Are you craving a delightful Middle Eastern treat that’s both flavorful and guilt-free? Look no further than our irresistible Crispy Baked Falafel Bites with Tahini Sauce! These little morsels of goodness are the perfect way to satisfy your falafel cravings without the hassle of deep-frying.
Imagine biting into a crispy outer shell that gives way to a soft, herbaceous interior packed with the aromatic flavors of chickpeas, fresh herbs, and exotic spices. And what better way to complement these flavorful bites than with a creamy, tangy tahini sauce that perfectly balances the richness and adds an extra burst of flavor?
Ingredients:
- 1 cup dried chickpeas, soaked overnight and drained
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup fresh parsley leaves, chopped
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro leaves, chopped
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (or more if you like it spicier)
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil cooking spray
For the Tahini Sauce:
- 1/2 cup tahini paste
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup water (or more to reach desired consistency)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside.
- In a food processor, pulse the drained chickpeas until they are coarsely ground, but not pureed.
- Transfer the ground chickpeas to a large bowl and add the onion, garlic, parsley, cilantro, cumin, coriander, cayenne pepper, baking powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until everything is evenly combined.
- Using a small ice cream scoop or your hands, form the mixture into small, bite-sized balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Lightly spray or brush the falafel bites with olive oil cooking spray.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the falafel bites are crispy and golden brown on the outside.
- While the falafel bites are baking, prepare the tahini sauce by whisking together all the sauce ingredients in a small bowl. Add more water if you prefer a thinner consistency.
- Remove the falafel bites from the oven and serve them warm with the tahini sauce for dipping or drizzling on top.
These Crispy Baked Falafel Bites with Tahini Sauce are a true crowd-pleaser, perfect for sharing with friends and family as an appetizer or a light main course. The combination of the crispy exterior, tender interior, and creamy tahini sauce is simply divine. Plus, they’re baked instead of fried, making them a healthier alternative to traditional falafel without sacrificing any of the delicious flavors.
One of the best things about this recipe is its versatility. You can serve these falafel bites as part of a mezze platter, stuffed into pita bread for a vegetarian sandwich, or even as a flavorful topping for salads. The possibilities are endless, and each bite will transport you to the vibrant flavors of the Middle East.
So, why wait? Gather your ingredients and get ready to experience a burst of flavors with these Crispy Baked Falafel Bites with Tahini Sauce. Your taste buds (and your waistline) will thank you!
