30-Minute Falafel Recipe With Roasted Garlic Mayo

Name: 30-Minute Falafel Recipe With Roasted Garlic Mayo
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 5
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Ingredients: 2 cups canned chickpeas or garbanzos (drained and skins removed); 1 piece red onion (finely chopped); 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley; 4 cloves garlic (finely chopped); 2 pieces eggs (beaten); 1 tablespoon ground cumin; 2 teaspoon ground coriander; 1 teaspoon salt; 2 teaspoons lemon juice; 1 teaspoon baking powder; a pinch of ground black pepper; 2 cups fine breadcrumbs; 1 cup Lady’s Roasted Garlic Mayo

Falafel serves as a smart go-to when meals start to feel repetitive but you still want something filling and satisfying. It delivers that crisp, golden bite on the outside and a soft, herby center inside, making it a great alternative to chicken nuggets or other deep-fried bites. While traditional versions use soaked dried chickpeas, this homemade falafel recipe keeps things practical with canned chickpeas, so there’s no need to prep the night before. In just 30 minutes, you get a fresh, flavorful dish that still hits that same comforting spot.

30 min.
5 People
Easy
Budget

Ingredients

2 cups canned chickpeas or garbanzos (drained and skins removed)
1 piece red onion (finely chopped)
1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
4 cloves garlic (finely chopped)
2 pieces eggs (beaten)
1 tablespoon ground cumin
2 teaspoon ground coriander
1 teaspoon salt
2 teaspoons lemon juice
1 teaspoon baking powder
a pinch of ground black pepper
2 cups fine breadcrumbs
1 cup Lady’s Roasted Garlic Mayo

Cooking Method

Prepare the Chickpea Base Time: 3 minutes Mash chickpeas in a food processor until coarse and slightly grainy. Alternatively, mash them manually using a fork or potato masher. Tip: Avoid over-processing the chickpeas into a paste. A slightly chunky texture keeps the falafel light and not dense.
Mix the Falafel Mixture Time: 4 minutes Transfer mashed chickpeas to a bowl. Add red onion, parsley, garlic, eggs, cumin, coriander, salt, lemon juice, baking powder, black pepper, and breadcrumbs. Mix until well combined and the mixture holds together when pressed.
Shape the Falafel Time: 4 minutes Scoop about 2 tablespoons of the mixture and roll into a ball. Press lightly into a small patty to help it cook evenly. Repeat with the remaining mixture.
Cook the Falafel Time: 8 minutes Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Fry falafel in batches for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown and crisp. Drain on paper towels. Alternatively, air-fry for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway through. Tip: Do not overcrowd the pan or air fryer to ensure even browning and a crisp exterior.
Assemble and Serve Time: 1 minute Serve falafel warm with Lady's Choice Roasted Garlic Mayo drizzled on top or on the side. Enjoy in a sandwich, wrap, or over a fresh salad.

What Is Falafel?

Falafel is a Middle Eastern dish made from ground chickpeas blended with herbs, garlic, and spices, then shaped into balls or patties and fried until crisp. It’s known for its crunchy exterior and soft, flavorful center, often served with flatbread and a creamy falafel sauce like garlic mayo or tahini.

Should You Use Dried or Canned Chickpeas for Falafel?

Traditional Middle Eastern falafel uses soaked dried chickpeas for a lighter texture and signature green interior. However, canned chickpeas offer a quicker, more practical option. They cut down prep time and make the dish easier to prepare for everyday cooking.

How to Serve Falafel

Serve the crispy bites in warm pita or flatbread like a shawarma wrap with fresh vegetables, pickles, and a generous drizzle of falafel sauce. You can also pair it with rice for a hearty meal or serve it over salads and grain bowls. For sharing, build a platter with grilled chicken, hummus, and pita on the side.