Super Bowl Food Crispy Falafel Nuggets

Name: Super Bowl Food Crispy Falafel Nuggets
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed; 2 cloves garlic; 1 small onion, chopped; 1 tsp ground cumin; 1 tsp ground coriander; 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped; 1/2 cup bread crumbs; 1/4 cup chickpea flour; Salt and pepper to taste; Oil for frying

Highlighted under: Comfort Ideas

I absolutely love making crispy falafel nuggets for Super Bowl gatherings! They’re not just delicious but also a hit with everyone. There’s something so satisfying about that golden-brown crunch on the outside while the inside remains wonderfully soft and flavorful. I use a blend of herbs and spices to elevate the taste, making them perfect for dipping in your favorite sauce. Whether you serve them as an appetizer or a main dish, I can guarantee these nuggets will be a crowd-pleaser!

Created by

Marnie Calder

Last updated on 2026-01-11T18:33:04.745Z

When I first experimented with making falafel, I was amazed at how versatile they can be. I blended chickpeas with garlic, onion, and a secret mix of spices, which resulted in an explosion of flavors. To ensure the nuggets were crispy, I found that using a mix of bread crumbs and chickpea flour as a coating really made a difference. My friends couldn’t get enough!

One tip that I absolutely swear by is to let the formed nuggets chill in the fridge for a bit before frying them. This helps them hold their shape while cooking and ensures a crispy exterior. I made a huge batch for a Super Bowl party last year, and they were the first thing to disappear!

        Why You'll Love These Nuggets
        Crispy on the outside with a soft, flavorful center
Loaded with herbs and spices that brighten every bite
Perfect for dipping into sauces or enjoying as is

      

The Role of Chickpeas

Chickpeas are the star ingredient in this recipe, providing not only a hearty texture but also a wealth of nutrients. When mashed, they lend moisture and a creamy consistency to the nuggets, which contrasts beautifully with the crispy exterior. Ensure the chickpeas are properly drained and rinsed to remove excess sodium and improve flavor. If you want to elevate the nutty taste further, consider using dried chickpeas that you've soaked and cooked until tender.

Using canned chickpeas can save you time, but be mindful of their consistency. If they appear too mushy, it could impact the texture of your nuggets. A little extra chickpea flour can help bind the mixture and maintain that desired shape when frying.

Spice Variations and Mixing Techniques

The blend of spices in this recipe is key to crafting falafel nuggets bursting with flavor. Experimenting with spices like paprika or garlic powder can introduce a different flavor profile. If you prefer a milder taste, you can decrease the amount of cayenne pepper or leave it out altogether. Alternatively, adding a pinch of smoked paprika can offer a delightful smoky undertone without compromising the overall balance.

While blending the mixture, pulse it until it reaches a coarse consistency; the goal is to maintain some texture rather than achieving a completely smooth paste. This gives the nuggets a delightful bite. If you find the mix to be too dry, a tablespoon of water can help achieve the right consistency without it becoming too wet.

Perfecting Your Frying Technique

Frying the nuggets is a crucial step, and maintaining the right oil temperature is essential for achieving that golden-brown crunch. Ideally, the oil should be heated to around 350°F (175°C). You can test the temperature by dropping a small piece of the mixture in; it should sizzle and rise to the surface immediately when ready. Frying in small batches not only prevents the temperature from dropping but also allows the nuggets to cook evenly.

To achieve the best results, keep an eye on the nuggets as they fry. They should turn golden brown after about 3-4 minutes per side. If they darken too quickly, reduce the heat slightly to avoid burning. After frying, draining them on paper towels will help absorb excess oil, keeping them crispy.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make the perfect falafel nuggets:

Ingredients

1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
2 cloves garlic
1 small onion, chopped
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp ground coriander
1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
1/2 cup bread crumbs
1/4 cup chickpea flour
Salt and pepper to taste
Oil for frying

Make sure to prepare all your ingredients before starting the cooking process for the best results!

Instructions

Here’s how to prepare your crispy falafel nuggets:

Prepare the Mixture

In a food processor, combine the chickpeas, garlic, onion, cumin, coriander, cayenne, parsley, cilantro, salt, and pepper. Pulse until a coarse mixture forms, being careful not to puree it.

Add Coating Ingredients

Transfer the mixture to a bowl and add the bread crumbs and chickpea flour. Mix well until combined. If the mixture feels too wet, add more chickpea flour.

Form Nuggets

Using your hands, form small nugget shapes from the mixture. Place them on a tray lined with parchment paper.

Chill the Nuggets

Refrigerate the formed nuggets for about 15 minutes to help them firm up.

Fry the Nuggets

Heat oil in a deep pan over medium heat. Carefully add the nuggets in batches, frying until golden brown for about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove and drain on paper towels.

Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce!

Pro Tips

For extra crunch, you can double coat the nuggets by dipping them in egg and then bread crumbs before frying.

Serving Suggestions

Serving these crispy falafel nuggets with an array of dips elevates the experience significantly. Consider offering classic options like tahini sauce or a zesty garlic yogurt dip. The contrast of flavors here enhances the taste and keeps each bite interesting. If you're feeling adventurous, try a spicy harissa sauce for a Mediterranean twist that will leave your guests reaching for more.

For a fully rounded meal, these nuggets can be nestled in pita bread with fresh vegetables like cucumber and tomato, complemented by a drizzle of your favorite sauce. This transforms the nuggets from a snack into a satisfying meal that can cater to your guests' varying appetites.

Storage and Make-Ahead Options

These falafel nuggets can be made ahead of time, which is perfect for entertaining. After forming and chilling them, they can be frozen on a tray and then transferred to a freezer-safe bag. When ready to cook, simply fry them straight from the freezer—just be sure to adjust the frying time slightly, as they may need an extra minute or two to become golden and crisp.

In terms of storage, cooked nuggets can be kept in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, consider baking them in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes. This helps restore the crispiness that may have been lost when they were initially cooked.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your nuggets aren't holding together during frying, it often means the mixture is too wet. This can be corrected by adding more chickpea flour or breadcrumbs until you reach a firmer consistency. Also, avoid overcrowding the pan while frying; too many nuggets at once can lead to steam instead of getting that perfect crisp.

On the other hand, if your nuggets turn out dry or dense, it could mean that they were overmixed or overcooked. Keeping a careful eye on frying times and not over-pulsing in the food processor can help maintain that desired texture. Remember, falafel nuggets are meant to be light and airy, so aim for a careful balance in preparation.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I bake these nuggets instead of frying them?

Yes, you can bake them at 400°F (200°C) for about 20 minutes, turning halfway through for even cooking.

→ What can I serve with the falafel nuggets?

They pair beautifully with tahini sauce, tzatziki, or a spicy sriracha mayo.

→ Can I make the mixture ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the mixture a day in advance, just keep it covered in the fridge until you're ready to fry.

→ Are these nuggets vegan?

Yes, they are entirely plant-based, making them perfect for vegan diets.