Easy Baked Vegan Falafels
Crunchy, flavorful, and completely plant-based, these easy baked vegan falafels are a delicious twist on a classic Middle Eastern dish.
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Get ready to embark on a culinary adventure that combines vibrant flavors, wholesome ingredients, and a touch of Middle Eastern magic. These easy baked vegan falafels are a delightful twist on the traditional recipe, offering a healthier and cruelty-free alternative that doesn’t compromise on taste. Packed with aromatic herbs, spices, and plant-based protein, these falafels will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving for more.
Whether you’re a dedicated vegan, an adventurous foodie, or simply looking to add more plant-based goodness to your diet, this recipe is sure to become a go-to favorite in your kitchen. So, roll up your sleeves and prepare to savor the irresistible flavors of these crispy, oven-baked falafels that are as healthy as they are delicious.
This Easy Baked Vegan Falafels use canned chickpeas that are rinsed and dried (to prevent excess moisture).
Here’s a simple method for drying canned chickpeas:
- Drain the canned chickpeas: Open the can of chickpeas and pour the contents into a colander or strainer. Rinse them thoroughly under cold water to remove any excess salt or brine.
- Pat dry: After rinsing, spread the chickpeas on a clean kitchen towel or paper towels. Gently pat them dry to remove as much moisture as possible. You can also roll them between the towels to help absorb the water.
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to a low temperature, around 200°F. This low heat setting will help slowly dry out the chickpeas without cooking them.
- Arrange the chickpeas: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat. Spread the chickpeas in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Make sure they are evenly spaced and not touching each other.
- Bake and dry: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and let the chickpeas dry for about 1 to 2 hours. The exact time will depend on the size and moisture content of the chickpeas. Check on them periodically and give the pan a gentle shake to ensure even drying.
- Test for dryness: To check if the chickpeas are dry, take a few out of the oven and let them cool completely. They should be firm and crunchy. If they are still soft or chewy, return them to the oven for additional drying time.
- Cool and store: Once the chickpeas are fully dried and cooled, remove them from the oven and let them cool completely.
Easy Baked Vegan Falafels
Ingredients needed:
2 tbsp ground flaxseed
1 15.5 oz can chickpeas, drained, rinsed and dried
1 small yellow onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
3/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1 tbsp ground cumin
1 1/2 tsp salt
1 1/2 tsp baking powder
Juice from 1 lemon
2 tbsp all-purpose or chickpea flour
1 1/2 cup bread crumbs
Directions:
Preheat your oven to 375°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a small bowl, add the 2 tablespoons of ground flaxseed and 4 tbsp of water. Stir and set it aside for 5 minutes to thicken.
In a food processor, combine the chickpeas, onion, garlic, fresh parsley, cumin, salt, baking powder, and lemon juice . Pulse until well combined but still slightly chunky. Add the flaxseed mixture and pulse to combine.
Transfer the mixture to a bowl. Add the flour and breadcrumbs. Mix well until the mixture is evenly combined and holds together when pressed. If the mixture seems too wet, you can add more flour one tablespoon at a time, until it holds together.
Shape the mixture into small patties about 2 1/2 inches in diameter. Place them on the prepared baking sheet. Brush the falafels lightly with olive oil to help them crisp up in the oven.
Bake the falafels for about 20-25 minutes, flipping them halfway through, until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside. Once baked, remove the falafels from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving.
How to serve falafels
These Easy Baked Vegan Falafels can be served in various ways, depending on your preference. Here are some popular serving options:
- Pita Sandwich: One of the most common ways to enjoy falafels is by stuffing them into a pita bread pocket. Cut the pita in half and gently open the pocket. Place a few falafels inside and add toppings such as shredded lettuce, sliced tomatoes, cucumbers, pickles, and onions. Drizzle with sauces like tahini, tzatziki, or hot sauce for added flavor.
- Salad: Falafels can be served on top of a fresh salad for a nutritious meal. Prepare a bed of mixed greens or your favorite salad base. Add chopped vegetables like cucumbers, tomatoes, bell peppers, and red onions. Place the falafels on top and garnish with herbs like parsley or mint. Dress the salad with a lemony vinaigrette or tahini dressing.
- Mezze Platter: Create a Mediterranean-style mezze platter by serving falafels alongside other small dishes. Include items like hummus, tabbouleh, baba ganoush, stuffed grape leaves, olives, and warm pita bread. This is a great option for sharing and sampling a variety of flavors.
Easy Baked Vegan Falafels
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp ground flaxseed
- 1 15.5 oz can chickpeas, drained, rinsed and dried (see blog post for instructions)
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tbsp ground cumin
- 1 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
- Juice from 1 lemon
- 2 tbsp all-purpose or chickpea flour
- 1 1/2 cups bread crumbs
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a small bowl, add the 2 tablespoons of ground flaxseed and 4 tbsp of water. Stir and set it aside for 5 minutes to thicken.
- In a food processor, combine the chickpeas, onion, garlic, fresh parsley, cumin, salt, baking powder, lemon juice, . Pulse until well combined but still slightly chunky. Add the flaxseed mixture and pulse to combine.
- Transfer the mixture to a bowl. Add the flour and breadcrumbs. Mix well until the mixture is evenly combined and holds together when pressed. If the mixture seems too wet, you can add more flour one tablespoon at a time, until it holds together.
- Shape the mixture into small patties about 2 1/2 inches in diameter. Place them on the prepared baking sheet. Brush the falafels lightly with olive oil to help them crisp up in the oven.
- Bake the falafels for about 20-25 minutes, flipping them halfway through, until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside. Once baked, remove the falafels from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving.
Looking for more easy vegan recipes like these Easy Baked Vegan Falafels?
Vegan Southwestern Quinoa Salad
Vegan Roasted Delicata Squash Salad
Fast and Easy Vegan Avocado Salad with Tahini Dressing
Did you try this recipe? I’d love to see the results! If you enjoyed making these Easy Baked Vegan Falafels, I’d love to see yours on Instagram, just tag me @10IngredientVegan. Happy cooking!
