extraordinary one by adding these flavorful falafel patties. They are an especially wonderful addition to a crisp Greek salad, providing a hearty, protein-rich element that complements the briny olives, fresh vegetables, and tangy dressing.
• As an Irresistible Appetizer or Mezze Item: Serve baked falafel on a platter as part of a Mediterranean mezze spread, or simply as a delightful appetizer. Arrange them beautifully with a variety of dipping sauces, such as classic hummus, cool tzatziki, smoky baba ghanoush, or a rich, nutty tahini sauce. Garnish with fresh parsley and lemon wedges for an appealing presentation.

Explore More Delicious Vegetarian Recipes

If you loved this healthy and flavorful baked falafel recipe, you’re in for a treat! We have a wide array of other incredible vegetarian dishes that are just as easy to make and packed with goodness. Expand your plant-based culinary repertoire with these enticing options:

• Hearty Quinoa Vegetarian Enchiladas
• Flavorful Indian-Inspired Vegetable Curry
• Comforting and Wholesome Vegetable Soup
• Classic Vegetarian Shepherd’s Pie with a Twist
• Quick and Easy Vegetarian Tacos for Taco Night

Pin
Print

5 from 1 vote

Baked Falafel

By
Chelsea Lords

Baked Falafel, packed with herbs and chickpeas, is full of nutritious ingredients and vibrant flavor, all baked in a delicious olive oil and herb blend.

Prep Time:
25 minutes minutes

Cook Time:
30 minutes minutes

Total Time:
55 minutes minutes

Servings:

20
falafels

Equipment

• Food processor
• Sheet pan (15″ x 10″)

Ingredients

Servings: 20 falafels

Unit System: US (Metric available upon request)

Falafels

• ▢ 1-1/4 cups dried chickpeas
• ▢ 1 cup coarsely chopped flat-leaf parsley
• ▢ 1 cup coarsely chopped cilantro
• ▢ 1 cup thinly sliced green onions
• ▢ 6 cloves garlic coarsely chopped
• ▢ 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• ▢ 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• ▢ 1/2 teaspoon pepper
• ▢ 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
• ▢ 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• ▢ 1-1/2 teaspoons salt
• ▢ 1 tablespoon flour
• ▢ 1 tablespoon olive oil
• ▢ 1/4 cup vegetable broth or water

On the tray

• ▢ 1/4 cup jarred pepperoncinis liquid
• ▢ 1/4 cup olive oil
• ▢ 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• ▢ 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• ▢ 1/4 teaspoon pepper

Instructions

• Place chickpeas in a large bowl, with plenty of room for expansion, and add lots of cold water. Leave out to soak overnight, about 8–12 hours or until tender. They can soak for up to 2 days—just keep them covered in the fridge for longer periods of time.
• Preheat oven to 375°F. Drain chickpeas well and add to a large food processor. Add in parsley, cilantro, and green onions. Add chopped garlic cloves, cumin, paprika, pepper, coriander, baking powder, salt, flour, olive oil, and broth. Pulse for 3–5 minutes on high speed, scraping down the sides as needed. Blend until chickpeas are broken down and herbs are well incorporated.
• Set out a large sheet pan. In a small bowl stir together the olive oil, pepperoncini liquid, garlic powder, oregano, and pepper. Whisk and then pour on the sheet pan. Tip the tray until the mixture coats the bottom of the pan. Set aside.
• Using a 1/8-cup measuring cup, scoop the dough and shape into discs about 1/2-inch thick and 2 inches wide. If the mixture is too hard to work with, refrigerate it for 20–30 minutes. Place the patties on the oiled tray. You should get about 20–22 falafel patties.
• Bake for 25–30 minutes. After 15 minutes, remove the pan and turn all the patties to the other side using a metal spatula. Patties should be golden brown on both sides.
• Serve fresh out of the oven with sauce of choice. Make falafel wraps or bowls (see note 1).

Recipe Notes

Note 1: There are lots of ways to enjoy Baked Falafel! My favorite is in a falafel bowl with red pepper hummus and tzatziki sauce. You can find my favorite tzatziki sauce in this Greek chicken recipe.

• In a falafel bowl: Start with a base of cooked couscous, rice, veggies, or a salad. Add the Baked Falafel patties and any other toppings such as chopped cherry tomatoes, sliced Persian cucumbers, halved Kalamata olives, thinly sliced red onions, feta cheese, and toasted pita bread. Add sauces such as hummus, tzatziki, baba ghanoush, or tahini sauce.
• In a wrap: Fill a large pita or tortilla with lettuce, cherry tomatoes, veggies, feta cheese, and sauce; I suggest hummus or tzatiziki.
• In a salad: I love this Greek salad with a few falafel patties added in.
• As an appetizer: Serve falafel with a variety sauces to dip in! Use sauces like hummus, tzatziki, baba ghanoush, or tahini.

Storage: Baked Falafel stores well in the fridge for up to 4 days, or in the freezer for 3 months.

Nutrition

Serving: 1falafel |
Calories: 90kcal |
Carbohydrates: 10g |
Protein: 3g |
Fat: 4g |
Saturated Fat: 1g |
Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g |
Monounsaturated Fat: 3g |
Sodium: 181mg |
Potassium: 172mg |
Fiber: 3g |
Sugar: 2g |
Vitamin A: 368IU |
Vitamin C: 6mg |
Calcium: 26mg |
Iron: 1mg

Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.

Like this? Leave a comment below!