Are you ready to embark on a culinary journey to the heart of the Middle East? Our Baked Falafel with Spinach is not just a dish; it's a delightful explosion of flavors and textures that will leave your taste buds dancing! Imagine crispy, golden-brown falafel packed with the goodness of chickpeas and fresh spinach, all baked to perfection for a healthier twist on a classic favorite. Whether you're a seasoned home chef or just starting out in the kitchen, this recipe is simple, satisfying, and sure to impress your family and friends. Dive into the world of vibrant spices and wholesome ingredients, and let’s create a dish that’s as delicious as it is nutritious!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup fresh spinach
- 1/4 cup onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon tahini
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon coriander
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for brushing
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure that your falafel cooks evenly and gets a nice golden color.
- In a food processor, combine the drained and rinsed chickpeas, fresh spinach, chopped onion, minced garlic, tahini, cumin, coriander, salt, and pepper. Pulse the mixture until it is well combined but still slightly chunky. You want a texture that holds together but isn’t completely smooth.
- Once the mixture is blended, taste it and adjust the seasoning if necessary. You can add more salt, pepper, or spices according to your preference.
- Transfer the falafel mixture to a bowl and let it sit for about 10 minutes. This resting time allows the flavors to meld together.
- While the mixture rests, line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will prevent the falafel from sticking and make for easier cleanup.
- Using your hands, form the falafel mixture into small balls or patties, about 1 to
- 5 inches in diameter. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each piece.
- Lightly brush the tops of the falafel with olive oil. This will help them crisp up in the oven and give them a nice golden color.
- Once all the falafel are shaped and brushed with oil, place the baking sheet in the preheated oven. Bake for about 25 minutes, flipping the falafel halfway through to ensure even cooking and browning.
- After 25 minutes, the falafel should be golden brown and crispy on the outside. Remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving.
- Serve the baked falafel warm with your choice of dipping sauce, such as tahini sauce or yogurt sauce, and enjoy with a side of fresh salad or pita bread.
Tips
- Choose the Right Chickpeas: For the best texture, use dried chickpeas that have been soaked overnight instead of canned. If you do use canned, make sure to rinse and drain them thoroughly to remove excess sodium.
- Don’t Over-Process: When blending the ingredients, pulse just until combined. A slightly chunky texture helps the falafel hold together and adds a delightful bite.
- Resting Time is Key: Allow the mixture to rest for about 10 minutes before shaping. This step helps the flavors meld and makes it easier to form the falafel without them falling apart.
- Make Uniform Sizes: For even cooking, try to shape your falafel into uniform sizes. This ensures that they bake evenly and achieve that perfect crispy exterior.
- Experiment with Spices: Feel free to customize the spices! Adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika can elevate the flavor profile and give your falafel a unique twist.
- Use Parchment Paper: Lining your baking sheet with parchment paper not only prevents sticking but also makes cleanup a breeze.
- Flip for Even Crispness: Remember to flip the falafel halfway through baking to achieve that desired golden-brown color on both sides.
- Serve with Freshness: Pair your baked falafel with a refreshing side salad or tuck them into warm pita bread with your favorite sauces for a complete meal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 180kcal
Carbohydrates: 22g
Protein: 8g
Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
