Oven-Baked Falafel Burgers with Fresh Herbs
These healthy, 7-ingredient falafel burgers are baked until perfectly crisp on the outside and tender inside. They're vegan, gluten-free, and delicious served in pita or over a salad.
- Prep20 min
- Cook40 min
- Total1h
- DifficultyEasy
- Servings4
Falafel burgers are a fantastic way to enjoy the flavors of Middle Eastern cuisine in a convenient, handheld form. This version is baked instead of fried, making it lighter and easier to prepare, while still delivering that satisfying crunch and herby goodness.
The recipe relies on simple pantry staples like chickpeas, fresh parsley, and ground nuts to create a hearty patty that holds together beautifully. Whether you serve them in pita with your favorite toppings or crumbled over a salad, these burgers are sure to become a weeknight favorite.
Ingredients
For serving (optional)
Converted amounts are rounded.
Method
- In a food processor, combine the parsley, garlic, lemon juice, cumin, and a generous pinch of salt and pepper. Process until the mixture is finely chopped and well combined.
- Add the drained chickpeas and pulse a few times until they are incorporated but still slightly chunky. You want to keep some texture, so avoid over-processing.
- Transfer the mixture to a large bowl. Add the ground nuts (or oat flour) and mix with your hands or a spatula until a loose dough forms that is firm enough to hold together. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed—you might want a little extra salt.
- Divide the dough into 4 equal portions. Shape each portion into a patty about 1/2-inch thick. Place the patties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or foil, and refrigerate or freeze for 15 minutes to firm up.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F.
- Optional step for extra crispness: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat with 2 tablespoons of olive or avocado oil. Once hot, add the patties and cook until golden brown on one side, about 3-4 minutes. Carefully flip and cook the other side for another 3-4 minutes until golden. Return the patties to the baking sheet.
- Bake the patties for 30-40 minutes, flipping them halfway through to ensure even cooking. The longer you bake, the firmer they become.
- Serve warm, wrapped in pita or chard leaves with your choice of sauces and toppings. Alternatively, serve them over a salad and drizzle with the garlic sauce as a dressing.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container, layered with parchment paper, in the fridge for several days. For longer storage, freeze them.
💡 Tips
- If the dough feels too wet, add a bit more ground nuts or oat flour to help it bind.
- For a gluten-free option, ensure your oat flour is certified gluten-free.
- These burgers freeze well; place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer to a bag or container.
Inspired by a recipe from Minimalist Baker