It was a lazy Sunday morning, and I was craving something different for breakfast. As I scrolled through my recipe collection, I stumbled upon an intriguing idea – Falafel Waffles. At first, I’ll admit I was a bit skeptical. How could these two beloved favorites, falafel and waffles, possibly come together in a harmonious way? But curiosity got the better of me, and I decided to give it a try. Let me tell you, that decision changed my breakfast game forever.

As I mixed the batter and poured it into the hot waffle iron, the aroma of cumin, garlic, and fresh herbs filled my kitchen. The sizzle and steam were almost too much to bear – I couldn’t wait to dig in. When I finally removed those perfectly golden-brown Falafel Waffles from the iron, I knew I had stumbled upon something truly special. The crisp exterior gave way to a soft, fluffy interior, packed with the bold flavors of falafel. It was love at first bite.

Why This Falafel Waffles Recipe Will Become Your Go-To

The Secret Behind Perfect Falafel Waffles

This Falafel Waffles recipe is a game-changer for a few key reasons. First and foremost, the combination of classic falafel spices and the waffle format creates a truly unique and delightful texture. The chickpea-based batter crisps up beautifully in the waffle iron, giving you that satisfying crunch you expect from falafel, with the added bonus of a light and airy interior.

What’s the secret, you ask? It’s all about striking the right balance between the key ingredients. The chickpeas provide the nutty, earthy base, while the flour, baking powder, and egg work together to achieve that perfect waffle-like structure. The fresh herbs, garlic, and spices then infuse every bite with bold, Middle Eastern-inspired flavors. It’s a harmonious fusion that will leave your taste buds dancing.

Essential Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s take a closer look at the star players in this Falafel Waffles recipe:

  • 1 (15-ounce) can chickpeas, drained and rinsed: The chickpeas are the foundation, providing protein, fiber, and that quintessential falafel flavor.
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour: The flour helps bind the batter and gives the waffles their signature structure.
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley and 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro: These vibrant herbs lend a fresh, herbal note that complements the other spices.
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic is a must-have in any falafel recipe, adding depth and complexity.
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin: Cumin is the backbone of falafel, providing an earthy, slightly smoky flavor.
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder: The baking powder helps the waffles rise and achieve that lovely, airy texture.
  • 1 cup milk and 1 egg: These wet ingredients bind the batter together and contribute to the waffle-like consistency.
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil: The oil adds richness and helps the waffles crisp up beautifully.

Step-by-Step Falafel Waffles Instructions

Preparing Your Falafel Waffles

With a prep time of just 15 minutes and a cook time of 30 minutes, these Falafel Waffles come together in a flash. All you’ll need is a waffle iron, a mixing bowl, and a few simple kitchen tools.

1- Start by draining and rinsing the chickpeas, then transfer them to a large mixing bowl. Use a potato masher or the back of a fork to mash the chickpeas into a coarse paste, leaving some slightly chunky texture.

2- In the same bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, chopped parsley, chopped cilantro, minced garlic, ground cumin, baking powder, salt, and black pepper until well combined.

3- Gradually pour in the milk and olive oil, whisking continuously to incorporate. Finally, add the egg and whisk until the batter is smooth and well-blended.

4- Preheat your waffle iron and lightly grease the plates. Scoop about 1/2 cup of the falafel batter onto the hot waffle iron, spreading it evenly. Cook for 4-5 minutes, or until the waffles are golden brown and crispy on the outside.

5- Using a fork or tongs, carefully remove the cooked falafel waffles from the iron and transfer them to a plate or baking sheet. Repeat with the remaining batter, making sure not to overcrowd the waffle iron.

6- Serve your hot, fresh Falafel Waffles immediately, topped with your favorite condiments like tahini sauce, hummus, or a drizzle of honey. Enjoy!

