Super Bowl Crispy Falafel Nuggets

Name: Super Bowl Crispy Falafel Nuggets
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup dried chickpeas, soaked overnight; 1 small onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped; 1 tsp ground cumin; 1 tsp ground coriander; 1/2 tsp baking powder; Salt and pepper to taste; Oil for frying; 1/2 cup tahini; 2 tbsp lemon juice; 1 clove garlic, minced; Water to thin; Salt to taste

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I’m thrilled to share my recipe for Super Bowl Crispy Falafel Nuggets! These delightful bites are perfect for game day, combining a crispy exterior with a flavorful, herb-loaded interior. Whether you’re hosting a party or just snacking at home, these nuggets bring a satisfying crunch and vibrant taste to the table. Plus, they’re a healthier alternative to traditional game day snacks, making them a fantastic go-to for any gathering. Get ready to impress your guests with this easy and delicious recipe!

Created by

Marianne Hughes

Last updated on 2026-01-14T03:40:10.384Z

When I first made these Super Bowl Crispy Falafel Nuggets, I wanted to create something that was both addictive and full of flavor. The key is to soak the chickpeas overnight; this ensures a creamy texture inside while maintaining that delightful crunch. I found that dividing the mixture into smaller balls helps them cook evenly, resulting in a perfect golden brown finish. It’s a small step that makes a big difference!

Serving these falafel nuggets with a zesty tahini dip elevates the flavor even more. I remember hosting a game night where these were the star of the show, and everyone was asking for the recipe. Trust me, once you serve these, they’ll be the hit of your Super Bowl party!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Crispy and golden exterior with a soft, flavorful inside
Packed with nutritious ingredients, perfect for a guilt-free snack
Great for sharing with friends and family during the big game

      

The Importance of Soaking Chickpeas

Soaking the dried chickpeas is a crucial step in making the perfect falafel nuggets. It not only softens the chickpeas but also helps to unleash their natural flavors. I recommend soaking them overnight in plenty of water. If you forget to soak them, a quick soak in boiling water for 1-2 hours can work in a pinch, but the texture may not be as optimal.

Properly soaked chickpeas will blend together more easily in the food processor, resulting in a smoother mixture with a better consistency for forming nuggets. This step also helps reduce the cooking time, making frying quicker and leading to a crispier exterior once cooked.

Achieving the Perfect Fry

When frying your falafel nuggets, the oil temperature is essential. Aim for medium heat, keeping an eye on the oil for shimmering bubbles - this indicates that it’s ready for frying. If the oil is too hot, the outside will brown quickly while the inside remains uncooked. A temperature range between 350°F to 375°F (175°C to 190°C) is ideal.

Fry the nuggets in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan, which can lower the oil temperature and result in soggy nuggets. Cook them for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they reach a golden brown color. This not only enhances their flavor but ensures they are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside.

Ingredients

Falafel Nuggets

1 cup dried chickpeas, soaked overnight
1 small onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp ground coriander
1/2 tsp baking powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Oil for frying

Tahini Dip

1/2 cup tahini
2 tbsp lemon juice
1 clove garlic, minced
Water to thin
Salt to taste

Instructions

Prepare the Falafel Mixture

In a food processor, combine the soaked chickpeas, chopped onion, garlic, parsley, cilantro, cumin, coriander, baking powder, salt, and pepper. Pulse until the mixture is well combined but still slightly chunky.

Form Nuggets

Using your hands, form small nuggets from the falafel mixture, about the size of a golf ball.

Heat Oil

In a large skillet, heat oil over medium heat. You’ll want enough oil to cover the bottom of the pan generously.

Fry Nuggets

Once the oil is hot, carefully add the falafel nuggets in batches, frying for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove and drain on paper towels.

Make Tahini Dip

In a bowl, whisk together tahini, lemon juice, minced garlic, water, and salt until smooth and creamy. Adjust the consistency by adding more water if necessary.

Serve and Enjoy

Serve the crispy falafel nuggets warm with the tahini dip on the side. Enjoy the game day!

Pro Tips

For extra crunch, you can also bake the falafel nuggets in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

If you want to prepare these falafel nuggets in advance, you can store the uncooked falafel mixture in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just be sure to cover it tightly to avoid drying out. When you're ready to fry, simply form nuggets as instructed and you'll have fresh falafel in no time.

For cooked nuggets, let them cool completely after frying, then place them in an airtight container. You can store them in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheating is best done in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to retain that delightful crunch instead of using the microwave, which can make them soggy.

Variations and Serving Suggestions

Feel free to experiment with the herbs used in this recipe; adding mint, dill, or even some spices like paprika can add new flavor dimensions to your falafel nuggets. For a spicier kick, consider mixing in some chopped jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes in the falafel mixture.

These falafel nuggets can be served as a fun appetizer or as a satisfying main dish. Pair them with fresh vegetable sticks or pita bread, and don’t forget the tahini dip! For extra flavor, you can drizzle some olive oil or lemon zest on top right before serving to elevate the dish further.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make the falafel mixture in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the falafel mixture a day ahead and store it in the fridge. Just form the nuggets when you're ready to cook.

→ Can I freeze the falafel nuggets?

Absolutely! You can freeze uncooked nuggets on a baking sheet and then transfer them to a freezer bag for up to three months.

→ What can I serve with the falafel?

They pair wonderfully with a fresh salad, pita bread, or wraps filled with your favorite toppings and sauces.

→ How do I know when the oil is hot enough for frying?

You can test the oil by dropping a small piece of the mixture in. If it sizzles and bubbles, the oil is ready!