Crispy Falafel Bites Recipe
Description:
Crispy on the outside, soft and flavorful on the inside, these Falafel Bites are made from chickpeas, fresh herbs, and spices, then pan-fried or baked until golden brown. Perfect as a protein-packed snack, appetizer, or part of a mezze platter. Naturally vegan and gluten-free, they are always a crowd-pleaser at parties or gatherings!
Total Time:
Prep time: 15 minutes
Soaking time: 12 hours (overnight)
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: ~12 hours 30 minutes (including soaking)Servings:
Makes about 24 bite-sized falafel
Ingredients:
1 cup dried chickpeas (do not use canned!)
1 small onion, roughly chopped
3 cloves garlic
1 cup fresh parsley
1 cup fresh cilantro
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp ground coriander
½ tsp baking powder
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper
2 tbsp flour (chickpea or all-purpose)
Oil for frying (or spray oil for baking)
Instructions:
1. Soak Chickpeas:
Soak dried chickpeas in plenty of cold water overnight (12 hours).
Drain and pat dry before using.
2. Make the Mixture:
In a food processor, add chickpeas, onion, garlic, parsley, cilantro, cumin, coriander, salt, and pepper.
Pulse until the mixture resembles coarse sand. Don’t over-blend.
Add flour and baking powder. Pulse a few more times to combine.
Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes to firm up.
3. Shape the Bites:
Using your hands or a small cookie scoop, form small bite-sized balls.
4. Cook:
Option A: Fry
Heat 1 inch of oil in a pan over medium-high heat.
Fry falafel in batches for 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown.
Remove to a paper towel-lined plate
Option B: Bake
Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F).
Place falafel on a lined tray, spray lightly with oil.
Bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve with tahini sauce, hummus, or garlic yogurt dip.
Great inside pita bread, on a salad bowl, or as a finger food with dips.
Nutritional Information (per 1 bite, approx.):
Nutrient Amount
Calories 55 kcal
Protein 2.2 g
Carbohydrates 6.5 g
Fiber 1.5 g
Fat 2.5 g (if fried)
Saturated Fat 0.2 g
Sodium 90 mg
Note: Baked falafel will have lower fat content.
FAQ – Crispy Falafel Bites
Q1: Can I use canned chickpeas instead of dried?
A: No. Canned chickpeas are too soft and watery, resulting in mushy falafel. Always use soaked dried chickpeas for crispy texture.
Q2: Can I freeze falafel bites?
A: Yes! You can freeze uncooked or cooked falafel. Place on a tray to freeze individually, then transfer to a bag. Bake or fry directly from frozen.
Q3: What can I use instead of cilantro?
A: You can replace it with more parsley or use mint for a fresh twist.
Q4: Are falafel bites healthy?
A: Yes, especially when baked. They are high in fiber and plant-based protein. Frying adds more fat, so baking is a lighter option.
Q5: Can I air-fry falafel?
A: Yes! Air-fry at 190°C (375°F) for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy.