Baked Falafel with Tzatziki Sauce

$For baked falafel, you need the following main ingredients: - 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed - 1 small onion, chopped - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped - 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped - 1 teaspoon cumin - 1 teaspoon coriander - 1/2 teaspoon baking powder - 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional) - Salt and pepper to taste - 2 tablespoons olive oil - 1/2 cup whole wheat flour (or chickpea flour for gluten-free) These ingredients make a flavorful and healthy base. The chickpeas are the star. They provide protein and texture. Use fresh herbs for a vibrant taste. To make tzatziki sauce, gather these ingredients: - 1 cup Greek yogurt - 1/2 cucumber, grated and drained - 1-2 cloves garlic, minced (adjust to taste) - 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried dill) - 1 tablespoon lemon juice - Salt to taste Tzatziki adds a cool contrast to the warm falafel. The yogurt brings creaminess, while the cucumber freshens each bite. Getting the right measurements is key for baked falafel. Use a kitchen scale for accuracy. This ensures even cooking and the right texture. For gluten-free options, substitute whole wheat flour with chickpea flour. This keeps the falafel tasty and safe for those with gluten allergies. Remember, precise measurements lead to the best results! Check your pantry for fresh herbs and spices. They can elevate your dish significantly. For more details, check the Full Recipe. To start, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This is important for getting that perfect crispy texture. While the oven heats, line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Next, chop the onion and measure out your garlic, herbs, and spices. Having everything ready makes the next steps easier. Now, grab your food processor. Add the chickpeas, onion, garlic, parsley, cilantro, cumin, coriander, baking powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Pulse until the mixture is coarse but not mushy. You want it to hold together well. After that, transfer the mixture to a bowl. Stir in the flour until just combined. If it feels too wet, add a bit more flour to help it bind. Next, form the mixture into small balls or patties, about 1 to 1.5 inches wide. Place them on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle the tops with olive oil for extra crispiness. Bake in the oven for 25-30 minutes. Flip the falafel halfway through to ensure even cooking. They should turn golden brown and crispy on the outside. Enjoy the smell wafting through your kitchen! To avoid mushy falafel, do not over-process the mixture. Pulse it until it's coarse. If your falafel falls apart, add a bit more flour. For different ovens, check the temperature with an oven thermometer. Ovens can vary, so adjust the time as needed. Add spices like smoked paprika or turmeric for a unique twist. Fresh herbs like mint can also brighten the flavor. Let the falafel mixture rest for at least 30 minutes. This helps the flavors meld and improves the texture. Pair baked falafel with warm pita bread or a fresh salad. Roasted veggies also make a great side. For plating, arrange falafel on a colorful plate, and drizzle tzatziki sauce on top. Garnish with fresh herbs for a beautiful finish. For the full recipe, check the main article! {{image_2}} For those who need a gluten-free choice, you can use chickpea flour instead of whole wheat flour. This switch allows you to enjoy falafel without worry. You can also use binding agents like ground flaxseed or chia seeds mixed with water. These work well to hold your falafel together. You can change the flavor of your falafel by adding different herbs. Fresh mint or basil can give it a unique twist. If you like heat, try adding more cayenne pepper or even some chopped jalapeños. These changes make for a spicy or herby falafel that excites your taste buds. Falafel is versatile. You can serve it in wraps, bowls, or salads. This makes it a great option for quick meals. For a fun tzatziki twist, consider adding mashed avocado to your sauce. This adds creaminess and a fresh flavor that pairs well with the falafel. Try these variations to discover your favorite way to enjoy baked falafel with tzatziki sauce! You can find the full recipe above for more details. To keep leftover falafel fresh, store them in an airtight container. Place parchment paper between layers to avoid sticking. They last up to four days in the fridge. For longer storage, freeze them. Line a baking sheet with parchment and place falafel in a single layer. Freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. They can last for three months in the freezer. When reheating, maintain crispiness by baking instead of microwaving. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place falafel on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes. This will help them regain their crunch. To keep tzatziki fresh, store it in a sealed container in the fridge. Use fresh ingredients for the best taste. Tzatziki lasts about three to four days. Before serving, stir it well to mix any settled ingredients. If you notice excess liquid, drain it with a spoon. This keeps the sauce thick and creamy. You can make falafel and tzatziki in advance for easy meals. Prepare the falafel mixture and form into balls. Store them in the fridge for up to a day before baking. Alternatively, freeze the formed falafel before baking for quick meals later. For tzatziki, make a batch ahead of time and store it in the fridge. This will save you time on busy days. Enjoy the quick and tasty meals with your baked falafel with tzatziki sauce! For the full recipe, check out the earlier sections. Look for a few signs to know your falafel is done. The outside should be golden brown. You want it crispy but not burnt. If you gently press the falafel, it should feel firm. The inside should be warm and slightly soft. This means it cooked through but did not dry out. No food processor? No problem! You can mash the chickpeas with a fork or a potato masher. This will take longer, but it works. Use a large bowl to mix in the chopped herbs and spices. A blender can also work if you add a little water to help blend. Yes, you can prepare baked falafel in advance! Form the falafel balls and place them on a baking sheet. Cover them and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready, bake them straight from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time. You can also freeze them before baking for longer storage. Just thaw and bake when you want a tasty meal! Baked falafel is easy and fun to make at home. You learned about key ingredients, like chickpeas and spices, that create delicious flavors. I shared simple steps for preparation, baking, and perfecting the falafel texture. We also explored variations and storage tips. Now, you have the tools to make tasty falafel and tzatziki, whether for a quick meal or a special gathering. Enjoy trying new flavors and methods in your kitchen!$

Baked Falafel with Tzatziki Sauce

Delight your taste buds with this easy recipe for Baked Falafel with Creamy Tzatziki Sauce! Made with chickpeas, fresh herbs, and spices, these crispy, oven-baked falafels are healthy and flavorful. Pair them with a refreshing homemade tzatziki for the perfect combination. Ready in just 45 minutes, they make a fantastic meal or snack. Click through to discover the full recipe and start cooking today!

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Ingredients

1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed

1 small onion, chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped

1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

1 teaspoon cumin

1 teaspoon coriander

1/2 teaspoon baking powder

1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

Salt and pepper to taste

2 tablespoons olive oil

1/2 cup whole wheat flour (or chickpea flour for gluten-free)

For the Tzatziki Sauce:

1 cup Greek yogurt

1/2 cucumber, grated and drained

1-2 cloves garlic, minced (adjust to taste)

1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried dill)

1 tablespoon lemon juice

Salt to taste

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

In a food processor, combine the chickpeas, onion, garlic, parsley, cilantro, cumin, coriander, baking powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Pulse until the mixture is coarse but combined; do not over-process.

Transfer the chickpea mixture to a bowl and stir in the flour until just combined. If the mixture is too wet, add a little more flour until it holds together.

Form the mixture into small balls or patties, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter, and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle the tops with olive oil.

Bake the falafel in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside.

While the falafel bakes, prepare the tzatziki sauce. In a bowl, mix together the Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, garlic, dill, lemon juice, and salt to taste. Adjust seasoning as needed.

Once the falafel are baked, let them cool slightly before serving.

Serve the baked falafel warm with the tzatziki sauce on the side.

Prep Time: 15 mins | Total Time: 45 mins | Servings: 4