Baked Falafel Tahini Sauce (Printer-Friendly Version)
Wholesome baked chickpea falafel and smooth tahini sauce make a tasty, healthy meal for any occasion.
# What You'll Need:
→ Falafel
01 -
1 can (15 ounces) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
02 -
1 small onion, chopped
03 -
2 cloves garlic, minced
04 -
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
05 -
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
06 -
1 teaspoon ground cumin
07 -
1 teaspoon ground coriander
08 -
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
09 -
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
10 -
1 tablespoon olive oil
11 -
1 tablespoon lemon juice
12 -
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
→ Tahini Sauce
13 -
1/2 cup tahini
14 -
1/4 cup water, plus more as needed
15 -
2 tablespoons lemon juice
16 -
1 clove garlic, minced
17 -
Salt, to taste
# Steps to Follow:
01 -
Preheat oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
02 -
In a food processor, add chickpeas, onion, garlic, parsley, cilantro, cumin, coriander, salt, black pepper, olive oil, lemon juice, and baking powder. Pulse until the mixture is cohesive but not completely smooth.
03 -
Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions and use hands to form 1–2 inch balls or discs. Place them onto the prepared baking sheet with space between each.
04 -
Lightly brush or spray the falafel discs with olive oil. Bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crisp on both sides.
05 -
In a small bowl, whisk together tahini, water, lemon juice, and minced garlic. Add salt to taste and more water if needed to achieve a pourable consistency.
06 -
Serve warm falafel with tahini sauce on the side. Pair with salads, pita, or grains as desired.
# Additional Tips:
01 -
For extra crispiness, brush falafel with olive oil before baking and broil for 2–3 minutes at the end of baking if desired.
02 -
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days; reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10 minutes to retain texture.
03 -
Falafel freezes well when baked; cool completely, freeze on a tray, then transfer to a container or bag for up to three months. Reheat in a 350°F oven for 10–12 minutes from frozen.
04 -
Swap parsley or cilantro with fresh dill or mint to vary the flavor profile.