Catch the aroma of crispy, golden-brown Vegan Gluten Free Falafel wafting through your kitchen, teasing your taste buds and promising flavor explosions with each bite. Imagine sinking your teeth into a perfectly spiced ball of chickpea goodness, where every crunch transports you to bustling street markets filled with laughter and culinary delights.
Now, picture this: you’re hosting a cozy gathering with friends, and as the falafel sizzles in the pan, everyone gathers around, eager for that first taste. The anticipation builds as you plate them up, garnishing with fresh herbs and a zesty tahini sauce that dances on your palate. Trust me; this is a dish that not only satisfies hunger but creates memories.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This vegan falafel is incredibly easy to whip up, even for novice cooks.
- Its bold flavors and crispy texture make it a crowd-pleaser at any gathering.
- Visually stunning with vibrant greens and golden hues, it’s sure to impress guests.
- Versatile enough to serve in wraps or salads, you’ll find endless ways to enjoy it.
Ingredients for Vegan Gluten Free Falafel
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Chickpeas: Canned or cooked from dry, these legumes are the backbone of our falafel, providing protein and texture.
- Fresh Parsley: Use vibrant parsley for a fresh flavor boost that brightens up the falafel.
- Cumin: This spice adds warmth and depth; don’t skimp on it!
- Coriander: Ground coriander complements cumin beautifully and gives an aromatic twist.
- Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic enhances the overall flavor profile—go for crushed cloves for maximum impact.
- Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brings brightness that balances richness.
- Gluten-Free Flour (such as chickpea flour): Use this to bind the mixture together without gluten.
- Baking Powder: A leavening agent that ensures light and fluffy falafels.
- Salt & Pepper: Essential for seasoning—don’t forget to taste!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Vegan Gluten Free Falafel
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients
Start by rinsing your canned chickpeas under cold water if using canned ones. If you’re feeling adventurous and using dried chickpeas, soak them overnight before cooking until tender.
Step 2: Blend It All Together
In a food processor, combine chickpeas, parsley, cumin, coriander, garlic cloves, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Pulse until you reach a coarse mixture—think crumbly but not mushy.
Step 3: Add the Binders
Transfer the mixture into a bowl and stir in gluten-free flour and baking powder. Mix until everything is well combined; it should hold its shape when formed into balls.
Step 4: Shape Those Falafels
With damp hands (to prevent sticking), scoop out small portions of the mixture and roll them into balls or patties. Aim for about one inch in diameter—perfect bite-sized pieces!
Step 5: Cook ‘Em Up
Heat oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat. Once hot (test by dropping a tiny piece of batter in; it should sizzle), carefully add your shaped falafels. Fry until golden brown on all sides—about three minutes per side.
Step 6: Serve with Style
Transfer cooked falafels onto paper towels to drain excess oil. Serve them warm alongside your favorite dipping sauce like tahini or yogurt sauce for an irresistible touch.
These vegan gluten-free falafels are bound to steal the show at any meal! Transfer them to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch. Enjoy every crunchy moment!
You Must Know
- This amazing Vegan Gluten Free Falafel is not only delicious but also a fantastic way to add protein and flavor to your meals.
- Packed with herbs and spices, these little chickpea balls can jazz up any dish.
- Perfect for a quick snack or as part of a larger meal, they’ll keep you coming back for more.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by soaking the chickpeas overnight for the best texture. Drain them, then blend with spices and herbs until it forms a smooth mixture. Shape into balls, then fry or bake until golden brown. Simultaneously, prepare your sauce or toppings for efficiency.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out herbs like parsley for cilantro or add spices such as cumin or paprika for extra flavor. Consider mixing in grated vegetables like zucchini or carrots to enhance nutrition and texture. You can even try different dipping sauces!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover falafel in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. To reheat, pop them in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes for that crispy texture again, or microwave them if you’re in a rush.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For the crispiest falafel, ensure your oil is hot enough before frying; this prevents them from absorbing too much oil.
- Don’t over-blend the chickpeas; a coarse texture makes for better falafel.
- Lastly, let the mixture chill for at least 30 minutes before shaping; it helps them hold together.
Sharing this recipe brings back memories of my first falafel-making adventure. My friends were skeptical at first but ended up raving about how delicious they turned out!
FAQs
What ingredients are used in Vegan Gluten Free Falafel?
Vegan gluten free falafel typically includes chickpeas, fresh herbs like parsley and cilantro, garlic, onion, and spices such as cumin and coriander. Instead of traditional breadcrumbs, you can use ground oats or gluten-free flour to bind the mixture. This ensures that the falafel remains both vegan and gluten-free. You can also consider adding vegetables for extra flavor and nutrition.
How can I make Vegan Gluten Free Falafel crispy?
To achieve a crispy texture for your vegan gluten free falafel, make sure to thoroughly drain the chickpeas before blending them. Adding a bit of baking powder can also help create a lighter texture. Frying the falafel in hot oil or baking them at a high temperature will result in a crispy exterior while maintaining a tender inside.
Can I store leftover Vegan Gluten Free Falafel?
Yes, you can store leftover vegan gluten free falafel! Place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them. Just ensure they are completely cool before placing them in a freezer-safe bag. When ready to eat, reheat in the oven or air fryer for best results.
What sauces pair well with Vegan Gluten Free Falafel?
Vegan gluten free falafel pairs beautifully with various sauces. Tahini sauce is a classic choice and adds creaminess to the dish. You might also enjoy a spicy harissa sauce or a zesty lemon garlic dressing for added flavor. These sauces complement the spices in the falafel while enhancing its overall taste profile.
Conclusion for Vegan Gluten Free Falafel
Vegan gluten free falafel is an excellent choice for those seeking delicious and healthy plant-based meals. By using simple ingredients like chickpeas and fresh herbs, you can create flavorful bites that satisfy any craving. Remember to focus on achieving crispiness through proper cooking techniques and consider pairing your falafel with tasty sauces for an extra flavor boost. Enjoy crafting this vibrant dish that is sure to impress friends and family alike!
Vegan Gluten Free Falafel
Vegan Gluten Free Falafel is a delightful, crunchy treat that bursts with flavor in every bite. Made from wholesome chickpeas and fresh herbs, these crispy balls are the perfect addition to any meal or snack. Served with zesty tahini sauce or wrapped in a warm pita, they promise to transport your taste buds straight to the vibrant streets of the Mediterranean. Easy to prepare and packed with nutrients, this dish not only satisfies hunger but also brings friends and family together for a memorable dining experience.
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 falafels 1x
Ingredients
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp ground coriander
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- Juice of 1 lemon (about 2 tbsp)
- 1/4 cup gluten-free flour (chickpea flour preferred)
- 1 tsp baking powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Oil for frying
Instructions
- Rinse chickpeas under cold water. If using dried chickpeas, soak overnight and cook until tender.
- In a food processor, combine chickpeas, parsley, cumin, coriander, garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Pulse until crumbly.
- Transfer the mixture to a bowl and mix in gluten-free flour and baking powder until well combined.
- Shape the mixture into 1-inch balls using damp hands.
- Heat oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat. Fry falafels until golden brown on all sides (about 3 minutes per side).
- Drain on paper towels and serve warm with tahini sauce.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 3 falafels (90g)
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: - For extra crunch, ensure the oil is hot enough before frying. - Experiment with herbs like cilantro or spices such as paprika for variations. - Leftover falafel can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days.
