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Falafel, a beloved dish originating from the Middle East, has captured the hearts and taste buds of food enthusiasts around the globe. This savory concoction made from ground chickpeas and a blend of aromatic herbs and spices has transcended its cultural roots to become a staple in vegetarian and vegan diets. With the growing demand for plant-based options, falafel stands out not only for its rich flavor but also for its versatility, making it an ideal choice for a variety of occasions—from casual street food to elegant dinner parties. In this article, we will dive into the recipe for crispy crunchy baked falafel balls, highlighting their health benefits, flavor profile, and the sheer joy of creating these delicious bites from scratch.

Crunchy Baked Falafel Balls

Discover the joy of making crispy crunchy baked falafel balls at home! This delightful plant-based dish from the Middle East combines chickpeas, aromatic herbs, and spices, making it a favorite among vegetarians and vegans. Enjoy the health benefits of baking instead of frying, while still achieving that perfect crunch. Serve them in wraps, salads, or with your favorite dips for a versatile and satisfying meal that everyone will love. Enjoy a flavorful, guilt-free treat!
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Ingredients
  

1 cup dried chickpeas (soaked in water for 8 hours)

1 small onion, roughly chopped

3 cloves garlic, minced

1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped

1/4 cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped

1 teaspoon ground cumin

1 teaspoon ground coriander

1/2 teaspoon baking powder

Salt and black pepper to taste

1/4 cup tahini

3 tablespoons olive oil (plus additional for drizzling)

1/2 cup breadcrumbs (preferably whole grain for extra crunch)

Optional: 1 teaspoon paprika or cayenne pepper for a spicy kick

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure that your falafel balls don’t stick and for easy cleanup.

    Prepare the Chickpeas: After soaking the chickpeas, drain and rinse them thoroughly under cold water. In a food processor, combine the chickpeas, onion, garlic, parsley, cilantro, cumin, coriander, baking powder, salt, pepper, and tahini. Pulse the mixture until it becomes a coarse batter that holds together but is not too smooth.

      Form the Mixture: Transfer the blended chickpea mixture to a large mixing bowl. Add the breadcrumbs and olive oil, mixing well until everything is evenly incorporated. If you like some heat, sprinkle in the paprika or cayenne pepper. If the mixture feels too wet and difficult to shape, slowly add more breadcrumbs until it reaches a firm and moldable consistency.

        Shape the Balls: Using your hands, form the mixture into small balls about the size of golf balls. Place the formed balls on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring there is enough space between them for even cooking.

          Coat and Bake: To enhance the crispy texture of the falafel, lightly drizzle olive oil over the tops of each ball. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes. Be sure to flip them halfway through the baking time to ensure they’re evenly golden brown and crispy on all sides.

            Serve: Once baked to perfection, remove the falafel balls from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. These delightful falafel are perfect paired with tahini sauce, creamy hummus, or a vibrant fresh salad. Enjoy every bite!

              Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 10 minutes | 40 minutes | 4 servings