These tofu falafel patties are a version of falafel that uses tofu instead of chickpeas, for extra protein. Each patty is packed with flavor and has 8g protein.
This recipe is a mixture between classic falafel and my falafel burgers, with a protein twist. Classic falafel is made from chickpeas, herbs, and spices. My falafel burgers are the burger version of that, using chickpeas, and vital wheat gluten instead of flour, for extra protein.
These tofu falafel patties have all the flavors and seasonings of falafel, but also have all the protein of my falafel burgers AND use tofu instead of chickpeas for even more protein.
The result is little bites of falafel packed with protein and flavor! Ready in only 25 mintues!
Oh, and because tofu + falafel = tofufel, I typically refer to these patties as tofufels.
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Why I love these Tofu Falafels
- Dietary needs - these falafels are vegan/plant-based, dairy-free, oil-free, and sugar-free
- Perfect main dish or appetizer- falafel makes a great main dish, serve alongside some grilled veggies or on a salad; you can also eat a few patties as a fun appetizer
- LOADED with protein - by using tofu instead of chickpeas, we get extra protein, AND what really adds protein to these patties is vital wheat gluten, which has a very high percentage of protein! So these falafel have much more protein than a classic falafel
- Fresh flavor - who knew baked falafel could taste so fresh?! Using fresh herbs in the patties really steps up the bright flavors
- Twist on a classic - the higher protein version of falafel, yet still just as flavorful
- Easy Vegan Falafel - while there are quite a few ingredients, this falafel is actually really easy to make. All the ingredients go in your food processor. You'll have falafel in no time!
- Air Fryer Friendly - I love putting these patties in the air fryer. They get that perfect crispy on the outside, moist on the inside combo
Ingredient Notes & Substitutions
- Red Onion: you can also use a yellow onion
- Garlic
- Herbs: Parsley, cilantro, dill. These are the classic herbs found in falafel. Using fresh parsley and cilantro is essential for a fresh flavor. Dried dill is fine.
- Tomato Paste
- Spices: Kosher Salt, pepper, cumin, coriander, cayenne. Besides the chickpeas, these spices are what makes the falafel super flavorful. A pinch of cayenne adds that extra edge to the flavor profile.
- Baking Powder: baking powder helps create a light and definitely NOT dense falafel
- Super Firm Tofu: use super firm (pre-pressed) tofu to avoid having to press the tofu, add the maximum amount of protein, and create a moist but not falling apart patty
- Vital Wheat Gluten: some falafel recipes use flour to help bind the patties, so for extra protein I opted for vital wheat gluten, which is almost entirely protein. This makes these falafel a nutritional powerhouse. If you are gluten-free, you can use a gf flour of your choice, like oat flour.
- Sesame Seeds: these are optional but I love having the extra texture and hint of sesame flavor
How to make Tofu Falafel
Step 1. Preheat the oven or air fryer to 350°F.
Step 2. Pulse the onion, garlic, herbs, tomato paste, and spices in the food processor, until the onion is broken down into small pieces.
Step 3. Crumble in the tofu. Then add the vital wheat gluten and sesame seeds. Pulse to combine - be careful not to over mix.
Step 4. Form the mixture into 2" patties.
Step 5. Bake for 15 minutes or air fry for 10-13 minutes. Enjoy!
FAQ & Expert Tips
Mash the tofu in a large bowl. Mince the garlic, onion, and herbs. Add to the bowl along with the tomato paste spices, and baking powder. Finally, add the vital wheat gluten and sesame seeds. Stir until the mixture comes together. Then follow the cooking instructions as written.
Store these falafel in an air-tight container in the fridge. They will last up to a week.
To reheat, warm in the oven or air fryer at 350°F and heat for 5-6 minutes until warmed through. Or re-heat in the pan over medium heat for 2 minutes per side until warm.
Let the patties cool completely, then wrap individually in cling wrap and place all the patties in a freezer safe bag. They will last in the freezer for up to 6 months. To reheat, cook in the oven or air fryer at 350°F until warm, about 7-10 minutes.
Recipe Prayer
Thank you God for these falafel that give our bodies the nutrients they need. Thank you for this delicious meal with our favorite flavors. Amen.
More Mediterranean recipes
📖 Recipe
Tofu Falafel (Tofufel)
Equipment
- Air Fryer optional
Ingredients
- ½ Small Red Onion quartered
- 4 Cloves Garlic
- 1 Cup Fresh Parsley
- 1 Cup Fresh Cilantro
- 2 Tablespoons Tomato Paste
- 2 Tablespoons Dried Dill
- 1 Tablespoon Kosher Salt
- 1 Tablespoon Cumin
- 1 Tablespoon Coriander
- 2 Teaspoons Black Pepper
- 1 Teaspoon Baking Powder
- ½ Teaspoon Cayenne
- 1 16 Ounce Block Super Firm Tofu
- ¾ Cup Vital Wheat Gluten or flour of choice
- 1 Tablespoon Sesame Seeds
Instructions
- Preheat the oven or air fryer to 350°F.
- Pulse the onion, garlic, herbs, tomato paste, and spices in the food processor, until the onion is broken down into small pieces.
- Crumble in the tofu. Then add the vital wheat gluten and sesame seeds. Pulse to combine - be careful not to over mix.
- Form the mixture into 2" patties.
- Bake for 15 minutes or air fry for 10-13 minutes. Enjoy!
Notes
Nutrition
Nutrition information is an estimate.
Gerry Rauch
Elizabeth, it is unclear when to add the tomato paste
Elizabeth
Thanks for catching this, Gerry. I've updated the post - add the tomato paste in the first round of processing, with the herbs 🙂
Jennifer
I made these tonight, for dinner and it was phenomenal. This will be a staple in my meal plan. It’s a great high protein option. I’m looking forward to trying more of your recipes.
Elizabeth
So great to hear, Jennifer! That's why I love these too - so much protein! Thanks for taking the time to comment 🙂