Why Make This Recipe
Air Fryer Falafel is a fantastic choice for anyone who loves delicious and healthy food. It’s packed with protein and flavor, making it a perfect snack or meal. Using an air fryer reduces the oil typically needed for frying, allowing you to enjoy this classic dish in a lighter way. Plus, it’s simple to make, so you can whip it up in no time!
How to Make Air Fryer Falafel
Ingredients:
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 small onion, roughly chopped
- 3-4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 2 tablespoons flour (or chickpea flour for gluten-free)
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- Olive oil spray
Directions:
Creating Air Fryer Falafel is straightforward. Follow these simple steps to achieve the perfect batch:
Blend the Mixture: In a food processor, combine the chickpeas, onion, garlic, parsley, cilantro, flour, cumin, coriander, salt, pepper, and baking powder. Pulse until coarsely blended, ensuring it’s not pureed.
Form Mixture into Balls: Using your hands, form the mixture into small balls or patties, approximately the size of a golf ball.
Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes.
Spray with Olive Oil: Lightly spray the falafel balls with olive oil to help them crisp up during cooking.
Air Fry: Place the falafel in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for 10 minutes, flip them over, and cook for another 5-10 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
Check for Doneness: Ensure they are cooked through by checking they are firm and golden on both sides.
Serve: Remove the falafel and let them cool for a couple of minutes before serving.
By following these steps, you’ll create delightful, crispy falafel in no time!
How to Serve Air Fryer Falafel
Air Fryer Falafel can be served in various ways. You can enjoy them in pita bread with fresh vegetables and tahini sauce. They also taste great on a salad or as a snack on their own. Consider adding a sprinkle of extra herbs or a drizzle of your favorite sauce for added flavor.
How to Store Air Fryer Falafel
To store Air Fryer Falafel, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days. If you want to freeze them, make sure they are completely cooled before placing them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Tips to Make Air Fryer Falafel
- Soak Chickpeas: If you prefer, you can soak dry chickpeas overnight for a fresher taste. Just make sure to cook them first before blending.
- Spice it Up: Don’t hesitate to add more spices like cayenne or paprika for a little heat.
- Test a Small Batch: Before cooking all your falafel, you can fry a small piece to check the flavor and adjust seasonings if needed.
Variation
For a twist, try adding other herbs or spices such as mint or a dash of lemon juice for freshness. You can also experiment with adding grated vegetables like zucchini or carrots for extra nutrition.
FAQs
Can I make falafel without an air fryer?
Yes! You can also fry them in oil or bake them in the oven at a high temperature.What can I dip falafel in?
Falafel pairs well with dips like hummus, tahini sauce, or yogurt sauce.Can I use dried chickpeas instead of canned?
Absolutely! Just soak and cook the dried chickpeas before using them in the recipe.
Air Fryer Falafel
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 can 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 small 1 small onion, roughly chopped
- 3-4 cloves 3-4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 2 tablespoons 2 tablespoons flour (or chickpea flour for gluten-free)
- 1 teaspoon 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- Olive oil spray For spraying
Instructions
Preparation
- Blend the Mixture: In a food processor, combine the chickpeas, onion, garlic, parsley, cilantro, flour, cumin, coriander, salt, pepper, and baking powder. Pulse until coarsely blended, ensuring it’s not pureed.
- Form Mixture into Balls: Using your hands, form the mixture into small balls or patties, approximately the size of a golf ball.
- Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes.
- Spray with Olive Oil: Lightly spray the falafel balls with olive oil to help them crisp up during cooking.
Cooking
- Air Fry: Place the falafel in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for 10 minutes, flip them over, and cook for another 5-10 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
- Check for Doneness: Ensure they are cooked through by checking they are firm and golden on both sides.
Serving
- Remove the falafel and let them cool for a couple of minutes before serving.