Easy Vegan Falafel Recipe

Falafel is a classic Middle Eastern dish made from chickpeas (or fava beans), herbs, and spices, then fried to crispy perfection. This Easy Vegan Falafel recipe is simple, healthy, and full of flavor—perfect for serving in pita wraps, bowls, or as a delicious appetizer with a side of hummus.

Serves: 4-6
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes

Ingredients:

2 cups cooked chickpeas (or 1 can, drained and rinsed)
1/2 medium onion, roughly chopped
2-3 garlic cloves
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
1-2 tablespoons flour (chickpea or all-purpose flour)
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon ground coriander
1 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
2 tablespoons tahini (optional, for extra creaminess)
2 tablespoons olive oil (plus extra for frying)
Juice of half a lemon

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Falafel Mixture:

In a food processor, combine the chickpeas, onion, garlic, parsley, cilantro, cumin, coriander, salt, pepper, baking powder, tahini (if using), and lemon juice.
Pulse until the mixture is finely chopped but not pureed. You want the mixture to have some texture, so don’t over-process it.
Scrape down the sides as needed and pulse again until it holds together when pressed. If the mixture is too wet or loose, add a tablespoon of flour at a time until it firms up.

2. Chill the Mixture:

Transfer the falafel mixture to a bowl and cover it with plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the mixture to firm up. Chilling the mixture helps the falafel hold their shape while frying.

3. Shape the Falafel:

Once chilled, use your hands or a falafel scoop to form the mixture into small balls or patties (about 1 1/2 inches in diameter).
If you prefer, you can use a falafel scoop or spoon to make uniform-sized patties for an even cook.

4. Fry the Falafel:

Heat a few tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, gently place the falafel balls in the pan, being careful not to overcrowd them.
Fry the falafel for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy. You may need to turn them gently with tongs or a spoon to ensure all sides cook evenly. Alternative: For a healthier option, you can bake the falafel. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake the falafel on a parchment-lined baking sheet for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crisp.

5. Serve:

Once cooked, remove the falafel from the pan and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil.
Serve your easy vegan falafel warm with pita bread, hummus, tahini sauce, or a fresh salad.

Tips for Perfect Vegan Falafel:

Use dried chickpeas: For the best texture, use dried chickpeas that have been soaked overnight. Canned chickpeas can be used in a pinch, but they often result in a softer falafel.
Don’t skip the chilling: Chilling the falafel mixture is crucial to help them stay intact while cooking.
Bake or Air Fry: For a healthier version, bake or air fry your falafel instead of frying them in oil. Baking them at 375°F for 25-30 minutes will give them a crisp texture without the need for excess oil.
Make Ahead: The falafel mixture can be made in advance and stored in the fridge for up to 2 days, or frozen for later use.

Why This Easy Vegan Falafel is a Winner:

Quick and Simple: This recipe is ready in under an hour, including chilling time.
Healthy & Protein-Packed: With chickpeas as the base, this falafel is full of plant-based protein and fiber.
Customizable: You can add other spices like paprika or cayenne for a bit of heat or even add diced vegetables like grated carrots or zucchini to change things up.
Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a large batch and enjoy falafel in wraps, salads, or as a snack throughout the week.

This Easy Vegan Falafel recipe is the perfect addition to any vegan meal plan. Whether you’re enjoying it in a pita wrap or as a salad topper, it’s a delicious and nutritious way to enjoy a plant-based protein-packed dish. Enjoy!