Super Bowl Food Crispy Falafel Nuggets

Name: Super Bowl Food Crispy Falafel Nuggets
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup dried chickpeas, soaked overnight; 1 small onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped; 1 tsp ground cumin; 1 tsp ground coriander; 1/2 tsp baking powder; Salt and pepper to taste; Oil for frying; Tahini sauce; Pita bread; Fresh vegetables

Highlighted under: Smart Ideas

I absolutely love indulging in crispy falafel nuggets on game day! Preparing these delicious bites is not only fun, but they also pack a flavorful punch with every bite. As I experimented with different spices, I found that the blend of cumin and coriander really elevates the taste, making these nuggets perfect for sharing. Whether served with tangy tahini sauce or nestled in a fresh pita, they are sure to be a hit at any gathering. Plus, they’re easy to make in advance, so you can focus on cheering for your team!

Created by

Marnie Calder

Last updated on 2026-01-11T19:10:37.215Z

When I first made crispy falafel nuggets, I was amazed at how easy it was to recreate this classic Middle Eastern dish at home. I tinkered with the ratios of chickpeas and herbs, and what I discovered was a recipe that yields nuggets with a delightful crunch and a tender interior. I found that soaking the chickpeas overnight is essential for achieving that perfect texture!

Another tip I stumbled upon was double-frying—and trust me, it makes a world of difference. The first fry cooks the falafel all the way through, while the second gives them an irresistible crispiness. Once I perfected this method, these nuggets became my go-to dish, especially for Super Bowl gatherings!

        Why You'll Love These Nuggets
        Crispy exterior with a soft, flavorful center
Packed with protein and plant-based goodness
Perfect for dipping in your favorite sauces

      

Creating the Perfect Texture

Achieving the right texture is crucial for these falafel nuggets. Blending the chickpeas and herbs to a coarse meal is essential; over-blending can result in a paste that's too dense and less crispy once fried. Aim for a consistency where you can still see small flecks of the herbs, which will contribute to both texture and flavor. If your mixture feels too wet, adding a small amount of flour can help bind it without compromising the flavor.

When shaping your nuggets, keep in mind that uniformity in size will ensure even cooking. Aim for about 1-2 tablespoons per nugget, which will allow them to cook through within the suggested time. If you find your mixture sticking to your hands while forming nuggets, wetting your hands slightly can help create smoother shapes. This overtly simple technique can make a significant difference in both cooking and overall presentation.

Frying Tips for Crispy Nuggets

The frying oil's temperature plays a vital role in achieving that much-desired crispiness. Ideally, heat the oil to around 350°F (175°C). You can test the readiness by dropping a small piece of the mixture in the oil; if it bubbles and sizzles immediately, you’re good to go. Fry the nuggets in batches to avoid crowding the pan. Overcrowding lowers the oil temperature, leading to soggy nuggets instead of the crispy bites you’re aiming for.

After frying, draining the nuggets on paper towels is a must. This helps remove excess oil and keeps the nuggets from becoming greasy. Allow them to cool slightly before serving, as they will crisp up more as they sit. I also recommend keeping them warm in a low-temperature oven if you're frying in batches, ensuring that every nugget is served hot and delicious.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make the most delicious falafel nuggets!

For the Falafel Nuggets

1 cup dried chickpeas, soaked overnight
1 small onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp ground coriander
1/2 tsp baking powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Oil for frying

For Serving

Tahini sauce
Pita bread
Fresh vegetables

Make sure to prep all the ingredients before you start cooking!

Instructions

Here’s how to make crispy falafel nuggets that everyone will love!

Prepare the Chickpeas

Drain and rinse the soaked chickpeas. Add them to a food processor along with the onion, garlic, parsley, cilantro, cumin, coriander, baking powder, salt, and pepper. Blend until you achieve a coarse meal texture.

Form the Nuggets

Take a small amount of the mixture (about 1-2 tablespoons) and shape it into nugget forms. Repeat until all the mixture is used.

Heat the Oil

In a deep pan, heat about an inch of oil over medium heat. You'll know it's ready when a small piece of bread bubbles up in the oil.

Fry the Nuggets

Fry the nuggets in batches for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown. Remove them and let drain on paper towels.

Serve

Serve the falafel nuggets hot with tahini sauce and enjoy them with pita and fresh veggies!

Enjoy your crispy falafel nuggets with dipping sauces and a side of fresh pita bread!

Pro Tips

Make sure not to overcrowd the pan while frying to maintain the temperature of the oil for an even, crispy texture.

Serving Suggestions

These falafel nuggets shine in various serving contexts. Serve them alongside a well-balanced selection of dipping sauces such as tangy tahini or spicy harissa for a delightful flavor contrast. You can also enhance the experience by offering a colorful array of fresh vegetables like cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and bell peppers for dipping. Consider arranging the platter with pita wedges for an interactive feast that encourages guests to mix and match their flavors.

For a heartier meal, try incorporating the falafel nuggets into a wrap alongside fresh greens, shredded carrots, and your choice of dressing. This not only elevates the presentation but also transforms them into a satisfying lunch or light dinner option. You can customize your wraps by adding pickled vegetables, giving a delightful crunch that contrasts with the soft nuggets.

Make-Ahead & Storage Tips

Making these falafel nuggets in advance can save you time on game day. Once shaped, you can freeze the nuggets before frying. Spread them out on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be kept for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy them, fry them straight from the freezer, increasing the frying time by a couple of minutes for optimal results.

If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheating is best done in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, restoring their crispiness without introducing extra oil. Microwaving is convenient but may leave them a bit soggy, so I recommend avoiding this method if you can.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I bake these falafel nuggets instead of frying?

Yes, you can bake them at 400°F (200°C) for about 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through.

→ How can I store leftover falafel nuggets?

Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to regain their crispiness.

→ Can I freeze these nuggets?

Absolutely! Shape the nuggets and freeze them before cooking. Fry them directly from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time.

→ What can I serve with falafel nuggets?

They pair well with tahini sauce, tzatziki, or your favorite salad. Don't forget the pita!