Best Vegan Gluten Free Falafel Recipe for Easy Meals

Falafel is a beloved Middle Eastern dish, and when made vegan and gluten-free, it becomes a versatile delight suitable for almost any dietary need. If you’ve been searching for the best vegan gluten-free falafel recipe, you’re in the right place!

This recipe balances crispy exteriors with tender, herbaceous interiors, offering a perfect snack, appetizer, or main course. Whether you’re gluten intolerant, vegan, or simply looking for a healthier alternative, these falafels bring a satisfying crunch and rich flavor without compromising on texture or taste.

Using simple, wholesome ingredients like chickpeas, fresh herbs, and gluten-free flours, this recipe is easy to prepare and customize. Plus, you can bake or fry these falafels depending on your preference for a lighter or crispier result.

Ready to wow your taste buds? Let’s dive into the details of this fantastic recipe that you’ll want to make again and again!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This falafel recipe is a game-changer for several reasons. First, it’s 100% vegan and gluten-free, making it an inclusive option for many dietary restrictions.

Unlike traditional falafel recipes that often incorporate wheat flour, we’ve swapped it out for gluten-free alternatives that help bind the ingredients without affecting taste.

Second, the falafels come out perfectly crispy on the outside and moist on the inside, thanks to the right balance of chickpeas and herbs. No pre-cooked chickpeas here — we use soaked dried chickpeas to achieve the ideal texture.

Finally, it’s incredibly versatile. You can pan-fry, deep-fry, or bake the falafel balls, depending on your preferred cooking method and health goals.

Serve them with your favorite sauces, in wraps, or over salads for a satisfying meal.

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups dried chickpeas (soaked overnight)
• 1 small onion, roughly chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup fresh parsley, packed
• 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, packed
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 3 tablespoons chickpea flour (or other gluten-free flour like brown rice flour)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Olive oil, for frying or brushing if baking

Equipment

• Food processor (essential for blending the chickpeas and herbs)
• Large bowl for mixing
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Baking sheet lined with parchment paper (if baking)
• Frying pan or deep fryer (if frying)
• Slotted spoon (for removing falafel from oil)
• Mixing spoon or spatula

Instructions

1. Soak the chickpeas: Place the dried chickpeas in a large bowl and cover with plenty of water. Let soak overnight or for at least 12 hours. They will expand significantly, so use a large bowl.
2. Drain and rinse: After soaking, drain the chickpeas and rinse well under cold water.
3. Prepare the mixture: In your food processor, add the soaked chickpeas, chopped onion, garlic, parsley, and cilantro. Pulse until a coarse, grainy mixture forms. Avoid pureeing into a paste; the texture should be slightly chunky.
4. Add spices and flour: Transfer the mixture to a large bowl. Stir in the cumin, coriander, smoked paprika, cayenne (if using), baking powder, chickpea flour, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly. The mixture should hold together when pressed. If too wet, add a tablespoon more chickpea flour.
5. Chill the mixture: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This helps the flavors meld and firms up the mixture for easier shaping.
6. Shape the falafels: Using your hands or a falafel scoop, form the mixture into balls or patties about 1.5 inches in diameter. Set aside on a plate.
7. Cook the falafels:
   • Frying: Heat 1-2 inches of olive oil in a deep pan over medium heat. Fry falafels in batches until golden brown and crisp, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
   • Baking: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Place falafels on a lined baking sheet and lightly brush or spray with olive oil. Bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway, until crisp and golden.
8. Serve warm: Enjoy immediately with your favorite dips or as part of a larger meal.

Tips & Variations

“If your falafel mixture feels too crumbly, add a teaspoon of water or a bit more chickpea flour. For extra flavor, try adding a pinch of ground cinnamon or sumac.”

• Herb swaps: Use dill or mint in place of cilantro for a fresh twist.
• Spice it up: Add a chopped jalapeño or a teaspoon of harissa paste for heat.
• Cooking method: Air-fry your falafels for a less oily but still crispy result.
• Binding alternatives: If chickpea flour is unavailable, use ground oats (gluten-free certified) or tapioca starch.
• Make it a meal: Combine with a gluten-free pita and vegan tahini sauce for a complete dish.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

These falafels are incredibly versatile and pair wonderfully with many dishes. Serve them in a gluten-free wrap or pita with fresh vegetables, pickled turnips, and a drizzle of tahini or vegan yogurt sauce for a classic Middle Eastern experience.

For a lighter option, add falafels atop a crisp green salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and a lemon vinaigrette. They also make fantastic appetizers when served with dipping sauces like a zesty harissa mayo or a cooling cucumber mint sauce.

Looking for more healthy vegan dishes? Check out our Jamaican Minced Beef Recipes for a flavorful plant-based twist, or try the Low Sodium Hummus Recipe as a perfect falafel dip.

Conclusion

This vegan gluten-free falafel recipe is a must-try for anyone looking to enjoy the authentic flavors of falafel without compromising dietary preferences. The combination of herbs, spices, and perfectly textured chickpeas creates a dish that’s both satisfying and nutritious.

Whether you’re making a quick snack or preparing a full meal, these falafels deliver on taste and texture every time.

Don’t be afraid to experiment with herbs, spices, and cooking methods to suit your palate. And if you love this recipe, explore other creative vegan dishes like the Julie Marie Eats Recipes for more inspiration.

Happy cooking and enjoy your delicious falafel adventure!

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