Gluten-Free Classic Falafel Balls

Crispy, golden, and bursting with vibrant Mediterranean flavors, these Gluten-Free Classic Falafel Balls are a perfect addition to your table. Made from soaked dried chickpeas, fresh herbs like parsley and cilantro, and a medley of warm spices, this recipe delivers authentic falafel goodness while catering to gluten-free diets. The addition of gluten-free flour ensures the perfect texture, keeping the falafel tender on the inside and crunchy on the outside. Fried to perfection, these falafel balls are ideal for stuffing into gluten-free pitas, layering over salads, or serving as part of a mezze platter. With just 25 minutes of prep time and the choice to make them ahead, these gluten-free delights are a must-try for anyone craving a nutritious, plant-based meal.

Nutriscore Rating: 67/100

Prep Time:25 mins

Cook Time:20 mins

Total Time:45 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 1 cup Dried chickpeas
• 1 medium Onion
• 3 Garlic cloves
• 1 cup Fresh parsley
• 1 cup Fresh cilantro
• 2 teaspoons Ground cumin
• 2 teaspoons Ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon Baking powder
• 1 teaspoon Salt
• 0.5 teaspoon Ground black pepper
• 0.25 teaspoon Cayenne pepper
• 2 tablespoons Gluten-free flour
• 2 cups Vegetable oil

Directions

Step 1

1. Rinse and soak the dried chickpeas in a large bowl with plenty of water for at least 12 hours or overnight. Drain well before using.

Step 2

2. In a food processor, combine the drained chickpeas, onion, garlic, parsley, cilantro, cumin, coriander, baking powder, salt, pepper, and cayenne. Process until the mixture is coarse and sticky but not pureed.

Step 3

3. Transfer the mixture to a bowl and stir in the gluten-free flour. If the mixture is too wet and doesn't hold together, add a bit more flour, 1 tablespoon at a time, as needed.

Step 4

4. Using your hands or a small cookie scoop, shape the mixture into small balls, about the size of a walnut, and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Step 5

5. In a deep, heavy-bottomed skillet or pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer to help maintain the temperature.

Step 6

6. Gently lower a few falafel balls into the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry them for 3-5 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are golden brown and crisp.

Step 7

7. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the cooked falafel to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil.

Step 8

8. Repeat with the remaining falafel balls, keeping the oil temperature consistent.

Step 9

9. Serve the falafel hot, in gluten-free pitas, on salads, or as a part of a Mediterranean appetizer platter.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	918.9 grams (918.9g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	4513

Total Fat 433.20g	555%
Saturated Fat 61.30g	307%
Polyunsaturated Fat 268.80g
Cholesterol 0mg	0%
Sodium 2917mg	127%
Total Carbohydrate 163.80g	60%
Dietary Fiber 42.00g	150%
Total Sugars 30.10g
Protein 45.20g	90%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 434mg	33%
Iron 21mg	118%
Potassium 2786mg	59%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 82.3%

Protein: 3.8%

Carbs: 13.8%