Spicy Baked Falafel with Creamy Tzatziki Sauce

Follow our step-by-step guide on how to make Spicy Baked Falafel with Creamy Tzatziki Sauce.

1. Step 1

   Begin by crafting a refreshing tzatziki sauce.

2. Step 2

   In a mixing bowl, blend together creamy Greek yogurt, finely chopped cucumber, zesty lemon juice, garlic powder, and a touch of sugar if desired.

3. Step 3

   Add in fragrant lemon zest, fresh mint, and dill, stirring until all ingredients harmonize beautifully.

4. Step 4

   Taste and adjust the seasonings to your liking, then cover the bowl and let the tzatziki chill in the refrigerator, allowing the flavors to meld until you're ready to serve it alongside your falafel.

5. Step 5

   Next, preheat your oven to a sizzling 450°F (230°C) to prepare for baking.

6. Step 6

   While the oven warms up, grab your food processor and toss in jalapeno peppers, fresh parsley, green onions, and garlic.

7. Step 7

   Pulse the mixture until finely chopped and well combined, scraping down the sides as needed.

8. Step 8

   Now, introduce the chickpeas, pulsing a few times until the mixture is roughly blended, ensuring some chickpeas remain intact for texture.

9. Step 9

   Transfer this vibrant mixture to a large bowl.

10. Step 10

    To it, add eggs, lemon juice, lemon zest, Greek seasoning, cumin, half a tablespoon of salt, paprika, pepper, and chili powder.

11. Step 11

    Use a spatula to mix everything together until fully incorporated.

12. Step 12

    Gradually sprinkle in chickpea flour, stirring until the mixture is moist yet holds together when shaped into balls.

13. Step 13

    For the best results, place the bowl in the freezer for 10 to 15 minutes to firm up the mixture.

14. Step 14

    While the mixture chills, line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper and brush it generously with olive oil.

15. Step 15

    Once the chickpea mixture is ready, remove it from the freezer and shape it into 20 to 24 small balls.

16. Step 16

    Arrange these delightful orbs on the prepared baking sheet, brushing the tops with the remaining olive oil and sprinkling with a bit more salt for extra flavor.

17. Step 17

    Slide the baking sheet into your preheated oven and bake for approximately 45 minutes, or until the falafel are dry and take on a lovely golden hue.

18. Step 18

    For an extra crispy finish, turn on the broiler and let them bake for an additional 5 to 7 minutes, keeping a close eye to ensure they don’t burn.

19. Step 19

    Once perfectly crisp, serve your falafel hot, accompanied by the chilled tzatziki sauce for a delightful culinary experience.

20. Step 20

    Enjoy the burst of flavors and textures in every bite!.