Super Bowl Food Crispy Falafel Nuggets

Name: Super Bowl Food Crispy Falafel Nuggets
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup dried chickpeas, soaked overnight; 1 small onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon coriander; 1/2 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 cup all-purpose flour or chickpea flour; Oil for frying

Highlighted under: Warm Ideas

When we decided to create these Super Bowl Food Crispy Falafel Nuggets, I wanted to make sure they were both tasty and easy to prepare. We love entertaining on game day, and this recipe allows me to whip up a delicious snack that everyone can enjoy. These nuggets are packed with flavor and crunch, making them perfect for dipping in your favorite sauces. Plus, they fit right into our quest for healthier game-time snacks, allowing us to indulge without feeling guilty.

Created by

Verity Langdon

Last updated on 2026-01-11T21:09:35.259Z

As I experimented with different ways to prepare falafel, I found that blending various spices brought out a layer of flavor that truly elevated the dish. The key is in the soaking process of the chickpeas, which allows them to absorb moisture and become tender before being blended. This method makes the nuggets crispy on the outside while remaining fluffy on the inside.

During one of our game nights, I served these crispy falafel nuggets alongside homemade tahini sauce and a zesty avocado dip. The combination was a hit! It’s amazing how easily these nuggets come together and how they impress everyone at the party.

Why You'll Love These Nuggets
Crispy on the outside with a tender inside
Infused with aromatic spices for an unforgettable flavor
Great as a snack or appetizer for parties

Understanding Your Ingredients

Choosing the right chickpeas is crucial for these falafel nuggets. For the best texture, opt for dried chickpeas over canned ones. Soaking them overnight not only softens the chickpeas but also helps them blend better in the food processor. This results in a firmer nugget that holds together beautifully during frying. If you're in a pinch, a quick soak can be done by boiling the chickpeas for an hour, then allowing them to sit for another hour off the heat.

Fresh herbs like parsley and cilantro give these nuggets their distinctive flavor profile. Instead of chopping them by hand, a food processor can quickly mince them into smaller pieces, ensuring even distribution throughout the mixture. If you’re not a fan of these herbs, you can substitute with other soft herbs like dill or basil, but keep in mind that the flavor will change slightly. Always taste your mixture and adjust seasonings accordingly.

Perfecting the Frying Technique

Frying the nuggets is where the magic happens, transforming your falafel mixture into crunchy bites of goodness. Ensure your oil is hot enough before frying; around 350°F (175°C) is ideal. You can test the oil by dropping in a small piece of the mixture; if it sizzles and rises, you’re ready to go. Frying in small batches helps maintain oil temperature and prevents overcrowding, which can lead to soggy nuggets.

After frying, let the nuggets drain on paper towels for a couple of minutes to remove excess oil. This step is essential for achieving that crispy texture everyone loves. For a health-conscious spin, you can also air-fry these nuggets at 375°F for about 15 minutes, flipping halfway through. They'll still turn out delicious with less oil!

Serving Suggestions and Variations

While tahini sauce is a classic companion for these nuggets, consider serving them with a variety of dips like spicy yogurt or tzatziki to elevate your game day spread. You can also serve them in mini pita pockets with fresh veggies for a more substantial snack. Adding pickled cucumbers or jalapeños can provide a nice contrast, making every bite exciting.

If you want to experiment, try adding flavor variations to your nuggets. Incorporate spices such as harissa for a kick or finely grated lemon zest for brightness. You could also blend in some grated zucchini or carrots to sneak in extra veggies, adding moisture and nutrition. Just ensure to adjust your flour content to maintain the right texture!

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make your falafel nuggets:

Falafel Nuggets Ingredients

1 cup dried chickpeas, soaked overnight
1 small onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon coriander
1/2 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper, to taste
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 cup all-purpose flour or chickpea flour
Oil for frying

Ensure all ingredients are prepped and ready before starting the cooking process.

Instructions

Here’s how to prepare crispy falafel nuggets:

Prepare the Falafel Mixture

In a food processor, combine the soaked chickpeas, chopped onion, garlic, parsley, cilantro, cumin, coriander, paprika, salt, pepper, baking powder, and flour. Pulse until the mixture is coarse but holds together when formed into a ball. Transfer it to a bowl and refrigerate for 30 minutes.

Shape the Nuggets

Once the mixture has chilled, preheat your oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Scoop tablespoonfuls of the mixture and form them into nugget shapes with your hands.

Fry the Nuggets

Carefully place the nuggets in the hot oil, frying them for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until they are golden brown. Remove from oil and drain on paper towels.

Serve and Enjoy

Serve hot with tahini sauce or any dip of your choice. Enjoy your crispy falafel nuggets at your Super Bowl party!

Ensure to monitor the frying process closely to avoid overcooking.

Pro Tips

For an even healthier option, you can bake the nuggets at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes instead of frying, flipping them halfway through.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These falafel nuggets can be made in advance, making them an excellent choice for busy game-day preparation. Once shaped, the nuggets can be frozen on a baking sheet until solid, then transferred to a freezer bag. When you're ready to fry, there’s no need to thaw; just drop them in hot oil for a couple of extra minutes until crispy.

If you have leftovers, store the cooked nuggets in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat them in an air fryer or oven at 375°F for about 10 minutes to restore their crunch. Avoid microwaving them, as this can lead to a soggy texture.

Troubleshooting Tips

If your nuggets are falling apart while frying, it could mean your mixture is too wet. In this case, add a bit more flour or chill the mixture longer to help it firm up. Ensure your oil is hot enough as well; low oil temperatures can cause the nuggets to disintegrate in the pan.

Conversely, if your nuggets are browning too quickly, reduce the heat slightly to around medium-low to cook them through without burning. It’s all about finding that perfect balance; once you get the hang of it, these nuggets will be a breeze to make!

Ingredient Substitutions

For those needing a gluten-free option, simply substitute regular flour with chickpea flour or a gluten-free blend. Chickpea flour will add a bit of nuttiness to your nuggets without compromising flavor. This makes them perfect for a wider audience, especially for guests with dietary restrictions.

If fresh herbs are not available, you can use 1-2 teaspoons of dried herbs. Just be cautious with the quantity, as dried herbs are more potent than fresh ones. Similarly, if you don’t have cumin or coriander, experimenting with taco seasoning can give a unique twist to the flavor profile.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these nuggets ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the mixture and form the nuggets a day in advance. Just store them covered in the refrigerator until you're ready to fry or bake.

→ What dipping sauces go well with falafel?

Tahini sauce, tzatziki, or a spicy sriracha mayo are all excellent choices to complement the flavors of falafel.

→ Can I freeze the falafel nuggets?

Yes, you can freeze the uncooked nuggets. Just make sure to separate them on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer bag. They can be fried directly from frozen.

→ Are falafel nuggets suitable for vegans?

Yes, these falafel nuggets are completely plant-based and perfect for anyone following a vegan diet.