Are you ready to elevate your plant-based cooking game with a burst of vibrant flavor? Look no further than these Turmeric Baked Falafel! This Middle Eastern delight is not only vegan and gluten-free but also packs a powerful punch of nutrition and taste. With a golden hue from turmeric and a crispy exterior that gives way to a soft, flavorful interior, these falafels are sure to impress your family and friends. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a delightful weekend feast, this recipe is a must-try! Dive into the world of spices and wholesome ingredients, and discover how easy it is to create this healthy, mouthwatering dish right in your own kitchen!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp ground turmeric
- 1 tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- In a medium-sized bowl, combine the drained and rinsed chickpeas with the chopped onion, minced garlic, fresh parsley, ground turmeric, cumin, salt, and pepper. Use a fork or potato masher to mash the mixture until it is well combined but still has some texture. You want it to be somewhat chunky, not completely smooth.
- Once the chickpea mixture is prepared, drizzle in the olive oil and mix thoroughly to ensure even distribution. The olive oil will help the falafel crisp up in the oven.
- Using your hands, form the mixture into small balls or patties, about the size of a golf ball or slightly flattened. Place each falafel on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each one to allow for even cooking.
- Once all the falafel are shaped and on the baking sheet, lightly brush or spray the tops with a little more olive oil. This will enhance browning and crispiness during baking.
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 25 minutes, flipping the falafel halfway through the cooking time to ensure they are golden brown and crispy on both sides.
- While the falafel are baking, you can prepare a dipping sauce or side salad if desired. A tahini sauce or a simple yogurt sauce works wonderfully with falafel.
- Once the falafel are done baking, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving. They can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature.
- Serve the turmeric baked falafel with your choice of dipping sauce, in a pita, or over a salad. Enjoy your delicious and healthy Middle Eastern-inspired meal!
Tips
- Chickpea Prep: For the best texture, make sure to drain and rinse your chickpeas thoroughly. This helps remove excess sodium and ensures your falafel mixture isn't too watery.
- Mash It Right: When mashing the chickpea mixture, aim for a chunky consistency. This will give your falafel a delightful texture and prevent them from becoming too dense.
- Oil for Crispiness: Don’t skip the olive oil! It not only adds flavor but also helps achieve that perfect crispy exterior. A light brush on top before baking can work wonders.
- Baking Sheet Matters: Use parchment paper on your baking sheet to prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze. It also helps the falafel cook evenly.
- Flipping for Perfection: Remember to flip your falafel halfway through baking. This ensures they are golden brown and crispy on both sides, giving you that satisfying crunch with every bite.
- Serving Suggestions: These falafels are incredibly versatile! Serve them in a pita with fresh veggies, over a salad, or with a tangy tahini sauce for a delightful dipping experience.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the falafel mixture ahead of time and refrigerate it. Just shape and bake them when you’re ready to serve for a quick and easy meal!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 180kcal
Carbohydrates: 22g
Protein: 8g
Fat: 9g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
