Herb-Infused Baked Chickpea Falafel
Experience the vibrant and aromatic flavors of the Middle East with our Herb-Infused Baked Chickpea Falafel. This wholesome dish is made from creamy cooked chickpeas combined with fragrant garlic, fresh parsley, and a blend of warm spices. Unlike traditional fried falafel, this baked version is healthier while still delivering satisfying texture and taste. Serve it nestled in whole wheat pita bread, topped with fresh veggies and a drizzle of yogurt-tahini dressing for a delightful and nutritious meal the whole family will love.
6
Servings
N/A
Calories
13
Ingredients
Ingredients
cooked chickpeas
2 1/2 cups (cooked until tender)
large garlic cloves
2 (chopped)
minced fresh parsley
2 tablespoons
ground coriander
2 teaspoons
ground cumin
2 teaspoons
chili powder
1/2 teaspoon
ground red pepper
to taste
freshly ground black pepper
to taste
salt
to taste
tomatoes
2 (chopped)
cucumber
1/2 cup (julienne)
whole wheat pita bread
6 (cut in half)
shredded romaine lettuce
3 cups
Instructions
1
Preheat the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200 degrees Celsius).
2
In a blender or food processor, combine the cooked chickpeas, chopped garlic, minced parsley, ground coriander, ground cumin, chili powder, ground red pepper, freshly ground black pepper, and salt.
3
Blend the mixture until it becomes a thick paste, scraping down the sides as necessary to incorporate all ingredients.
4
Lightly coat a baking sheet with non-stick spray. Using your hands, roll the chickpea mixture into 1-inch balls and arrange them on the prepared baking sheet. Lightly spray the tops of the falafel balls with non-stick spray.
5
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 20 minutes, or until the falafel are lightly golden brown and firm to the touch.
6
While the falafel are baking, prepare the salad by combining the chopped tomatoes and julienned cucumber in a medium bowl.
7
Once the falafel are cooked, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly.
8
To serve, cut the pita breads in half to create pockets. Fill each pocket with a handful of shredded romaine lettuce, a few baked falafel balls, the tomato-cucumber mixture, and a generous drizzle of yogurt-tahini dressing.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Herb-Infused Baked Chickpea Falafel?
It is a healthy, baked version of the traditional Middle Eastern dish made from cooked chickpeas, garlic, fresh parsley, and a blend of warm spices.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This recipe makes 6 servings.
What is the main ingredient in this falafel recipe?
The main ingredient is 2 1/2 cups of cooked chickpeas.
Is this falafel fried or baked?
This falafel is baked in the oven at 400 degrees Fahrenheit, making it a healthier alternative to traditional fried falafel.
How long should I bake the falafel?
Bake the falafel for approximately 20 minutes until they are lightly golden brown and firm to the touch.
What oven temperature is required?
Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200 degrees Celsius).
What spices are used to flavor the falafel?
The spice blend includes ground coriander, ground cumin, chili powder, ground red pepper, and freshly ground black pepper.
Does this recipe use fresh herbs?
Yes, it uses 2 tablespoons of minced fresh parsley.
How do I achieve the right consistency for the falafel mixture?
Combine ingredients in a blender or food processor and blend until the mixture becomes a thick paste.
What size should the falafel balls be?
The mixture should be rolled into 1-inch balls.
How do I prevent the falafel from sticking to the baking sheet?
Lightly coat the baking sheet with non-stick spray before arranging the falafel balls.
Should I spray the falafel balls before baking?
Yes, lightly spray the tops of the falafel balls with non-stick spray to help them brown.
What vegetables are included in the side salad?
The salad is made from 2 chopped tomatoes and 1/2 cup of julienned cucumber.
What kind of bread is used for serving?
The recipe calls for 6 whole wheat pita breads, cut in half to create pockets.
What dressing is recommended for this dish?
A generous drizzle of yogurt-tahini dressing is recommended.
Is this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, this is a vegetarian dish.
Can this recipe be made vegan?
Yes, the falafel itself is vegan; simply ensure you use a vegan-friendly dressing instead of a dairy-based yogurt-tahini dressing.
What type of lettuce is used for the pita pockets?
The recipe uses 3 cups of shredded romaine lettuce.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 13 ingredients in total.
How much garlic is required?
The recipe requires 2 large garlic cloves, chopped.
Can I adjust the spiciness of the falafel?
Yes, the ground red pepper, black pepper, and salt can be adjusted to taste.
How do I prepare the cucumber for the salad?
The cucumber should be prepared using a julienne cut.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
The falafel balls are gluten-free, but you must use a gluten-free pita alternative to keep the entire meal gluten-free.
When should I prepare the salad?
Prepare the salad while the falafel are baking in the oven.
What should I do after removing the falafel from the oven?
Let the falafel cool slightly before assembling the pita pockets.
How do I assemble the pita pocket?
Fill each pocket with romaine lettuce, baked falafel balls, the tomato-cucumber mixture, and a drizzle of dressing.
Can I use a blender instead of a food processor?
Yes, either a blender or a food processor can be used to make the chickpea paste.
How much ground cumin is needed?
The recipe uses 2 teaspoons of ground cumin.
How much ground coriander is needed?
The recipe uses 2 teaspoons of ground coriander.
Is this a good meal for families?
Yes, it is described as a delightful and nutritious meal that the whole family will love.