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Homemade Falafel

Homemade Falafel : Healthy & Perfect For Any Diet

Learn how to make crispy, golden homemade falafel at home with this ultimate step-by-step guide! This authentic recipe uses dried chickpeas, fresh herbs, and warm spices to create the perfect balance of texture and flavor. Whether fried, baked, or air-fried, this homemade falafel recipe is naturally vegan, protein-packed, and full of Mediterranean goodness.

  • Total Time: 25 minutes (plus soaking time)
  • Yield: 4-6 servings (makes about 20 falafel balls) 1x

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 1 ½ cups dried chickpeas (soaked overnight, NOT canned)
  • ½ cup fresh parsley (chopped)
  • ½ cup fresh cilantro (chopped)
  • ½ small onion (finely chopped)
  • 3 garlic cloves (minced)
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp ground coriander
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • ½ tsp baking soda
  • 2 tbsp chickpea flour or all-purpose flour (optional, for binding)

Optional Add-Ins for Flavor:

  • ½ tsp red pepper flakes (for a spicy kick)
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice (for brightness)
  • Sesame seeds (for extra nuttiness)

Cooking Oil for Frying:

  • Vegetable oil, canola oil, or avocado oil (for deep-frying)

Instructions

  1. Soak the Chickpeas: Place dried chickpeas in a large bowl and cover with water. Let them soak for at least 12 hours or overnight. Drain and pat dry to remove excess moisture.
  2. Blend the Mixture: Add chickpeas, parsley, cilantro, garlic, onion, and spices to a food processor. Pulse until a coarse paste forms (avoid over-blending). Stir in baking soda and chickpea flour, then chill for 30 minutes.
  3. Shape the Falafel: Use a falafel scoop or spoon to form small balls or patties. If the mixture is too wet, add more flour for binding.
  4. Choose Your Cooking Method: Frying (Traditional Method): Heat oil to 350°F (175°C) and fry falafel for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown. Baking (Healthier Option): Brush with oil and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway. Air Frying (Low-Oil Alternative): Lightly spray falafel with oil and air-fry at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes, shaking halfway.
  5. Serve & Enjoy: Serve in pita bread, wraps, or bowls with tahini sauce and fresh veggies. Pair with hummus, tabouli salad, or pickled vegetables for an authentic meal.
  • Author: Norah
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus 12 hours soaking)
  • Cook Time: 10-15 minutes
  • Category: Main Course, Appetizer, Snack
  • Method: Frying, Baking, Air Frying
  • Cuisine: Middle Eastern, Mediterranean

Keywords: homemade falafel, best falafel recipe, crispy falafel, vegan falafel, how to make falafel, chickpea falafel