Crispy Baked Falafel

baking powder

🥗Healthier: baking soda

💰Cheaper: none

Baking soda can provide a similar leavening effect.

flour

🥗Healthier: whole wheat flour

💰Cheaper: none

Whole wheat flour adds fiber and nutrients.

olive oil

🥗Healthier: avocado oil

💰Cheaper: canola oil

Canola oil is often less expensive and has a neutral flavor.

sesame seeds

🥗Healthier: none

💰Cheaper: sunflower seeds

Sunflower seeds can provide a similar crunch.

Place dried chickpeas in a large bowl. Pour over enough water to cover by two inches. Cover bowl and allow to sit at room temperature for at least 4 hours or up to overnight. Drain and pat dry.

Preheat oven to 400F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

In a food processor, combine drained chickpeas, onion, garlic, herbs, spices, salt and pepper. Pulse and process until finely ground. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil, flour and baking powder. Pulse to combine. Wipe down sides of bowl and stir in any unincorporated flour. Do not over-mix into a puree. If you only have a small food processor like me, make in two batches and then stir batches together to evenly combine ingredients.

Coat parchment-lined baking sheet with remaining ¼ cup (4 tablespoons) of olive oil. Spread evenly on surface. Using a ¼ cup ice cream scoop, scoop into falafel rounds 1-2 inches apart on prepared pan. You may use a smaller ice cream scoop or spoon of choice. Do not tightly pack mixture into scooper or falafel will be too dense. Flatten and shape into about ¾ inch rounds.

Bake on center rack of oven for 12-15 minutes, or until well-browned on bottom side. Remove pan from oven and carefully flip falafel using a small offset spatula. Return to oven and cook an additional 12-15 minutes, or until well-browned on opposite side and cooked through. Season lightly with additional salt on top while hot.

While falafel cook, make the sauce. Combine yogurt, tahini, garlic, water (if using), lemon juice and salt in food processor and blend until smooth and well-combined. For a thinner sauce, add water a teaspoon at a time until you reach desired consistency. Taste and adjust seasoning, if needed.

Serve falafel sandwich-style in pita bread with lettuce, sliced tomato and tahini yogurt sauce. You may also serve over a salad or with rice. Enjoy.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Dietary

Allergens