I’m always trying (and on the lookout) for plant-based variations of foods I love—both for Lenten reasons and to keep my calories lower. I find the plant-based variety of food to be budget-friendly, which may vary depending on where one lives. This one is a hit with my family, even the picky eaters among us. It also dispels the myth that meat-free necessarily means bland. These vegan falafel burgers are packed with flavor.
What are these vegan falafel burgers?
Falafel has a rich history, originating in the Middle East and fast becoming a beloved street food. The idea of transforming it into a burger is genius, making it a versatile meal that fits into any barbecue or casual dinner.
Main Ingredients Needed for a Vegan Falafel Burger
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- Chickpeas – the chickpeas provide the base of the recipe and are the protein replacement in the burger. I love the meaty taste of chickpeas.
- Scallions – give the dish a mild onion flavor without overpowering it.
- Parsley – brings a bright and fresh taste that balances out the other spices.
- Spices – Smoked paprika and ground cumin are key. The smoked paprika gives the falafel a lovely, slightly smoky depth, and the cumin adds a warm, earthy flavor.
- Flour – While I use eggs as a binder for the non-vegan patties, flour is the binder of choice for vegan patties. It will help the patties to retain their shape and hold well with the pita bread.
- To serve, I always like to have warm pita bread on hand. It’s a perfect vessel for these patties. We also love to pile on fresh vegetables and pickles, and I usually have an excellent store-bought hummus ready, though homemade hummus works wonderfully, too, if you have the time.
Delicious vegan falafel burgers
Ingredients
- 1 14- oz. can chickpeas rinsed and drained
- 2 scallions diced
- 1/2 cup fresh parsley finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 2-3 tablespoons flour
- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
- Warm pita bread for serving
- Hummus store-bought or homemade for serving
- Fresh vegetables and pickles for serving
Instructions
Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F. Line a baking pan with parchment paper.
Prepare the Chickpea Mixture:
- Mash the chickpeas using a fork or potato masher in a large bowl until they form a coarse paste.
- Add the diced scallions, chopped parsley, smoked paprika, ground cumin, and flour. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined. If the mixture is too wet, add a bit more flour.
Form the Patties:
- Using your hands, shape the chickpea mixture into small patties, about 2-3 inches in diameter.
Bake the Patties:
- Transfer the patties to the prepared baking pan.
- Placein the oven to bake until golden-brown and crispy on both sides, approximately 20-25minutes, flipping once halfway through the cooking time.
Serve:
- Serve the chickpea patties warm with pita bread.
- Accompany with hummus, fresh vegetables, and pickles.
- Enjoy your delicious Chickpea Patties with Pita and Hummus!
What to serve with the vegan falafel burger
The recipe calls for pita bread, but you can also use gluten-free buns or even lettuce wraps if you prefer. When it comes to toppings, fresh vegetables like lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, and red onions are fantastic. A dollop of hummus adds creaminess, while pickles provide a delightful crunch.
We usually pair our vegan falafel burgers with sweet potato fries or a fresh green salad. Sometimes, we even make a tangy tahini sauce to drizzle over the top. The possibilities are endless!
Variations of Vegan Falafel Burgers
If you like spice, add chili powder or crushed red pepper flakes to the mixture. For an herb-infused twist, incorporate fresh cilantro or mint along with the parsley. If you need a gluten-free option, simply use a gluten-free flour blend instead of regular flour.
What I like about these falafel burgers
These falafel burgers are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Chickpeas are an excellent source of protein and fiber, while fresh herbs provide vitamins and antioxidants. Plus, since they’re baked and lightly fried, they’re much healthier than traditional deep-fried falafels.
I hope you try these vegan falafel burgers and enjoy them as much as my family does. They’re a fun, tasty way to incorporate more plant-based meals into your diet. If you make them, I’d love to hear how they turned out – feel free to share your experience in the comments below.
Happy cooking!