If you’ve been on the hunt for a delicious, wholesome dish that suits your dietary needs without compromising on flavor, you’re going to adore this Gluten-Free Falafel Recipe. These golden, crispy falafel patties are bursting with fresh herbs, fragrant spices, and a satisfying texture that’s perfect for any meal. Whether you’re gluten-sensitive or simply exploring new flavors, this recipe combines simplicity with incredible taste, making each bite a celebration of vibrant Mediterranean-inspired goodness.
Ingredients You’ll Need
What makes this Gluten-Free Falafel Recipe so fantastic is its thoughtful, straightforward list of ingredients. Each one is essential, bringing its own unique contribution to the overall taste, texture, and color of the falafel.
- 15 oz. can chickpeas (rinsed and drained): The hearty base that gives falafel its classic nutty flavor and crumbly texture.
- ½ cup cilantro (finely chopped): Adds fresh, bright notes that lift the overall flavor.
- ½ cup parsley (finely chopped): Gives a herbal earthiness and vibrant green color to the mixture.
- ½ cup red onion (finely chopped): Brings a mild sharpness and moisture to keep falafel tender.
- ¼ cup flour (gluten-free 1-to-1 blend): The binding agent that keeps everything together without gluten worries.
- 3 cloves garlic (crushed): Infuses a warm, savory depth that’s absolutely irresistible.
- 1 tsp. baking powder: Helps the falafel puff up slightly for a light, airy texture.
- 1 tsp. cumin: A classic Middle Eastern spice that warms each bite with subtle earthiness.
- ½ tsp. coriander: Provides a delicate citrusy undertone balancing the earthier spices.
- Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional): Adds just the right touch of heat if you like a little kick.
- ½ – ¾ tsp. salt (to taste): Enhances all the flavors while seasoning the chickpeas perfectly.
- ¼ tsp. black pepper: Adds a gentle peppery note to round out the seasoning.
- 2 Tbsp. avocado oil (or olive oil): For cooking, bringing a light, healthy fat that crisps the exterior beautifully.
How to Make Gluten-Free Falafel Recipe
Step 1: Combine All Ingredients Except Oil
Start your falafel adventure by adding the chickpeas, herbs, onion, garlic, spices, flour, and baking powder into a food processor fitted with an S-shaped blade. This combination is the heart of your falafel, and pulsing it gently ensures you get a perfect coarse mixture—not a paste—that will turn delightfully crisp once cooked.
Step 2: Pulse Until Just Clumping Together
Cover and pulse the processor 30 to 40 times, watching as the ingredients begin to clump but still hold some texture. This is key to keeping your falafel from turning mushy. The mixture should stick together enough to shape, but retain that crumbly integrity we all love.
Step 3: Chill the Mixture
Pop your falafel mixture in the fridge for 30 to 60 minutes. I promise, this chilling step is magical—it helps everything bind nicely and makes the patties much easier to handle when shaping, while enhancing the flavors as they meld together.
Step 4: Shape the Falafel Patties
Use about 2 tablespoons of falafel dough for each patty and shape them into ½-inch thick rounds. This size is perfect for even cooking and gives you a wonderfully satisfying bite-sized falafel experience. You should end up with roughly 12 patties—just enough to share or savor throughout the week.
Step 5: Cook to Golden Perfection
For skillet cooking, heat 1 tablespoon of avocado or olive oil in a large pan over medium heat until sizzling, then cook six patties at a time for 3 to 4 minutes per side until beautifully golden and crispy. Alternatively, bake your falafel at 350 degrees on parchment-lined sheets for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through for a slightly lighter, oil-free version still bursting with crunch.
How to Serve Gluten-Free Falafel Recipe
Garnishes
Falafel is a canvas begging for fresh, vibrant garnishes. Think cooling Greek tzatziki, a drizzle of tahini, or a sprinkle of chopped tomatoes and cucumbers. Each garnish adds freshness that contrasts wonderfully with the warm, spiced falafel.
Side Dishes
Pair your falafel with fluffy gluten-free pita bread or a crisp green salad. Roasted vegetables or a tangy quinoa salad also make fantastic companions, turning this humble falafel into a complete, nutritious feast.