Pro Tips for Success

  • For extra crispy waffles, make sure to preheat your waffle iron thoroughly before cooking.
  • Don’t overmix the batter – just mix until the ingredients are well combined to avoid tough, dense waffles.
  • Adjust the baking powder amount to your desired level of fluffiness. More baking powder will result in a lighter, airier texture.
  • Feel free to experiment with different fresh herb combinations, like mint or dill, to suit your personal taste preferences.
  • If the waffles stick to the iron, try spraying it with a little nonstick cooking spray before adding the batter.
  • For a fun presentation, top your Falafel Waffles with a fried egg, crumbled feta, and a drizzle of hot sauce.

Serving and Storing Your Falafel Waffles

Perfect Pairings for Falafel Waffles

This Falafel Waffles recipe serves 6 generously, making it a great option for brunch, a casual weeknight dinner, or even a fun party appetizer. For the ultimate meal, serve the waffles alongside a fresh Mediterranean-style salad, a dollop of creamy hummus, and a tall glass of freshly squeezed lemonade or iced tea.

If you’re feeling extra indulgent, try pairing the waffles with a creamy avocado spread, a sprinkle of crumbled feta, and a drizzle of tangy pomegranate molasses. The possibilities are endless when it comes to dressing up these versatile Falafel Waffles.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

Falafel Waffles are best enjoyed fresh off the waffle iron, but you can easily make them ahead of time and reheat them when ready to serve. To store, let the cooked waffles cool completely, then place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply pop the waffles in the toaster or oven at 350°F (175°C) for 3-5 minutes, or until heated through and crispy. For longer-term storage, you can also freeze the cooked waffles for up to 2 months. Just be sure to let them thaw completely before reheating.

Variations and Dietary Adaptations for Falafel Waffles

Creative Falafel Waffles Variations

While this classic Falafel Waffles recipe is hard to beat, there are plenty of ways to put your own spin on it. For a seasonal twist, try folding in some grated zucchini or shredded carrots for extra moisture and texture. You can also experiment with different spice blends, like harissa or za’atar, to give the waffles a unique flavor profile.

Another fun variation is to turn this recipe into Falafel Waffle Sliders. Simply cook the batter in a mini waffle iron, then use the waffles as the “buns” for small falafel-inspired sandwiches, complete with all your favorite toppings.

Making Falafel Waffles Diet-Friendly

For a gluten-free version of this recipe, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just be sure to adjust the consistency of the batter as needed, as gluten-free flours can sometimes require more liquid.

If you’re looking to make these Falafel Waffles vegan, you can swap the egg for a flax or chia seed “egg” (1 tablespoon ground flax or chia seeds mixed with 3 tablespoons water). And for a lower-carb option, try using almond flour or coconut flour in place of the all-purpose flour.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use dried chickpeas instead of canned?
A: Absolutely! If you prefer to use dried chickpeas, you’ll need to soak them overnight, then drain and rinse them before mashing. Just keep in mind that the texture may be slightly different from canned chickpeas.

Q: How long do I need to cook the Falafel Waffles?
A: Each waffle should take 4-5 minutes to cook, depending on the heat of your waffle iron. The waffles are ready when they’re golden brown and crispy on the outside.

Q: Can I make the batter ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make the Falafel Waffles batter up to 1 day in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator. Just give it a quick whisk before cooking to incorporate any settled ingredients.

Q: How many servings does this recipe make?
A: This Falafel Waffles recipe yields 6 servings. Depending on your appetite and any side dishes you serve, the waffles can be enjoyed as a full meal or as a tasty appetizer.

Q: My waffles are sticking to the iron. What can I do?
A: If the waffles are sticking, try spraying the waffle iron with a light coating of nonstick cooking spray before adding the batter. You can also try lightly oiling the plates with a high-heat oil like avocado or grapeseed oil.

Conclusion

Falafel Waffles are the ultimate breakfast, brunch, or anytime indulgence. With their crispy, golden-brown exteriors and soft, fluffy interiors packed with bold Middle Eastern flavors, these unique waffles are sure to become a new favorite in your household.

What are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, fire up that waffle iron, and get ready to experience the magic of Falafel Waffles. I promise, once you try this recipe, it will become a go-to in your repertoire. Don’t forget to let me know how they turn out in the comments below – I can’t wait to hear your thoughts!