Looking for a delicious and nutritious meal that’s bursting with flavor? Look no further than this fantastic Baked Falafel recipe! Falafel is a popular Middle Eastern dish made from chickpeas, herbs, and spices, typically deep-fried. In this recipe, we’ll be baking them instead for a healthier twist without sacrificing any of the traditional taste. These flavorful falafel patties are crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and the perfect addition to salads, wraps, or as a tasty appetizer. Let’s dive into how to make these delectable baked falafels!
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**Baked Falafel Recipe**
**Ingredients:**
– 2 cans (15 oz each) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 1 small onion, roughly chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
– 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a food processor, combine the chickpeas, onion, garlic, parsley, cilantro, flour, cumin, coriander, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper. Pulse the mixture until it forms a coarse paste but still has some texture.
3. Using your hands, scoop out about 2 tablespoons of the falafel mixture and shape it into a small patty. Repeat with the remaining mixture, placing the patties on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Brush the tops of the falafel patties with olive oil. This will help them turn golden and crispy in the oven.
5. Bake the falafel in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crisp on the outside.
6. Once baked, remove the falafel from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving.
7. Serve the baked falafel with a side of hummus, tzatziki, or tahini sauce for dipping. You can also stuff them into pita bread with fresh veggies and a drizzle of tahini for a delicious falafel sandwich.
Enjoy your homemade baked falafel as a satisfying main dish, appetizer, or snack.
Voila! You’ve just made a batch of scrumptious baked falafel that’s crispy, flavorful, and healthier than the traditional fried version. This recipe is perfect for those looking to enjoy the taste of falafel without the extra grease. Feel free to customize your falafel by adding your favorite spices or herbs to the mix. Whether you’re a fan of Middle Eastern cuisine or simply looking to try something new, these baked falafel patties are sure to be a hit at your next meal!
