This colorful and wholesome falafel waffle bowl takes a modern approach to a classic Middle Eastern dish. By pressing falafel batter into a waffle iron instead of deep-frying, it achieves a crisp texture with less oil. Paired with smooth hummus, fresh vegetables, and vibrant garnishes like pomegranate seeds and microgreens, this dish is both visually appealing and nutritionally balanced — perfect for lunch, dinner, or a nourishing meal prep option.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe offers a creative spin on falafel with a fun, waffle-style preparation that’s crispy on the outside and soft inside — without the mess of frying. It’s protein-rich, plant-based, and packed with fresh produce and fiber. Each component is customizable, making it suitable for a wide range of dietary preferences. Whether you’re seeking a vegetarian power bowl or a colorful addition to your weekly meal rotation, this falafel waffle bowl delivers on flavor, texture, and presentation.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Falafel Waffles:

• 1 ½ cups canned chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 1 small onion, roughly chopped
• 2 garlic cloves
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 3 tablespoons flour (or chickpea flour)
• Olive oil spray (for the waffle iron)

For the Bowl:

• 1/2 cup hummus
• 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup cucumber, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup canned chickpeas
• 1 tablespoon pomegranate seeds
• Handful of baby greens or spinach
• Microgreens or pea shoots for garnish
• Olive oil, salt, and pepper to taste

Directions

1. In a food processor, combine chickpeas, onion, garlic, parsley, cilantro, cumin, coriander, cayenne, and salt. Pulse until the mixture forms a coarse, sand-like texture.
2. Add baking powder and flour to the mixture, then pulse again until it begins to come together. The texture should be moist and hold its shape when pressed.
3. Preheat your waffle iron and lightly coat it with olive oil spray.
4. Scoop a portion of the falafel mixture into the center of the waffle iron. Close and cook for 4–5 minutes, or until the exterior is crisp and golden brown. Remove and repeat with the remaining mixture.
5. In a serving bowl, spread a generous spoonful of hummus on one side.
6. Arrange the sliced cucumber, halved cherry tomatoes, chickpeas, and baby greens neatly beside the hummus.
7. Break the falafel waffles into large pieces and place them on top of the greens.
8. Sprinkle with pomegranate seeds, then drizzle lightly with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
9. Garnish with microgreens or pea shoots and serve immediately. Enjoy warm or cold.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields 2 servings as a main dish. Total preparation and cooking time is approximately 35 minutes, making it a great option for a quick lunch or light dinner.

Variations

• Spicy Variation: Add harissa or chili paste to the hummus or falafel mixture for extra heat.
• Grain Addition: Add a scoop of quinoa, bulgur, or couscous to the bowl for extra fiber and fullness.
• Tahini Drizzle: Replace or supplement the olive oil with a lemon-tahini dressing.
• Roasted Veggies: Include roasted sweet potatoes or cauliflower for added depth and warmth.
• Pickled Elements: Add pickled red onions or turnips for a tangy bite.
• No Waffle Iron: Shape the falafel mixture into patties and pan-fry or bake instead.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use certified gluten-free chickpea flour or oat flour.
• Vegan Protein Boost: Add baked tofu or a sprinkle of hemp seeds for additional protein.
• Different Greens: Use arugula, kale, or mixed lettuces based on preference.
• Mediterranean Twist: Include olives and crumbled feta cheese if dairy is acceptable.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store components separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat falafel waffles in a toaster or oven at 375°F (190°C) for 5–7 minutes until crisp. The bowl ingredients can be served cold or at room temperature.
• Make-Ahead: The falafel mixture can be made ahead and kept in the fridge for up to 24 hours before cooking.

FAQs

Can I make the falafel waffles without a waffle iron?

Yes. You can shape the mixture into small patties and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20 minutes, flipping halfway, or pan-fry until golden.

Are the falafel waffles freezer-friendly?

Yes. Once cooked and cooled, falafel waffles can be frozen. Reheat in a toaster oven or oven until crisp.

Can I use dried chickpeas?

Traditional falafel uses soaked (not cooked) dried chickpeas. For this quick version, canned chickpeas work well, but dried and soaked chickpeas will give a firmer texture.

What if I don’t have fresh herbs?

You can use 1 tablespoon each of dried parsley and cilantro, though fresh herbs provide better flavor and texture.

Can I make the bowl vegan?

Yes, this recipe is naturally vegan if served with plant-based hummus and no dairy-based garnishes.

What other sauces go well with this bowl?

Tahini sauce, lemon garlic dressing, or a cucumber-yogurt sauce (plant-based if needed) pair beautifully.

Can I make this nut-free?

Yes, the recipe contains no nuts by default, and none of the components require nuts unless added optionally.

What’s the best way to serve the bowl?

Serve immediately after assembling to enjoy the falafel crisp and the vegetables fresh.

Can I use store-bought falafel mix?

Yes, prepare it according to package directions and use in the waffle iron as directed in this recipe.

Is this dish gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, use certified gluten-free flour for the falafel mixture and ensure the hummus and other ingredients are free from gluten-containing additives.

Conclusion

The Falafel Waffle Bowl is a fresh, flavorful, and inventive way to enjoy falafel in a fun, nutritious format. With its crispy texture, colorful vegetables, and creamy hummus base, it’s both visually impressive and satisfying. Perfect for lunch, meal prep, or a light dinner, this dish proves that healthy eating can also be creative and delicious.

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