How To Reheat Falafel

Falafel: those delicious, crispy, golden brown balls made primarily from chickpeas and a medley of herbs and spices.

They’re a favorite in Middle Eastern cuisine, and they’ve made their mark on dinner plates all over the world.

Whether you’ve bought some from a store, enjoyed them at a restaurant, or made them from scratch at home, there may come a time when you have leftovers.

But how do you reheat them without losing that special texture and flavor? In this guide, we’ll explore several methods to help you enjoy your falafel to the fullest, even the second time around.

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Methods for Reheating Falafel

When reheating falafel, it’s not only important to retain its delightful texture and flavor but also to ensure it reaches a safe internal temperature.

According to the FDA guidelines, food should be reheated thoroughly to eliminate any potential bacterial growth.

Always double-check that your falafel, or any reheated food, reaches the recommended temperature to ensure both deliciousness and safety.

The Oven Method

The oven method is ideal for those seeking an even reheating process. This approach slowly warms your falafel, ensuring a crispy exterior and moist interior.

• Pros: Provides an even, crispy texture without using too much oil.
• Cons: Takes longer than some other methods.

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Lay the falafel on a baking sheet. Ensure they are spaced out and not touching.
3. Heat for 10-15 minutes. Halfway through, turn them over for even heating.
4. Once they’re heated through and crispy on the outside, take them out and let them cool for a minute or two.

The Stovetop Method

Quick and hands-on, the stovetop method allows for immediate satisfaction. It’s perfect for those wanting to achieve a crispy finish in minimal time.

• Pros: Faster than the oven and can bring out more flavor if you use a little oil.
• Cons: Might not heat as evenly as the oven.

1. Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat.
2. Add a teaspoon of oil if you wish (it can add a bit of crispiness).
3. Place falafels in the pan, ensuring they aren’t overcrowded.
4. Heat each side for 2-3 minutes or until they’re golden and warmed through.

The Air Fryer Method

The air fryer give you the ability to achieve a crispy finish with less oil. When it comes to reheating falafel, this method promises quick results with that sought-after crunch on the outside.

• Pros: Achieves a crispy texture in less time without the need for added oil.
• Cons: Limited by the size and capacity of the air fryer—larger batches may require multiple rounds of reheating.

1. Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
2. Place the falafel in the air fryer basket, ensuring they aren’t touching or overlapping.
3. Reheat for 6-8 minutes, checking halfway to ensure they’re heating evenly.
4. Once crisp and warm, remove and let them cool for a minute.

The Toaster Oven Method

The toaster oven is a great choice for those who want a quick reheating method without turning on their full-sized oven. It offers a crispy outcome without sacrificing too much on the moist interior.

• Pros: Efficient for smaller batches; maintains a good texture.
• Cons: Might not be suitable for larger quantities due to space constraints.

1. Preheat your toaster oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Place falafel on the toaster oven tray, ensuring they’re spaced out and not touching.
3. Heat for 8-12 minutes. Halfway through, turn them over for even heating.
4. Once they’re crispy and warmed throughout, remove and allow them to cool for a minute.

The Microwave Method

The microwave is a quick solution for those on the go. While not the best for maintaining the falafel’s original texture, it’s certainly the fastest.

• Pros: Super quick and convenient.
• Cons: Doesn’t retain the crispy exterior as effectively. Risk of uneven reheating if not monitored.

1. Place falafel on a microwave-safe plate.
2. Drape a damp paper towel over them to prevent them from drying out.
3. Microwave on medium power for 30-second intervals, checking after each. Typically, 1-2 minutes total should suffice.
4. Let them cool for a minute post-heating. Remember, items continue cooking a bit even after microwaving!

Method	Temperature	Duration	Pros & Cons
Oven	375°F (190°C)	10-15 min	Even, crispy texture; takes longer
Stovetop	Medium Heat	5-6 min	Quick; control over crispiness, uses a bit more oil
Air Fryer	325°F (165°C)	5-6 min	Even reheating; retains crispiness without added oil
Toaster Oven	375°F (190°C)	8-12 min	Efficient for smaller batches; maintains good texture
Microwave	Medium Power	1-2 min	Quick; doesn’t retain crispiness, risk of uneven reheating

Remember, that no matter which method you choose, it’s essential to keep a few things in mind. Here’s a quick list to ensure your reheated falafel is as tasty as the first time:

• Don’t Overheat: Overheating can make the falafel dry and hard. Aim to heat them just until they are warm in the center.
• Avoid the Microwave: While tempting because of its speed, the microwave can make the falafel go soft on the outside and too hot on the inside.
• Store Properly: Before reheating, ensure that the falafel was stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This preserves their flavor and texture.

If you are reheating falafel you might also be interested in learning how to reheat naan bread, I have just the post fo you.

How To Reheat Falafel Without Drying It Out?

Reheating falafel without losing its signature moisture and crunch can be a simple task with the right approach.

Start by opting for the oven, setting it at 325°F, and wrapping the falafel in foil to retain moisture.

If using a skillet, add a touch of water, allowing the steam to rehydrate the falafel while it warms.

For those with an air fryer, a quick spritz of water or oil before a brief reheating can help maintain its texture. Importantly, avoid overheating, as this is the main culprit of dry falafel.

With attention to detail, you can ensure your falafel remains just as delicious as when first made.

While mastering the art of reheating falafel is essential for Middle Eastern cuisine enthusiasts, if you’re also a seafood lover and often find yourself with leftover crab cakes, the reheating technique can be quite similar.

Check out our guide on how to reheat crab cakes to ensure they remain juicy and delicious.

How To Store Leftover Falafel

Falafel is a cherished Middle Eastern delight recognized for its crunchy exterior and flavorful center.

Storing it right is crucial when you have extras after a hearty meal. Always let your falafel cool to room temperature before considering storage to prevent sogginess.

For short-term needs, an airtight container does the trick. However, for extended storage, freeze individual falafel balls on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer bag for up to six months.

Beware of moisture-rich foods, as they can turn your crispy falafel soft. And when it’s time to relish them again, pick your reheating method based on their last location—fridge or freezer.

Conclusion

Reheating falafel doesn’t have to be a daunting task. With a little knowledge and a few handy techniques, you can enjoy these treats as if they were made fresh.

Just remember to avoid the microwave and focus on methods that retain the falafel’s natural crispiness and flavor.

Whether you prefer the oven’s even heating or the quick touch of the stovetop, there’s a method that’s just right for you.