Easy Vegan Protein Falafel

Enjoy the authentic flavors of the Middle East with our Easy Vegan Protein Falafel recipe, enhanced with the goodness of unflavored super proteins protein powder. These crispy, flavorful protein falafel balls are perfect for stuffing into pita bread, topping salads, or enjoying on their own as a delicious snack or appetizer.

Watch the video

Why You’ll Love This Vegan Protein Falafel Recipe

Protein-Packed: Boosted with unflavored super proteins protein powder, these falafel balls provide a satisfying dose of plant-based protein to fuel your day.
Authentic Flavors: Enjoy the authentic flavors of the Middle East with crispy falafel patties seasoned with cumin, parsley, garlic, and fresh herbs.
Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, this recipe is easy to whip up in no time, perfect for busy weeknights or quick meals.
Versatile: Serve falafel as a filling for pita sandwiches, atop salads, or as a tasty appetizer or snack, offering endless possibilities for mealtime enjoyment.
Crispy and Delicious: Baked until golden brown and crispy on the outside while remaining tender and flavorful on the inside, offering a satisfying texture with every bite.
Customizable: Adjust the seasonings and spices to suit your taste preferences, adding extra heat or herbs for a personalized touch.
Nutritious: Made with wholesome ingredients like chickpeas, fresh herbs, and protein powder, these protein falafel are not only delicious but also nutritious and wholesome.

The Importance of Draining and Rinsing Chickpeas for Protein Falafel

When making protein falafel, proper preparation of the chickpeas is essential for achieving the perfect texture and flavor. Draining and rinsing chickpeas thoroughly before use not only helps remove excess sodium and any unwanted debris but also ensures the falafel hold together well during baking. Here’s why this step is crucial:

Removes Excess Sodium: Canned chickpeas are typically soaked and cooked in a saline solution to preserve them. Draining and rinsing the chickpeas helps remove this excess sodium, preventing the falafel from becoming too salty and allowing you to control the seasoning more effectively.
Improves Texture: Rinsing the chickpeas helps wash away any starchy residue that may cling to them, resulting in a smoother texture for the falafel mixture. This ensures that the falafel hold together properly when shaped and baked, resulting in crispy exteriors and tender interiors.
Enhances Flavor: By rinsing the chickpeas, you can remove any off-flavors or metallic tastes that may be present due to the canning process. This allows the natural nutty flavor of the chickpeas to shine through, enhancing the overall taste of the protein falafel.
Promotes Digestibility: Rinsing chickpeas can help reduce the presence of oligosaccharides, a type of carbohydrate that may cause digestive discomfort in some individuals. Properly prepared chickpeas are easier to digest, ensuring a pleasant eating experience for all.

To ensure the success of your protein falafel recipe, be sure to drain and rinse the chickpeas thoroughly before incorporating them into the mixture. This simple yet essential step sets the foundation for delicious, flavorful falafel!

Serves: 4

Preparation Time: 15 min

Cooking Time: 25 min

Ingredients

1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 small onion, finely chopped
4 tbsp Unflavored Super Proteins protein powder
2 tbsp all-purpose flour or chickpea flour
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp ground coriander
1/2 tsp baking powder
Salt and pepper, to taste
Olive oil, for baking

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly grease with olive oil.
Drain and rinse the chickpeas. In a food processor, combine the chickpeas, parsley, garlic, and onion. Pulse until the mixture is finely chopped but not pureed. You want the mixture to have some texture.
Transfer the chickpea mixture to a mixing bowl and add the unflavored super proteins protein powder, flour, ground cumin, ground coriander, baking powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine. Add a bit of water if needed.
Using your hands, shape the mixture into small golf-ball-sized balls and flatten slightly to form patties. Place the formed falafel patties on the baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Drizzle with oil and bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the falafel are golden brown and crispy on the outside.
Once baked, remove the falafel from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy these delicious Vegan Baked Falafel with your favorite dipping sauce, tahini dressing, or stuffed into pita bread with fresh veggies and hummus.

