Are you ready to elevate your snacking game with a healthy twist? Dive into the world of Baked Keto Pepita Falafel, where crunchy pepitas meet aromatic herbs in a delightful vegan treat that's as satisfying as it is nutritious! Perfect for meal prep or a quick dinner, these falafel are not only low in carbs but also packed with flavor, making them an irresistible addition to any table. Whether you're following a keto lifestyle or just looking for a delicious plant-based option, this recipe will have you coming back for seconds. Read on to discover how to whip up this mouthwatering dish in no time!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Vegan
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup pepitas
- 1/4 cup almond flour
- 1/4 cup chopped parsley
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Juice of 1 lemon
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it reaches the right temperature for baking the falafel.
- In a food processor, combine 1 cup of pepitas, 1/4 cup of almond flour, 1/4 cup of chopped parsley, 2 cloves of minced garlic, 1 teaspoon of cumin, and salt to taste. Pulse the mixture until it is well combined but still slightly chunky. You want a texture that holds together but has some bite.
- Transfer the mixture to a mixing bowl. Add the juice of 1 lemon and 2 tablespoons of olive oil to the bowl. Mix everything together until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Using your hands, form the mixture into small balls or patties, about 1 to
- 5 inches in diameter. This should yield approximately 12-16 falafel, depending on the size you choose.
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Place the formed falafel on the baking sheet, ensuring they are spaced apart to allow for even cooking.
- Drizzle a little olive oil over the falafel or spray them lightly with cooking spray to help them crisp up in the oven.
- Bake the falafel in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, flipping them halfway through the cooking time to ensure they are golden brown and crispy on both sides.
- Once they are done baking, remove the falafel from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes on the baking sheet.
- Serve the baked keto pepita falafel warm, garnished with extra parsley if desired. They are delicious on their own or served with a side of your favorite dipping sauce, such as tahini or a vegan yogurt sauce.
Tips
- Texture Matters: When pulsing the ingredients in the food processor, aim for a slightly chunky consistency. This gives your falafel a delightful bite and helps them hold together better during baking.
- Chill Before Baking: For an even firmer texture, consider chilling the formed falafel in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes before baking. This step helps them retain their shape while cooking.
- Spice It Up: Don't hesitate to customize the spices! Adding a pinch of paprika or cayenne pepper can give your falafel an extra kick of flavor.
- Perfectly Crispy: To achieve that golden-brown crispiness, make sure to drizzle olive oil generously over the falafel before baking. Flipping them halfway through the cooking time ensures even browning on both sides.
- Serving Suggestions: These falafel are fantastic on their own, but they shine even brighter when paired with a refreshing tahini sauce or a tangy vegan yogurt dip. Add a side of fresh vegetables or a salad for a complete meal!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 280kcal
Carbohydrates: 6g
Protein: 12g
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 0mg