Creative Ways to Present
Feeling creative? Build a falafel bowl loaded with greens, grains, grilled veggies, and dollops of your favorite sauces. Or assemble gluten-free falafel sliders using mini buns and fresh toppings for a fun twist that everyone will love at gatherings.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover falafel can stay fresh in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keeping them chilled helps maintain their texture and flavor, making lunch or dinner prep a breeze.
Freezing
If you want to keep your falafel on hand for longer, freeze the uncooked patties on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months, perfect for quick meals on busy days.
Reheating
Reheat your falafel by gently warming them in a skillet over medium heat or in the oven until they’re heated through and crisp on the outside again. This restores that fresh-out-of-the-pan texture and ensures each bite feels freshly made.
FAQs
Can I use dried chickpeas instead of canned?
Absolutely! If you prefer dried chickpeas, soak them overnight and cook them until tender before starting the recipe. Just make sure they are well-drained to avoid soggy falafel.
Is this Gluten-Free Falafel Recipe suitable for vegans?
Yes! It’s entirely plant-based with no animal products, so vegans can enjoy this recipe with no changes needed.
Can I bake the falafel instead of frying?
Definitely. Baking is a great alternative that yields a lighter dish with less oil while still providing a satisfying crisp exterior.
What can I substitute for the gluten-free flour?
You can use chickpea flour or almond flour if you prefer, but these might slightly change the texture, so keep an eye on how cohesive the mixture feels before shaping your patties.
How spicy is this falafel? Can I adjust the heat?
The spice level is mild with just a pinch of cayenne pepper added optionally. Feel free to omit or increase it based on your personal spice preference.
Final Thoughts
Making this Gluten-Free Falafel Recipe is such a joyful experience, from the aromatic herbs and spices to the satisfying crisp on the outside and tender inside. I hope this recipe becomes your new favorite way to enjoy falafel, whether as a snack, a main dish, or a party hit. Give it a try—you might just find yourself making it again and again!
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Gluten-Free Falafel Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes skillet / 20 minutes oven
- Total Time: 40-70 minutes (including chilling time)
- Yield: 12 falafel patties
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Gluten-Free Falafel recipe offers a delicious, plant-based twist on the classic Middle Eastern favorite. Made with chickpeas, fresh herbs, and gluten-free flour, these falafels can be cooked either in a skillet or baked in the oven, making them versatile for various dietary needs. Perfectly crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, these falafels are great served with Greek tzatziki sauce and homemade pita bread for a wholesome meal.
Ingredients
Falafel Mixture
- 15 oz. can chickpeas (rinsed and drained)
- ½ cup cilantro (finely chopped)
- ½ cup parsley (finely chopped)
- ½ cup red onion (finely chopped)
- ¼ cup gluten-free 1-to-1 flour blend
- 3 cloves garlic (crushed)
- 1 tsp. baking powder
- 1 tsp. cumin
- ½ tsp. coriander
- Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)
- ½ – ¾ tsp. salt (to taste)
- ¼ tsp. black pepper
Cooking Oil
- 2 Tbsp. avocado oil (or olive oil)
Instructions
- Prepare the Falafel Mixture: Add all ingredients except oil to a large food processor fitted with an S-shaped blade. Pulse 30-40 times until the mixture starts to clump together but is not puréed.
- Chill the Dough: Transfer the falafel mixture to a bowl and refrigerate for 30 to 60 minutes to help it firm up and stick together better for shaping.
- Shape Patties: Scoop 2 tablespoons of dough at a time and shape each into a ½-inch thick patty. You should get about 12 patties in total.
- Cook in Skillet: Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large stainless steel or non-stick skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot and sizzling, cook 6 falafel patties for 3-4 minutes per side until golden and crispy. Remove and repeat with remaining oil and patties.
- OR Bake in Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Arrange falafel patties spaced evenly on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and cooked through.
- Serve: Serve warm falafel with Greek tzatziki sauce and homemade pita bread for a delightful meal.
Notes
- Using gluten-free flour ensures this recipe is safe for gluten-sensitive individuals.
- Refrigerating the mixture before cooking helps it bind better and prevents crumbling.
- Adjust spices such as cayenne pepper to taste for desired heat level.
- Both pan-frying and baking methods yield delicious results; baking is a lighter, oil-saving option.
- Falafel can be frozen uncooked; shape and freeze on a tray, then transfer to a bag for later cooking.
