Cumin-Crusted Baked Falafel with Tahini Sauce

These cumin-crusted baked falafel are a delicious and easy way to enjoy this classic Middle Eastern dish. The falafel are made with a combination of chickpeas, onion, garlic, cumin, coriander, salt, and pepper. They are then coated in a mixture of olive oil and cumin and baked until golden brown. The falafel are served with a tahini sauce for dipping.

Falafel is a Middle Eastern dish that has been enjoyed for centuries. The first recorded recipe for falafel dates back to the 10th century, and the dish has since become popular all over the world. Falafel is typically made with a combination of chickpeas, onion, garlic, and spices. The mixture is then formed into balls and fried. Baked falafel is a healthier alternative to fried falafel, and it is just as delicious.

Prep time: 15 | Cook time: 25 | Serves: 4

Ingredients

• 1 cup dried chickpeas, soaked overnight
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup olive oil

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C).
2. Drain the chickpeas and rinse them well.
3. In a large bowl, combine the chickpeas, onion, garlic, cumin, coriander, salt, pepper, and olive oil.
4. Mix well to combine.
5. Shape the mixture into 1-inch balls.
6. Place the falafel on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
8. Serve immediately with tahini sauce.

Why It Works

• Soaking the chickpeas overnight helps to soften them and makes them easier to digest.
• Using a combination of onion and garlic adds flavor and depth to the falafel.
• The cumin and coriander give the falafel a warm and earthy flavor.
• Baking the falafel instead of frying them results in a healthier and more crispy falafel.