Low Fat Classic Falafel Balls

Satisfy your cravings for authentic Middle Eastern flavors with this healthier spin on a beloved classic: Low Fat Classic Falafel Balls. Made with protein-packed dried chickpeas, fresh herbs like parsley and cilantro, and a fragrant blend of cumin and coriander, these baked falafel balls deliver all the savory goodness without the deep frying. A touch of olive oil ensures a golden, crispy exterior, while the tender interior bursts with zesty notes of garlic and lemon juice. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal, these falafel balls come together in just under an hour (plus soaking time) and are ideal for stuffing into pita bread, atop a fresh salad, or paired with creamy tahini sauce for dipping. With no added fat from frying, this recipe is a guilt-free way to enjoy the bold, vibrant flavors of classic falafel in every bite!

Nutriscore Rating: 75/100

Prep Time:20 mins

Cook Time:25 mins

Total Time:45 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 250 grams Dried chickpeas
• 1 teaspoon Baking soda
• 1 medium, chopped Onion
• 3 large, minced Garlic cloves
• 25 grams, chopped Fresh parsley
• 25 grams, chopped Fresh cilantro
• 1 tablespoon Ground cumin
• 1 tablespoon Ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon Salt
• 0.5 teaspoon Black pepper
• 1 teaspoon Baking powder
• 2 tablespoons Olive oil
• 2 tablespoons Lemon juice

Directions

Step 1

Rinse the dried chickpeas and soak them in water with 1 teaspoon of baking soda for at least 12 hours or overnight. Ensure the water covers the chickpeas by a few inches as they will expand.

Step 2

After soaking, drain and rinse the chickpeas thoroughly.

Step 3

In a food processor, combine the soaked chickpeas, chopped onion, minced garlic, chopped parsley, and chopped cilantro. Pulse until the mixture is finely ground but not pureed. Be careful not to over process as the mixture should still have a bit of texture.

Step 4

Add ground cumin, ground coriander, salt, black pepper, baking powder, olive oil, and lemon juice to the chickpea mixture. Pulse again until everything is just combined.

Step 5

Transfer the mixture to a bowl, cover, and refrigerate for about 1 hour. This helps the mixture firm up and develop flavors.

Step 6

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

Step 7

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with a small amount of olive oil.

Step 8

Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of the mixture and form them into small balls with your hands. Place each falafel ball onto the prepared baking sheet.

Step 9

Lightly brush the tops of the falafel balls with a bit more olive oil to promote browning.

Step 10

Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, turning them halfway through, until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside.

Step 11

Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving.

Step 12

Serve the falafel balls warm, with a side of tahini sauce or in pita bread with fresh veggies.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(555.2g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1329.2

Total Fat 46.4g	0%
Saturated Fat 6.2g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 2.7g
Cholesterol 0mg	0%
Sodium 4177.7mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 187.4g	0%
Dietary Fiber 50.2g	0%
Total Sugars 36.0g
Protein 54.2g	0%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 492.6mg	0%
Iron 25.1mg	0%
Potassium 3085.6mg	0%

*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: 30.2%

Protein: 15.7%

Carbs: 54.2%