Baked Falafel with Tahini Sauce Recipe

These Baked Falafel with Tahini Sauce are golden, crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and bursting with Middle Eastern spices. Made with chickpeas, herbs, and a blend of aromatic seasonings, they’re healthier than traditional fried versions but just as flavorful. The creamy tahini sauce adds the perfect nutty, tangy finish.

Falafel are perfect as a main dish in pita wraps, a side for salads, or a snack for parties. They’re naturally vegan, high in protein and fiber, and endlessly versatile.

If you love plant based, flavorful meals like Vegan Lentil Shepherd’s Pie or Crispy Zucchini Fritters with Lemon Yogurt, this recipe belongs in your regular rotation.

THE BEST FALAFEL RECIPE

What Are Falafel?

Falafel are Middle Eastern chickpea fritters. Traditionally deep fried, they’re crunchy outside, soft inside, and packed with herbs and spices. In this baked version, they’re crisped in the oven, making them lighter without sacrificing flavor or texture.

They’re naturally vegan, gluten free if made with gluten free flour, and perfect for meal prep.

Why This Recipe Works So Well

• Crispy texture without frying
• Herby, flavorful interior thanks to parsley, cilantro, and garlic
• Balanced spices: cumin, coriander, paprika
• Creamy tahini sauce ties everything together

The falafel hold together perfectly and have a satisfying bite every time.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Falafel

• 1 ½ cups dried chickpeas (soaked overnight)
  Or 2 cans chickpeas, well drained (texture slightly softer)
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ cup fresh parsley
• ½ cup fresh cilantro
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  Helps bind; gluten-free flour works too.
• ½ teaspoon baking powder (optional, for extra fluffiness)

For the Tahini Sauce

• ¼ cup tahini
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1–2 tablespoons water (to thin)
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt to taste

Optional Serving Ingredients

• Pita bread or flatbread
• Sliced tomatoes, cucumber, and lettuce
• Pickled vegetables

Ingredient Notes & Substitutions

Chickpeas:
Soaked dried chickpeas give the best texture. Canned chickpeas can be used but may yield softer falafel.

Fresh Herbs:
Parsley and cilantro are essential for flavor and color.

Spices:
Cumin and coriander are classic; smoked paprika adds warmth.

Tahini Sauce:
Adjust water for desired consistency. Fresh lemon juice brightens the flavor.

How to Make Baked Falafel with Tahini Sauce

This recipe takes about 15 minutes prep and 25–30 minutes baking.

Step 1: Preheat Oven

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease.

Step 2: Prepare Chickpeas

If using dried chickpeas:

• Soak overnight in plenty of water
• Drain and rinse

If using canned:

• Drain and rinse thoroughly

Step 3: Process Falafel Mixture

In a food processor, combine:

• Chickpeas
• Onion
• Garlic
• Parsley
• Cilantro
• Spices

Pulse until coarse and well combined.
Don’t over-process; you want texture, not paste.

Add flour and baking powder if using.
Pulse a few more times until it holds together when shaped.

Step 4: Shape the Falafel

Use hands or a small cookie scoop to form 1½-inch balls or patties.
Place on prepared baking sheet.

Step 5: Bake Until Crispy

Lightly brush or spray with olive oil.
Bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden brown.

Step 6: Make Tahini Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together:

• Tahini
• Lemon juice
• Olive oil
• Garlic powder
• Salt
  Add water 1 teaspoon at a time until smooth and pourable.

Step 7: Serve

Serve falafel warm with tahini sauce drizzled on top or in pita wraps with fresh veggies.

Texture and Flavor

• Exterior: Golden and crisp
• Interior: Soft, herby, and flavorful
• Sauce: Creamy, nutty, and tangy

It’s addictive, healthy, and satisfying.

Pro Tips for Best Falafel

• Drain chickpeas well to avoid soggy falafel
• Pulse mixture until coarse, not smooth
• Flip halfway for even browning
• Use a cookie scoop for uniform size
• Serve immediately for best texture

Variations & Add Ins

Spicy Falafel

Add ¼ teaspoon cayenne or chopped jalapeño.

Extra Crispy

Broil 1–2 minutes at the end of baking.

Gluten Free

Use chickpea or almond flour instead of all-purpose flour.

Mediterranean Bowls

Serve with quinoa, hummus, and roasted vegetables.

Serving Suggestions

• In pita with tahini, cucumber, tomato, and lettuce
• On a salad for protein packed lunch
• As party appetizers with dipping sauce
• With roasted vegetables for a full meal

Make Ahead and Storage Tips

Make Ahead

Shape falafel and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

Storage

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for 3–4 days.

Freezing

Freeze baked falafel in a single layer, then transfer to a bag. Reheat in oven at 375°F for 10 minutes.

Reheating

Bake or air fry to maintain crispiness. Avoid microwaving if possible.

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving, 4 falafel + sauce)

• Calories: 220–250
• Protein: 8–10g
• Fat: 10–12g
• Carbs: 28–30g

Rich in fiber and plant based protein.

Common Mistakes & Fixes

• Falling apart: Pulse mixture coarse, not smooth; add flour if needed.
• Dry interior: Don’t overbake; ensure chickpeas aren’t too dry.
• Bland flavor: Increase herbs or spices; add lemon juice to sauce.

FAQs About Baked Falafel

Can I use canned chickpeas?
Yes, but texture may be softer.

Can I freeze uncooked falafel?
Yes, freeze on baking sheet, then transfer to bag. Bake from frozen.

Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, if using gluten-free flour.

Can I air fry falafel?
Absolutely! Air fry at 375°F for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway.

What can I serve with falafel?
Pita, salad, roasted vegetables, or as a protein bowl.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Healthy and plant based
• Crispy outside, tender inside
• Easy to make at home
• Perfect for meal prep or parties
• Flavorful without frying

This recipe shows that baked falafel can be just as satisfying as fried.

Conclusion

These Baked Falafel with Tahini Sauce are golden, crispy, and full of flavor. Serve them in wraps, over salads, or as a party appetizer. The creamy tahini sauce perfectly balances the herbs and spices.

If you love plant based favorites like Sweet Potato Tater Tot Nachos or Crispy Parmesan Crusted Chicken, this recipe belongs in your regular rotation.