Crispy Homemade Falafel Recipe – Best Easy Falafel for Iftar, Snacks & Middle Eastern Meals

Alright, let’s talk falafel—aka crispy little bites of Middle Eastern magic. If you’ve never made homemade falafel before, trust me, you’re about to unlock a whole new level of deliciousness. This is hands-down the Best Falafel Recipe Homemade, and the best part? It’s actually easy. No deep frying, no weird ingredients, just simple, fresh flavors that make the perfect vegetable falafel every single time.

As a busy mom of three, I live for recipes that are easy and taste like they took way more effort than they actually did. This Easy Falafel Recipe is exactly that—crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, packed with warm spices and fresh herbs. Plus, it’s naturally vegetarian, full of protein, and perfect for Iftar Dishes, Easy Snacks, and Quick Recipes Snacks during Ramadan. Pair it with some Mint Raita Recipe, stuff it in a pita, or throw it in a bowl with some rice and veggies—sooo many falafel meal ideas to choose from!

And listen, if you’ve ever wondered how to cook chickpeas the right way for falafel, I got you. We’re doing it the real way, with dried chickpeas (not canned!), because that’s the secret to falafel that’s actually crispy—not mushy. Whether you’re planning your Ramadan Iftar Ideas, looking for an Easy Iftar Recipe, or just need a good Middle Eastern Recipe to add to your rotation, this one’s a keeper. Let’s get cooking!

Why This Recipe Works

• No canned chickpeas! I know, I know, canned chickpeas are easy. But listen—if you want the real deal, dried chickpeas are the way to go. Soaking them overnight gives you the perfect texture (and no weird mushy falafel falling apart on you).
• No deep frying. We’re baking or air frying, which means crispy falafel with way less effort and mess.
• Super flavorful. Fresh herbs, garlic, warm spices? This is the only way falafel should taste.
• Freezer-friendly. Make a big batch and freeze some for later. Future you will be so grateful.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

• Dried chickpeas (not canned—trust me on this one)
• Fresh parsley & cilantro (the secret to that herby, fresh taste)
• Garlic & onion (because duh, flavor)
• Ground cumin & coriander (these two together? Falafel magic)
• Baking powder (makes ‘em light and fluffy inside)
• Flour (or chickpea flour for gluten-free)
• Salt & pepper (always)
• A lil’ olive oil (if baking or air frying)

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How to Make the Best Falafel

1. Soak Your Chickpeas (Don’t Skip This!)

First things first, grab your dried chickpeas and soak ‘em overnight in a ton of water. Like, they’ll double in size, so make sure they’ve got room. This step is super important—canned chickpeas are too soft and will turn your falafel into mush.

Forgot to soak them? You can do a quick soak by covering them with boiling water and letting them sit for 1-2 hours, but overnight is way better.

2. Blend It All Together

Once your chickpeas are ready, drain them and toss them in a food processor with:

• A handful of fresh parsley & cilantro
• 3-4 garlic cloves
• ½ a small onion, chopped
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon coriander
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon baking powder
• 2 tablespoons flour

Pulse everything a few times until it starts coming together. You want a slightly chunky, moldable texture—not a smooth paste. If it’s too dry and crumbly, add a teaspoon of water at a time until it sticks together.

3. Chill That Dough

Now, pop the mixture in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This helps the flavors blend together and makes it easier to shape later. If I’m being honest, I usually prep it in the morning and forget about it till dinner because, well… kids.

4. Shape ‘Em Up

Once your falafel mix is chilled, scoop out little portions (about a tablespoon each) and roll them into balls or flatten them slightly into patties. You don’t have to make them perfect—mine always end up slightly wonky, but they still taste amazing.

5. Bake, Air Fry, or Pan-Fry

Alright, now for the good part—cooking these bad boys.

• Baking: Preheat your oven to 400°F and brush a baking sheet with a little olive oil. Arrange the falafel and bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
• Air Frying: Set your air fryer to 375°F and cook for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway.
• Pan-Frying: Heat a little oil in a pan over medium heat and fry each falafel for 3-4 minutes per side until crispy and golden.

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How to Serve Falafel

There are so many ways to eat falafel, but here are my faves:

• Stuffed into a warm pita with hummus, lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, and a drizzle of tahini sauce.
• Over a big salad with chopped veggies, feta, and a lemony dressing.
• As a snack with tzatziki or garlic sauce for dipping.
• Falafel bowls with rice, pickled onions, and some spicy harissa sauce (chef’s kiss).

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Leftovers? Here’s What to Do

Falafel stays fresh in the fridge for up to 5 days. Just reheat in the oven or air fryer to get that crispiness back.

Wanna freeze ‘em? You totally can. Just shape the raw falafel, lay them on a baking sheet, and freeze. Once solid, transfer them to a freezer bag. When you’re ready to eat, bake straight from frozen—just add a few extra minutes to the cook time.

FAQs About Falafel

The Best Homemade Falafel Recipe

And that’s it! Now you’ve got the Best Falafel Recipe Homemade that’s crispy, flavorful, and way better than anything store-bought. Seriously, once you try this Easy Falafel Recipe, you’ll never go back. Whether you’re making it for a quick lunch, meal prepping for the week, or adding it to your Ramadan Food Iftar Table, this one’s a keeper.

What I love most about this Vegetable Falafel is how versatile it is. You can stuff it into a pita, toss it on a salad, or serve it with a side of Mint Raita Recipe for dipping. It’s the perfect option for Iftar Dishes, Easy Snacks, and Delicious Snacks Recipes, especially during Ramadan when you need something filling but still light. Plus, it’s packed with plant-based protein, making it a great choice for Vegetarian Recipes or anyone looking for a meat-free meal.

If you’ve ever wondered How To Cook Chickpeas the right way for falafel, now you know the secret—dried chickpeas! No canned ones here, just real, crispy, golden falafel that actually holds together. So if you’re planning your Iftar Menu Ideas, looking for Quick Recipes Snacks, or need an easy option for your Ramzan Iftar Recipe, this one checks all the boxes.

Go ahead and make a big batch, freeze some for later, and get creative with your Falafel Meal Ideas. Whether it’s for Dinner Recipes, Easy Iftar Recipes, or a last-minute snack, this Homemade Falafel Recipe is one you’ll be making again and again. Enjoy!