Homemade Falafel (Pan-Fried or Baked)

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, cover the chickpeas with 3 inches of water and let sit overnight. The chickpeas will double or triple in size.
2. Drain the chickpeas. Line a baking sheet with paper towels and spread the chickpeas on top. Top with additional paper towels and press gently to dry. Allow to sit for up to 3 hours to further dry.
3. Pulse the chickpeas in a food processor until finely chopped. Transfer half to a large bowl. Add the herbs, onion, garlic, and seasoning to the food processor with the remaining chickpeas and process until fully combined and pasty. Mix into the chopped chickpeas.
4. Cover the mixing bowl and refrigerate for 1-2 hours to allow the mixture to firm up. You can skip this step if desired, but the falafel will be more prone to breaking apart while they cook.
5. If pan-frying: Heat 1” of oil in a large skillet over medium-high.
6. Using a cookie or ice cream scoop, scoop out small balls of the falafel mixture, about 2 tablespoons in size. Once the oil is hot, add as many falafel to the pan as can easily fit without overcrowding-- usually 4-5.
7. Fry until crisp and deeply browned on the outside and cooked through inside, about 6 minutes, flipping once halfway through. Transfer to a paper towel lined plate to absorb excess oil and sprinkle with additional kosher salt before serving.
8. If baking: Preheat oven to 375°F. Generously oil a baking sheet and turn until fully covered. It should take about 1/4 cup of oil. Place the baking sheet on the middle rack of the oven to heat as the oven preheats.
9. Using a cookie or ice cream scoop, scoop out small balls of the falafel mixture, about 2 tablespoons in size. When the oven is preheated, gently place the falafel on the hot baking sheet. Bake until crisp and deeply browned on the outside and cooked through inside, about 25-30 minutes, gently flipping once halfway through. Transfer to a paper towel lined plate to absorb excess oil and sprinkle with additional kosher salt before serving.