Plant-Based Ways to Serve Protein Falafel

Protein falafel offers a versatile and delicious base for a variety of plant-based meals and snacks. Here are some creative and wholesome ways to enjoy these protein-packed falafel:

Falafel Pita Sandwiches: Stuff warm protein falafel into whole grain pita pockets along with crisp lettuce, sliced tomatoes, cucumbers, and a dollop of creamy tahini sauce. This classic combination makes for a satisfying and portable meal that’s perfect for lunch or dinner.
Falafel Buddha Bowls: Build a nourishing buddha bowl by layering cooked quinoa or brown rice with protein falafel, roasted vegetables (such as sweet potatoes, cauliflower, and Brussels sprouts), leafy greens, and a drizzle of lemon-tahini dressing. This colorful and nutrient-rich bowl provides a balanced and wholesome meal.
Falafel Salad Toppers: Crumble protein falafel over a bed of mixed greens or your favorite salad greens for an extra boost of plant-based protein and flavor. Top with diced avocado, cherry tomatoes, sliced radishes, and a tangy vinaigrette dressing for a refreshing and satisfying salad.
Falafel Mezze Platter: Create a Mediterranean-inspired mezze platter featuring protein falafel alongside hummus, tabbouleh, olives, cucumber slices, roasted red peppers, and whole grain pita wedges. This flavorful and shareable spread is perfect for entertaining or enjoying as a light meal.
Falafel Appetizers: Serve protein falafel as bite-sized appetizers at your next gathering. Skewer falafel balls with toothpicks and serve with a side of creamy tzatziki (made with coconut yogurt) sauce or spicy harissa dip for dipping. These flavorful bites are sure to be a hit with guests.
Falafel Wraps or Rolls: Roll up protein falafel along with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, cucumber slices, and a drizzle of tahini sauce in a whole grain wrap or lavash bread for a portable and satisfying meal on the go.
Falafel Power Bowls: Create a protein-packed power bowl by combining protein falafel with cooked quinoa or farro, steamed vegetables (such as broccoli, carrots, and kale), sliced avocado, and a sprinkle of hemp seeds or toasted nuts for added crunch and nutrition.

Incorporate protein falafel into your plant-based meal rotation for a delicious and nutritious way to enjoy the flavors of the Middle East. With these versatile serving suggestions, you’ll never run out of delicious ways to enjoy this protein-packed favorite!

Tips for Perfecting Your Protein Falafel:

Proper Consistency: Ensure the falafel mixture is well-combined but still retains some texture. If the mixture is too wet, add additional flour or breadcrumbs. If it’s too dry, a splash of water or lemon juice can help bind the ingredients together.
Uniform Shape: For even cooking, shape the falafel patties into uniform-sized balls or discs. This helps them cook evenly and ensures a consistent texture throughout.
Chill the Mixture: Before shaping the falafel, refrigerate the mixture for at least 30 minutes. Chilling helps firm up the mixture, making it easier to shape into patties and preventing them from falling apart during cooking.
Cooking Temperature: Whether baking or frying, make sure the cooking oil or oven is preheated to the proper temperature before adding the falafel. This helps them cook evenly and develop a crispy exterior.
Don’t Crowd the Pan: When frying falafel, avoid overcrowding the pan. Cook them in batches, leaving enough space between each falafel to ensure they crisp up evenly and don’t stick together.
Test for Doneness: To check if the falafel are cooked through, insert a toothpick or skewer into the center of one. It should come out clean with no wet batter clinging to it. If not, continue cooking for a few more minutes.
Serve Immediately: Falafel are best enjoyed fresh and hot, so serve them immediately after cooking for the crispiest texture and the most vibrant flavors. If making ahead, reheat them briefly in the oven or toaster oven before serving.
Get Creative: Don’t be afraid to experiment with different herbs, spices, and flavorings to customize your falafel to your taste preferences. Additions like fresh mint, ground sumac, or harissa paste can add exciting new dimensions to the classic recipe.

Follow these tips to ensure your protein falafel turn out perfectly every time, crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and bursting with delicious flavor!

Storage Tips for Your Protein Falafel:

Refrigeration: Store any leftover protein falafel in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Place a piece of parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking and maintain freshness.
Freezing: For longer-term storage, protein falafel can be frozen. Arrange cooled falafel in a single layer on a baking sheet and place in the freezer until firm. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw frozen falafel overnight in the refrigerator or reheat them directly from frozen in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and crispy. Alternatively, reheat them in a lightly oiled skillet over medium heat until warmed through and crisp.
Avoid Moisture: To prevent protein falafel from becoming soggy, avoid storing them in sealed containers while still warm. Allow them to cool completely before transferring to storage containers to prevent condensation buildup.
Meal Prep: Prepare a batch of protein falafel ahead of time for quick and convenient meals throughout the week. Simply store them in the refrigerator or freezer as directed and reheat as needed for easy lunches, dinners, or snacks.

By following these storage tips, you can enjoy protein falafel anytime, whether freshly made or from the freezer, for a delicious and satisfying plant-based meal option!