Classic Crispy Vegan Falafel

If you’re looking for a delightful and nutritious dish that’s packed with flavor, then look no further than this Classic Crispy Vegan Falafel recipe. These small, crispy balls of goodness are made from wholesome ingredients and are perfect for a quick snack, a satisfying meal, or as a star in your next gathering. Perfectly spiced, deliciously crispy on the outside, and wonderfully fluffy on the inside, this falafel will soon become a staple in your kitchen.

Why This Recipe is a Keeper

This Classic Crispy Vegan Falafel recipe is not just easy to make; it’s incredibly versatile! Whether you’re serving them in a pita with fresh vegetables, over a salad, or as part of a mezze platter, they are sure to impress. Plus, they are naturally vegan and packed with protein, making them a healthy choice for everyone. The vibrant flavors of fresh herbs and spices create a taste sensation that will have you going back for seconds.

The Ingredient Lineup

To create these crispy falafels, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1+ cup dried uncooked chickpeas
• 1 medium onion
• 4 cloves garlic
• 0.8 oz fresh parsley
• 0.6 oz fresh cilantro
• 1+ tsp ground cumin seeds
• 2 Tbsp sesame seeds
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1/4 cup cold water

Cook’s Kit

Before diving into the cooking process, gather the following kitchen tools:

• Food Processor: Essential for blending your mixture to the perfect consistency.
• Mixing Bowl: For combining your ingredients prior to shaping.
• Baking Sheet: To bake or roast your falafel if you prefer a healthier cooking method.
• Frying Pan or Deep Fryer: For achieving that crispy exterior.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Precision is key in cooking!

Classic Crispy Vegan Falafel: How It’s Done

Making your own falafel from scratch is a rewarding experience. Follow these simple steps to create your Classic Crispy Vegan Falafel.

Step 1: Prepare the Chickpeas

Start by soaking the dried chickpeas in a large bowl of water overnight. This softens them and makes blending easier. Ensure to use enough water to cover the chickpeas, as they will expand.

Step 2: Blend the Ingredients

After soaking, drain and rinse the chickpeas. In a food processor, combine the soaked chickpeas, chopped onion, garlic, parsley, cilantro, ground cumin, salt, black pepper, and sesame seeds. Pulse until the mixture is coarse but holds together when squeezed.

Step 3: Add Baking Soda and Water

Transfer the mixture to a mixing bowl. Sprinkle the baking soda over the mixture and gradually add cold water, mixing until you achieve a consistency that allows you to form balls. Avoid making it too wet; it should be sticky yet manageable.

Step 4: Shape the Falafel

Using your hands, form the mixture into small balls or patties, about the size of a golf ball. Place them on a plate or baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Step 5: Heat the Oil

In a frying pan, heat about 2 inches of oil over medium heat. You can test if the oil is ready by dropping in a small piece of the falafel mixture; it should sizzle immediately.

Step 6: Fry the Falafel

Carefully place the falafel balls into the hot oil, being cautious not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Remove them using a slotted spoon and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Your Classic Crispy Vegan Falafel is now ready to serve! They are delicious on their own or paired with tahini sauce, hummus, or a refreshing Cilantro Lime Quinoa Salad. Enjoy them in a pita with fresh veggies or as part of a larger meal.

International Equivalents

If you’re curious about how falafel is enjoyed around the world, here are some interesting international variations:

• Middle Eastern: Often served in pita with tahini sauce, pickles, and fresh vegetables.
• Egyptian: Sometimes made with fava beans instead of chickpeas, known as ta’ameya.
• Israeli: Served with a variety of salads and spicy sauces, making it a flavorful street food.
• American: Frequently found in wraps and bowls, often accompanied by sauces and grains.

Problems & Prevention

Making falafel can be straightforward, but there are a few common pitfalls to avoid:

• Too Wet Mixture: If the mixture is too wet, the falafel will fall apart in the oil. Ensure you don’t add too much water and that the chickpeas are well-drained.
• Not Crispy: Fry in hot oil and avoid overcrowding the pan. If they are not crispy, they may need more time in the oil.
• Flavorless Falafel: Adjust spices to your taste. Don’t be afraid to experiment with additional herbs and seasoning.

Keep-It-Fresh Plan

To keep your falafel fresh and delicious, consider these storage tips:

Once cooked, falafel can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze the uncooked falafel balls on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag. They can be cooked straight from the freezer, just add an extra minute or two to the frying time.

Your Questions, Answered

Can I bake the falafel instead of frying?

Absolutely! To bake, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), place the falafel on a baking sheet, and lightly spray or brush with oil. Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown.

What can I serve with falafel?

Falafel pairs well with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with tahini sauce, hummus, fresh salads, or grains like quinoa or rice. A Creamy Garlic Spinach Penne In 20 Minutes could also complement your meal nicely!

Can I make falafel ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the mixture and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before frying. You can also freeze the uncooked balls and fry them when you’re ready to eat.

Are there any substitutions for chickpeas?

If you want to experiment, you can try using other legumes such as black beans or fava beans. Keep in mind that the flavor and texture may change slightly, but it can lead to delicious variations!

What to Make After This

If you enjoyed making Classic Crispy Vegan Falafel, here are some recipes to try next:

• Cilantro Lime Quinoa Salad
• Creamy Garlic Spinach Penne In 20 Minutes

Final Bite

There you have it—your very own Classic Crispy Vegan Falafel! They are not only fun to make but also delicious and satisfying. Whether you enjoy them as a snack or as part of a larger meal, these falafels are sure to be a hit. Just remember, the best part about cooking is the joy of sharing your creations with loved ones, so don’t hesitate to whip up a batch and spread the love!