Use dry chickpeas soaked overnight and left raw, never canned and never cooked. Canned beans are full of water and disintegrate in the oil; raw soaked ones grind into a dry, coarse batter that fries up shatter-crisp with a green, fluffy middle.
By Vince Gonzalez · Published July 2026 · Sourcing verified 5 Jul 2026
Prep30 min
Cook15 min
Makes4 servings
CuisineMiddle Eastern
Cost$
VeganGluten-free
The Ingredients — and where to get them
Cook for4servings
Dried chickpeas
Soaked overnight and left raw; this is non-negotiable for texture.
A neutral oil deep enough to float the fritters at 350F.
for frying
Local / market
The Rundown
Greedometer●●●●●Squeaky clean
About as virtuous as dinner gets. · plan ahead — needs marinating, soaking, or resting time
EffortSome doing
Cook it with
Air fryerInstant PotSlow cookerOne-pot
The Method
Grind coarsePulse the raw soaked chickpeas with herbs, onion, garlic, and spices to a coarse, couscous-like grind. A puree will not hold, so stop while it is still gritty.
Rest the mixChill the mixture at least 30 minutes so it firms and the flavors marry. Stir in a pinch of baking soda right before shaping for lift.
Shape tightPack into firm little pucks with a scoop or wet hands. If they crumble, pulse the batter again to bind it tighter.
Fry hotFry at 350F for three to four minutes until deep brown and crackly. Drain on a rack, not paper, so the bottoms stay crisp.
Yes — this is exactly what an air fryer does well. Work in a single layer so the air can move, and shake or flip halfway for even crisping. It runs a touch faster than the oven, so check early.
Can you freeze Falafel? — Yes
Yes — it freezes well. Cool it fully, portion into airtight containers, and it keeps a few months; thaw in the fridge and reheat gently.
Can you make Falafel ahead of time? — Yes
Yes — it holds well and often tastes better the next day. Make it ahead and reheat gently before serving.
Is Falafel gluten-free? — Yes
Yes — nothing in this recipe as written contains gluten. As always, glance at the labels on any packaged items (broth, sauces, chocolate), since brands vary.
Is Falafel vegan? — Yes
Yes — no meat, seafood, dairy, egg, or honey in it as written.
Community Notes
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