Can You Freeze Falafel Homemade Mix? (How To Guide)

A great way to prepare this popular Middle Eastern street food in a fast fashion is to make the falafel mixture ahead and freeze it for later use.  This “can you freeze falafel” guide, shows you step by step how to freeze falafel mixture two ways, helping you save time.

Why Freeze Falafel Mix?

Freezing falafel mix can be a convenient way to store it for longer periods and maintain its freshness (I think it's the best way). Here are a few reasons why freezing falafel mix can be beneficial:

1. Prolongs shelf life: By freezing falafel mix, you can extend its shelf life beyond what is possible in the refrigerator. Freezing slows down the growth of bacteria, yeast, and molds that can cause spoilage, allowing you to keep the mix for several months.
2. Convenience: If you make a large batch of falafel mix but don't plan to use it all at once, freezing allows you to portion it out and use it whenever you need it. This can be especially useful if you have limited time for cooking or if you want to have a quick and easy meal option readily available.
3. Time-saving: By preparing the mix in advance and freezing it, you can save time when you want to cook it later. Instead of starting from scratch, you can head over to your freezer and either cook from frozen or thaw out - read on for these instructions.
4. Can help with stopping your falafel falling apart.

How To Freeze Falafel Mix

These instructions will discuss freezing uncooked falafel balls or falafel mix. Select the method that best works for you, one method is not better than the other, it comes down to personal preference.

I personally have been doing both methods for years as taught to me by my mother.

Prepare the mix. Create the falafel mix as per normal.

Decide whether you would like to freeze mix or falafel balls.

Freeze Falafel Balls

Shape the falafel balls and place the individual portions in a single layer on a baking tray lined with parchment paper, making sure they are not touching each other.

This allows them to freeze individually and prevents them from sticking together.

Flash freeze. Put the baking sheet in the freezer and leave it until the portions are completely frozen. This process usually takes a few hours. I like to keep mine overnight.

Transfer to a freezer. Once the portions are frozen solid, transfer them to a labeled freezer bag which includes the date. Remove any excess air from the bag before sealing it to prevent freezer burn.

Storage and cooking. Keep frozen for up to six (6) months. Frozen falafel balls can be cooked from frozen (either frying, air fried or oven-baked will work).

Having frozen falafel balls is a fabulous option for speeding up the process of making a healthy falafel salad on a weeknight.

Freeze Falafel Mix

Place the mix into a freezer-friendly snap-lock bag and smooth out the mixture in the bag to form a flat rectangle.

Press out as much air as possible and then seal the bag shut. Place the sealed bag flat in the freezer. Keep frozen for up to six (6) months.

Defrosting and cooking. To defrost, simply place the bag on a plate in the fridge overnight. It will be thawed by the next day, then shape into balls and cook as you normally would (fry, oven-baked or air fried).

Proper Storage Techniques

To ensure the best quality and prevent freezer burn, it is essential to follow proper storage techniques when freezing falafel:

• Use airtight containers or freezer bags to minimize exposure to air and moisture.
• Divide the mixture into individual portions or layers to make it easier to thaw/cook only what you need.
• Remove as much air as possible from the containers or bags before sealing to prevent freezer burn.
• Place the falafel in the coldest part of the freezer to maintain its freshness.

FAQs 

In conclusion, freezing falafel mix is a convenient way to preserve this delectable Middle Eastern dish for later cooking.

By following the proper freezing and storage techniques, you can maintain the taste and texture.

More Falalel Info

Do you love saving time when cooking, make the falafel spices and herbs blend ahead of time.

Here's a less-oil version - air fryer falafel recipe.

This curated list covers what to eat with falafel in general, or here are some dinner ideas, or perhaps try them in a bowl.

For those who eat on the run, try a satisfying pita sandwich filled with falafel, it's the best! Or this delicious vegan falafel burger.

Are you curious to know if falafel is vegan? Or do they contain gluten?