Deliciously Crispy Vegan Falafel Fritters You’ll Love
Oh, let me tell you, when it comes to cozy, comforting food, these vegan falafel fritters are simply a must-try. Imagine biting into something crispy on the outside and softly flavorful on the inside… It’s like a warm hug in food form! Made with chickpeas and a medley of fragrant herbs, these little gems are just bursting with flavor. Honestly, they’re perfect as a snack, an appetizer, or even a main dish, especially when you pair them with a nice side salad or some tahini sauce. And the best part? It’s so simple to whip up that you’ll find yourself making them again and again.
Why You’ll Crave It
- Super crispy outside, soft and tender inside—you’ll be hooked!
- Loaded with fresh herbs—like, really aromatic and flavorful.
- They’re totally adaptable; throw in your fave spices or veggies.
- Perfect for snacking, entertaining, or meal prepping for the week.
- Addictive… Seriously, my family just can’t stop at one!
My family fights over the last few fritters every time I make them—it’s that good!
What You’ll Need
- Chickpeas: 400g, drained and rinsed, adds the base texture and flavor
- Red onion: 1, finely chopped, gives that lovely sweetness
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced, for an aromatic kick
- Fresh parsley: 1 bunch, chopped, brightens the flavor
- Fresh coriander: 1 bunch, chopped, gives that perfect zing
- Ground cumin: 1 teaspoon, adds warmth and depth
- Ground coriander: 1 teaspoon, brings in a nice citrusy touch
- Flour: 2 tablespoons (optional, for binding), helps everything stick together
- Salt: to taste, because we all love a little seasoning
- Black pepper: to taste, adds a touch of heat
- Olive oil: for frying, because crispy is where it’s at!
Easy How-To
Let’s Get Cooking!
First up, gather all your ingredients—trust me, it makes everything smoother. So, you’ll want to combine those drained chickpeas, onion, garlic, fresh herbs, and spices in a food processor. Just pulse it… but don’t turn it into mush! You want a mix that’s kinda chunky but holds together. Then, transfer that mixture to a bowl, and use your hands to shape it into small golf ball-sized fritters. Once you’ve got that down, toss them on a plate, cover with some cling film, and pop them in the fridge for about 30 minutes. Chilling helps them firm up a bit, which is key for frying. Now, heat up some oil in a large frying pan—just till it shimmers—and then carefully fry those babies in batches, about 3-4 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown and just perfect. Once they’re done, let them drain on some paper towels and voilà, serve them warm!
Good to Know
- If you want to mix things up, add in some chopped veggies—carrots or bell peppers work really well!
- Leftovers? They’re not going to last long in my house, but if they do, you can store them in an airtight container for up to three days.
- You can freeze the uncooked fritters on a baking sheet first… then transfer them to a freezer bag. When you’re ready, just fry them straight from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to cook.
Serving Ideas
- Pair them with some tangy tahini sauce and fresh veggies for a deliciously bright meal.
Top Tricks
- Want to avoid soggy fritters? Make sure your oil is hot enough before you add them in—that’s key for that nice crispy crust!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I bake the falafel fritters instead of frying?
Absolutely! Bake them for a healthier option. Just brush them with a bit of olive oil and pop them in the oven at a high temperature until they’re golden. They won’t be as crunchy, but still tasty for sure!
What can I substitute for chickpeas?
If you don’t have chickpeas handy, you could try using lentils or even black beans. Just keep in mind that the flavor and texture will change a bit, but you can definitely make it work!
How do I store leftover falafel fritters?
Any leftovers can go in an airtight container in the fridge for about three days. Reheat them in the oven—just to keep that crispiness intact.
Can I freeze the fritters?
Yes indeed! You can freeze the uncooked fritters—just lay them out on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. Cook them right from frozen, it’s super convenient!
What toppings pair well with falafel fritters?
Top them off with pickles, some fresh veggies, and a drizzle of tahini sauce to really elevate the dish. You won’t regret it!
Conclusion
So there you have it! These vegan falafel fritters are like a delightful flavor party on your plate, right? With their crispy texture and rich taste, they fit perfectly into any meal, whether it’s a cozy dinner at home or a gathering with friends. And don’t be shy with the herbs and spices—experiment a little! Making them uniquely yours can turn this simple dish into something extraordinary.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Falafel Tacos
Switch things up and fill soft tortillas with falafel, fresh veggies, and maybe a zesty avocado sauce—it’s a fun take on tacos!
Falafel Salad Bowl
Mix falafel with greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and drizzle it with tahini dressing for a fresh salad. Yum!
Falafel Wrap
Wrap those fritters in pita bread with some hummus, crunchy lettuce, and your favorite pickles for a nice portable meal.
Falafel Burger
Make them into larger patties for falafel burgers—grill and top them with your favorite condiments for a veggie delight.
Spicy Falafel Rice Bowl
Serve falafel over rice, with roasted veggies and a sprinkle of some spicy sauce for a hearty, satisfying dish.
