Baked Falafel Balls with Tahini Sauce

Baked Falafel Balls with Tahini Sauce are a delicious, wholesome twist on the traditional fried falafel. Made with chickpeas, fresh herbs, and aromatic spices, these golden balls are baked to perfection for a lighter, healthier alternative without sacrificing flavor.

Paired with creamy tahini sauce, they create a perfect balance of texture and taste—crispy on the outside, tender on the inside. I love this recipe because it’s simple, nutritious, and versatile. Whether served as an appetizer, in a salad, or inside a pita, these baked falafel balls are perfect for anyone craving Middle Eastern-inspired flavors.

Why I Love This Recipe

This recipe is a healthier take on a classic favorite. Baking instead of frying reduces oil while keeping the falafel crispy and flavorful. I love the combination of chickpeas, garlic, onion, parsley, and spices, which creates a vibrant and aromatic profile.

The creamy tahini sauce elevates the dish, adding a nutty, slightly tangy flavor that complements the falafel perfectly. It’s easy to make, nutritious, and ideal for meal prepping or entertaining guests.

Why This Dish is a Must-Try

Baked falafel is a must-try because it’s packed with protein, fiber, and flavor while being vegetarian and gluten-friendly when paired with the right ingredients. It’s versatile enough to be served as a snack, part of a mezze platter, or a filling for sandwiches and bowls.

Plus, it’s lighter than traditional fried versions, making it a healthier, guilt-free option that doesn’t compromise on taste or texture.

Recipe Details

• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Servings: 4 (approx. 12 falafel balls)
• Calories: ~180 kcal per 3 falafel balls with tahini sauce
• Cuisine: Middle Eastern
• Course: Appetizer / Snack / Side

Ingredients

For Falafel:

• 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup fresh parsley
• 1/2 cup fresh cilantro
• 2 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp ground coriander
• 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 2-3 tbsp flour (or chickpea flour)
• 2 tbsp olive oil (for brushing)

For Tahini Sauce:

• 1/4 cup tahini
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• 1-2 tbsp water (to thin)
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• Salt to taste

Simple Cooking Directions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a food processor, blend chickpeas, onion, garlic, parsley, cilantro, and spices until combined but slightly coarse.
3. Stir in flour until mixture holds together.
4. Shape into small balls or patties and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Brush lightly with olive oil and bake for 25 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden brown.
6. Mix tahini, lemon juice, garlic, water, and salt to make the sauce. Serve warm.

Step-by-Step Recipe Preparation

1. Prepare Ingredients: Drain chickpeas and roughly chop onion, garlic, parsley, and cilantro.
2. Blend Falafel Mixture: In a food processor, pulse chickpeas, onion, garlic, herbs, cumin, coriander, cayenne, salt, and pepper until well combined but still slightly coarse. Avoid over-blending.
3. Add Flour: Mix in 2–3 tablespoons of flour to bind the mixture. Adjust if mixture feels too wet.
4. Shape Falafel: Form the mixture into 12 evenly sized balls or small patties.
5. Prepare Baking Sheet: Line a baking tray with parchment paper and lightly brush falafel balls with olive oil.
6. Bake: Bake in preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 25 minutes, flipping halfway through for even browning.
7. Prepare Tahini Sauce: In a bowl, whisk together tahini, lemon juice, minced garlic, water, and salt until smooth. Adjust thickness with water if needed.
8. Serve: Plate baked falafel balls with tahini sauce for dipping or drizzle sauce over falafel.

How to Serve

• Serve warm with tahini sauce on the side for dipping.
• Add to pita bread with fresh vegetables and pickles for a sandwich.
• Serve as part of a Mediterranean platter with hummus, olives, and fresh salad.
• Sprinkle with sesame seeds or fresh herbs for presentation.

Additional Recipe Tips

• Use canned chickpeas for convenience or soak and cook dried chickpeas for a more authentic texture.
• Don’t over-process the mixture; a slightly coarse texture helps keep falafel from becoming mushy.
• Brushing falafel with olive oil ensures a golden, crispy exterior.
• Fresh herbs are key for bright flavor; avoid dried if possible.

Variations for This Recipe

• Spicy Falafel: Add more cayenne or chopped jalapeño.
• Cheesy Falafel: Mix in feta or grated halloumi for extra flavor.
• Herb Variations: Swap parsley and cilantro with dill or mint.
• Gluten-Free: Use chickpea flour exclusively.
• Mini Falafel Bites: Make smaller falafel balls for appetizers or party platters.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Refrigerate cooked falafel in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze baked falafel balls in a single layer on a tray for 1 hour, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 1 month. Reheat in oven for 10–15 minutes until crisp.
• Tahini Sauce: Best served fresh; store in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Special Equipment Needed

• Food processor or blender
• Baking tray with parchment paper
• Mixing bowls
• Spoon or hands for shaping falafel balls
• Whisk for tahini sauce

FAQ

Q1: Can I bake falafel without oil?
A: Brushing with a small amount of olive oil helps achieve crispiness, but you can skip it for a lower-fat version; they will be slightly softer.

Q2: Can I make falafel without a food processor?
A: Yes, mash chickpeas with a fork or potato masher, but it will require more effort to mix ingredients evenly.

Q3: Can I make this vegan?
A: Absolutely! Both falafel and tahini sauce are naturally vegan.

Q4: Can I use dried chickpeas?
A: Yes, soak overnight and cook until tender before using. Avoid canned chickpeas if you want a firmer texture.

Q5: How do I prevent falafel from falling apart?
A: Ensure enough flour is added to bind, and avoid over-processing the chickpeas.

Conclusion

Baked Falafel Balls with Tahini Sauce are a healthy, flavorful, and versatile dish perfect for any occasion. They are packed with protein, fiber, and aromatic spices while remaining light and easy to prepare.

Pairing them with creamy tahini elevates the flavor and presentation, making them ideal as appetizers, snacks, or in sandwiches. With simple ingredients, minimal cleanup, and endless serving possibilities, this baked version of falafel is a must-try for anyone craving authentic Middle Eastern flavors in a healthier, convenient form.