Baked Falafel with Tzatziki Sauce Recipe
Discover the delicious world of Baked Falafel with Tzatziki Sauce through this comprehensive guide. Loaded with flavors, this recipe offers a healthier twist to the traditional deep-fried version without compromising on the taste. Whether you are a seasoned chef or a cooking novice, this Baked Falafel with Tzatziki Sauce recipe is straightforward, ensuring you can bring a bit of the Mediterranean to your table with ease.
Introduction to Baked Falafel with Tzatziki Sauce
Falafel, a beloved Middle Eastern dish, has won the hearts of food enthusiasts worldwide. Traditionally, these chickpea balls are deep-fried to perfection, offering a crunchy exterior with a soft, flavorful interior. However, the baked version presents a healthier alternative, appealing to those mindful of their oil intake. Paired with a creamy, tangy tzatziki sauce, this dish balances richness and refreshment in every bite.
Why Opt for Baked Falafel?
Choosing to bake falafel instead of frying it significantly reduces the dish’s overall fat content, making it a heart-friendly option. Baking falafel can also be considered easier and less messy than frying, making clean-up a breeze. With the right blend of herbs and spices, you won’t miss the deep-fried taste, as the baked version still promises a delightful crispness and flavor-packed profile.
Ingredients for Baked Falafel
Creating Baked Falafel with Tzatziki Sauce at home requires simple, wholesome ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 cups of dried chickpeas, soaked overnight
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2-3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (plus more for brushing)
Ingredients for Tzatziki Sauce
For the Tzatziki Sauce, gather the following:
- 1 cup Greek yogurt
- 1 cucumber, grated and drained
- 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon dill, finely chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Preparing the Baked Falafel
To begin, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare a baking sheet by lightly greasing it with olive oil. In a food processor, combine the soaked chickpeas, onion, garlic, parsley, cilantro, cumin, coriander, cayenne, salt, and pepper. Pulse until the mixture is finely ground but not pureed, ensuring some texture remains. Transfer to a bowl, stir in baking soda and olive oil, and let the mixture sit for 10-15 minutes.
With damp hands, form the mixture into small balls or patties and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Brush the tops with a bit more olive oil to encourage browning. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crisp.
Creating the Tzatziki Sauce
While the falafel bakes, prepare the tzatziki sauce. In a medium bowl, mix together the Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, garlic, olive oil, dill, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Adjust the seasonings according to taste and refrigerate until ready to serve. The sauce’s flavors meld beautifully when given time to sit.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your Baked Falafel with Tzatziki Sauce on a bed of greens, inside a pita pocket, or alongside a vibrant salad for a complete meal. The falafel can also be topped with diced tomatoes, red onion, or any other vegetables of your choice for added freshness and crunch.
