Baked Falafel Tacos with Garlic Sauce

Today on the Takrecipe website, we’re diving into a creative and healthy fusion dish: Baked Falafel Tacos with Garlic Sauce. This recipe brings together the earthy flavors of Middle Eastern falafel and the vibrant, fresh appeal of Mexican-style tacos. By baking the falafel instead of frying, we’re keeping things light and nutritious without compromising on flavor. Topped with a creamy, tangy garlic sauce and crunchy veggies, these tacos are sure to become a household favorite.

Ingredients (Serves 4 people)

• 1 ½ cups dried chickpeas (soaked overnight and drained)
• 1 small onion, roughly chopped
• 3 cloves garlic
• 1 cup fresh parsley leaves
• 1 cup fresh cilantro leaves
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp ground coriander
• ½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 8 small taco-sized tortillas
• 1 cup shredded lettuce
• 1 tomato, diced
• 1 small cucumber, sliced thin
• For the garlic sauce: ½ cup plain yogurt, 2 tbsp mayonnaise, 1 clove garlic (minced), 1 tbsp lemon juice, salt to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Falafel Mixture

In a food processor, combine the soaked and drained chickpeas, chopped onion, garlic cloves, parsley, cilantro, cumin, coriander, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Pulse until the mixture is finely ground but not a paste—you should still see tiny bits of chickpeas and herbs. Transfer the mixture to a bowl and let it rest in the fridge for 30 minutes to firm up slightly.

Step 2: Shape and Bake

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly brush it with olive oil. Using your hands, form the chilled falafel mixture into small patties or balls, about the size of a tablespoon each. Place them on the baking sheet and brush or spray the tops with a little more olive oil. Bake for 15–20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the falafel is golden and crispy on the outside.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Sauce

While the falafel bakes, prepare the garlic sauce. In a small bowl, mix together the yogurt, mayonnaise, minced garlic, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt. Stir until smooth and creamy, then set it aside in the fridge until ready to use.

Step 4: Assemble the Tacos

Warm the tortillas on a skillet or directly over a flame for a few seconds on each side. To each tortilla, add a few pieces of baked falafel, a handful of shredded lettuce, some diced tomato, and sliced cucumber. Drizzle generously with the garlic sauce and serve immediately while warm.

Tip 1: Use dried chickpeas, not canned

🟢 Canned chickpeas are too soft and will make the falafel mushy — soaking dried ones overnight gives the best texture.

Tip 2: Chill the mixture

🟢 Letting the falafel mixture rest in the fridge helps it hold together better during baking.

Tip 3: Customize the toppings

🟢 Add pickled red onions, feta cheese, or hot sauce for extra flavor and flair to your tacos.

Other food you must try:

• Fårikål recipe
• Greek cucumber salad
• Greek Astakomakaronada
• Cepelinai recipe
• Baati Chokha recipe
• Knafeh recipe
• Indian Dhokla recipe
• Chicken Souvlaki