Introduction: A Taste of Comfort in Every Bite
Imagine this: You’ve had a long day, and the thought of preparing a meal feels overwhelming. Yet, you want something healthy, satisfying, and quick to make. What if you could create delicious falafel in less than 30 minutes? With this quick recipe for falafel with canned chickpeas, you can. No need to wait for dried beans to soak overnight or worry about complex ingredients—this method uses canned chickpeas, which makes the process so much easier and faster. For more recipes please click here
The crispy, golden texture and rich flavors of this falafel will remind you of the ones you find at your favorite Mediterranean restaurant, but with the convenience of preparing it at home. Whether you’re a busy professional, a parent, or just someone craving a hearty meal, this falafel recipe is an easy go-to for every occasion. Perfect for weeknights or meal prepping for the week ahead, this recipe brings comfort and joy to your kitchen.
Why Choose Canned Chickpeas for Your Falafel Recipe?
If you’ve ever made falafel from scratch, you know the time it can take to cook dried chickpeas, not to mention the extra steps required to make them soft enough to work with. Canned chickpeas are the perfect shortcut for falafel, and here’s why:
- Convenience and Time-Saving: Canned chickpeas are a lifesaver when you’re short on time. Unlike dried chickpeas, they don’t need hours of soaking or cooking. You can simply open a couple of cans, rinse them, and you’re ready to go. This saves you precious time, especially when you’re preparing a meal after a busy day.
- Consistency in Texture: Canned chickpeas provide a smoother, easier-to-mash texture that makes it simple to blend into your falafel mixture. They hold together well when fried, giving you the perfect crispy-on-the-outside, tender-on-the-inside falafel.
- Cost-Effective: Canned chickpeas are typically more affordable than buying dried chickpeas and cooking them yourself. It’s a budget-friendly way to make falafel without compromising on taste or quality.
By opting for canned chickpeas, you’re choosing a hassle-free, accessible, and efficient route to making this delightful dish without sacrificing flavor or authenticity.
Essential Ingredients Quick Recipe for Falafel with Canned Chickpeas
Before you start cooking, let’s gather the essential ingredients for your falafel. Here’s what you’ll need:
Table: Ingredients for Falafel with Canned Chickpeas
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Canned Chickpeas | 2 cans (15 oz) | Rinse and drain thoroughly |
| Onion | 1 medium | Finely chopped for better texture |
| Garlic | 3 cloves | Minced or finely chopped |
| Fresh Parsley | 1/2 cup | Chopped finely, adds freshness |
| Fresh Cilantro | 1/4 cup | Chopped finely, balances the flavors |
| Ground Cumin | 1 tsp | Adds depth and earthiness |
| Ground Coriander | 1 tsp | Balances the cumin with its citrusy notes |
| Baking Powder | 1 tsp | Helps the falafel stay light and fluffy |
| Flour (All-Purpose) | 2-3 tbsp | Helps bind the mixture together |
| Salt and Pepper | To taste | For seasoning |
| Olive Oil | 1 tbsp | For frying or greasing the baking sheet |
These ingredients create the perfect falafel—crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and full of fresh, aromatic flavors. Fresh herbs like parsley and cilantro are key to bringing out that authentic Mediterranean taste, while cumin and coriander add a depth of flavor you’ll love.
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Quick Recipe for Falafel with Canned Chickpeas
Now, let’s break down the process of making your falafel using canned chickpeas. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have crispy, homemade falafel in no time.
Step 1: Prepare the Chickpeas
First, open the canned chickpeas and drain them thoroughly. Rinse them well under cold water to remove any excess sodium and to ensure they’re clean. The goal is to ensure they’re ready to blend into a smooth falafel mixture.
Next, place the chickpeas in a food processor or a high-powered blender. Pulse the chickpeas until they’re smooth but still have a slight texture. You want them to be mashed, but not so fine that they turn into a paste. The texture should be chunky, which gives the falafel its signature consistency.
Add the finely chopped onion, garlic, parsley, and cilantro into the food processor. Pulse again until the mixture is fully combined. The herbs will give your falafel its fresh flavor, while the garlic and onion bring out a savory depth.
Step 2: Mix and Shape the Falafel
Once everything is blended together, transfer the mixture to a large mixing bowl. Add the baking powder, flour, and seasoning (salt and pepper) to the chickpea mixture. Mix everything together thoroughly. If the mixture feels too wet or loose, you can add a little more flour, one tablespoon at a time, until it holds together well.
Now, it’s time to shape the falafel. Using your hands, form the mixture into small balls or patties, about 1.5 inches in diameter. You can also use a falafel scoop if you have one. Once you’ve formed the falafel, place them on a tray or plate. Let them chill in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes—this will help them firm up and hold their shape better when cooking.
Step 3: Fry or Bake the Falafel
You have two options for cooking your falafel: frying or baking.
- Frying Method: Heat about 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the falafel in the pan. Fry them for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they’re golden brown and crispy. Once cooked, transfer the falafel to a plate lined with paper towels to remove excess oil.
- Baking Method: If you prefer a healthier option, you can bake the falafel. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the falafel on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the falafel lightly with olive oil to help them crisp up during baking. Bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping the falafel halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
Serving Suggestions for Your Quick Falafel
Now that your falafel is ready, it’s time to think about how to serve it. There are so many ways to enjoy your homemade falafel, whether you’re making a meal for yourself or hosting a gathering. Here are some ideas:
Serving Ideas:
- Falafel in Pita Bread: Stuff your falafel into warm pita bread and top with fresh veggies like cucumber, tomato, and lettuce. Add a drizzle of tahini or a yogurt-based sauce for extra creaminess.
- Falafel Salad: Place your falafel on a bed of mixed greens, alongside chopped vegetables like cucumber, tomato, and red onion. Top with a dressing made from yogurt, lemon juice, and olive oil.
- Falafel Platter: Serve your falafel with hummus, baba ganoush, pickles, and a side of warm pita. This makes for a delicious and hearty meal that can feed a crowd.
Side Dishes:
- Fresh tabbouleh salad
- Roasted vegetables (carrots, zucchini, or sweet potatoes)
- Simple cucumber and tomato salad with lemon and olive oil
No matter how you serve them, falafel is a dish that pairs well with so many sides, making it perfect for a well-rounded, satisfying meal.
Common Questions About Making Falafel with Canned Chickpeas
Here are some frequently asked questions that can help answer any lingering doubts you may have:
1. Can I use dried chickpeas instead of canned?
Yes, you can use dried chickpeas, but you’ll need to soak them overnight and cook them before using them in the recipe. Canned chickpeas save a significant amount of time and effort, which is why they’re perfect for this quick recipe.
2. How do I make falafel if I don’t have fresh herbs?
If you don’t have fresh herbs, you can substitute with dried herbs. Just use about half the amount required for fresh herbs. Fresh cilantro and parsley do provide a much more vibrant flavor, but dried herbs will still give you a tasty result.
3. Can I bake the falafel instead of frying them?
Yes, baking falafel is a healthier option and still results in deliciously crispy falafel. The key to making baked falafel crispy is to lightly coat them with olive oil and bake them at a high temperature.
4. How can I make my falafel spicier?
To add some heat, include a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder in your falafel mixture. Start with a small amount and adjust to your desired spice level.
Conclusion: Enjoy Your Quick and Delicious Falafel!
You now have everything you need to make a quick and easy batch of falafel with canned chickpeas. Whether you’re looking for a fast weeknight dinner or a tasty snack, this recipe is sure to satisfy. The beauty of falafel lies in its versatility—you can enjoy it in so many ways, from wraps to salads to platters. And the best part? You don’t need to spend hours in the kitchen to achieve that authentic taste.
So, what are you waiting for? Grab a can of chickpeas, gather your ingredients, and get cooking. You’ll be enjoying homemade falafel in no time. Enjoy the flavors, and share this recipe with your friends and family for a meal that everyone can savor.