Air fryer falafel brings a delightful twist to a classic dish. These crispy, flavorful bites provide a satisfying crunch while being a healthier option compared to traditional frying methods. Made with wholesome ingredients, falafel can easily become a staple in your kitchen, perfect for snacks, appetizers, or even a main course.
Why We Love This Air Fryer Falafel
We love air fryer falafel for its ease and versatility. Unlike the traditional pan-fried version, using an air fryer allows you to achieve that perfect crispy texture with significantly less oil. This healthier approach doesn’t compromise flavor, giving you golden-brown falafel that is just as delicious. Plus, making falafel at home allows you to customize ingredients based on your preference or dietary needs. You can pack in extra herbs, spices, or even incorporate different beans. Whether you’re following a vegetarian or vegan lifestyle or just looking for a tasty snack, air fryer falafel fits the bill flawlessly.
Ingredients for Air Fryer Falafel
- 1 cup dried chickpeas, soaked overnight
- 1 small onion, roughly chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small bunch fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 small bunch fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Optional: chili powder or cayenne pepper for heat
Directions
- Drain the soaked chickpeas and rinse them thoroughly. Make sure they are well-drained.
- In a food processor, add the chickpeas, onion, garlic, parsley, cilantro, cumin, coriander, baking powder, salt, and pepper. Pulse until the mixture is coarsely ground but not pureed. You want it to be crumbly with some texture.
- If the mixture feels too dry, you can add a small amount of water or olive oil to help it bind better.
- Scoop out the mixture and form small balls or patties, about the size of a golf ball.
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Lightly brush or spray the air fryer basket with olive oil. Arrange the falafel in the basket in a single layer, ensuring they are not overcrowded.
- Spray the tops of the falafel with a little olive oil.
- Cook for 12-15 minutes, flipping them halfway through the cooking time, until they are golden brown and crispy.
- Remove the falafel from the air fryer and let them cool slightly before serving.
How to Serve Air Fryer Falafel
Serving air fryer falafel is a fun and versatile process. You can start by placing the crispy falafel on a platter for sharing. Pair them with a variety of dips like tahini sauce, hummus, or a spicy yogurt sauce for a delicious appetizer spread. You can also incorporate them into a wrap or pita, along with fresh vegetables like lettuce, tomato, and cucumbers, topped with creamy tzatziki or a drizzle of tahini.
Another popular option is to create a falafel bowl, layering the falafel with quinoa or rice, roasted vegetables, and a generous scoop of your favorite dressing. This adds both nutrition and flavor. For an added crunch, sprinkle some toasted nuts or seeds on top. With all these serving options, air fryer falafel can easily transition from a snack to a hearty meal, making it a versatile addition to any table.
Expert Tips for Air Fryer Falafel
To ensure your air fryer falafel turns out perfectly every time, consider these expert tips. First, soaking the chickpeas overnight is essential; it softens them and helps achieve the right texture. Avoid using canned chickpeas, as they can lead to a mushy mixture.
When blending your ingredients, use a pulse motion, stopping short of achieving a smooth paste. You want to maintain some texture in the mixture for that authentic falafel bite. Using a tablespoon of water can help if you seem to struggle with binding the mixture.
Do not crowd the air fryer basket; space them out to allow proper air circulation, ensuring even cooking. If you have a large batch, you may need to do it in multiple rounds. Finally, for a crispier finish, consider lightly spraying or brushing the falafel with olive oil before cooking. This step enhances browning and gives them that crunchy exterior everyone loves.
How to Store Air Fryer Falafel
For storing leftover air fryer falafel, first allow them to cool completely on a wire rack. This prevents moisture buildup, ensuring they stay crispy. Place the cooled falafel in an airtight container. If you want to store them for a longer period, consider layering them between sheets of parchment paper to prevent sticking.
In the refrigerator, they can last up to 4-5 days. For longer storage, freeze the falafel by placing them on a baking sheet in a single layer first. Once frozen solid, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. Frozen falafel can last for several months. When you are ready to eat them, reheat them in the air fryer for a few minutes to restore their crispy texture.
Variations of Air Fryer Falafel
The beauty of air fryer falafel lies in the variety of approaches you can take with the ingredients. You can experiment by introducing different beans, such as black beans or lentils, to create unique flavor profiles. For a spicy kick, add chopped jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper to the mixture before cooking.
Another variation is to incorporate vegetables into the falafel. Finely shredded carrots or zucchini can add moisture and nutritional value. If you’re a fan of herbs, consider adding mint or dill for a fresh twist.
For those who like to experiment with grains, consider adding some cooked quinoa into the mixture for added texture and protein. Top your falafel with a variety of sauces or incorporate different spices to bring in diverse cuisines, such as adding curry powder for an Indian-inspired dish or using sesame seeds for a Middle Eastern flair.
FAQ about Air Fryer Falafel
Air fryer falafel has gained popularity, and many people have questions about it. One common question is: "Can I freeze air fryer falafel?" Yes, you can freeze them both before and after cooking. Make sure they are packed separately to avoid sticking.
Another question often asked is, "What should I serve with air fryer falafel?" They pair well with a variety of dips, salads, or as part of a grain bowl. For someone wondering if they can make air fryer falafel gluten-free, the answer is yes. Just ensure your baking powder and any added spices are gluten-free.
People also ask, "How long does it take to cook air fryer falafel?" It typically takes about 12-15 minutes at 375°F (190°C). Lastly, if you come across "Can I use canned chickpeas?" the answer is no; dried chickpeas soak up flavors better and achieve the right texture for falafel.
Air Fryer Falafel
Ingredients
Falafel Mixture
- 1 cup dried chickpeas, soaked overnight Do not use canned chickpeas.
- 1 small onion, roughly chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small bunch fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 small bunch fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- Salt to taste Salt
- Pepper to taste Pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil For brushing and binding.
- Optional: chili powder or cayenne pepper for heat
Instructions
Preparation
- Drain the soaked chickpeas and rinse them thoroughly. Make sure they are well-drained.
- In a food processor, add the chickpeas, onion, garlic, parsley, cilantro, cumin, coriander, baking powder, salt, and pepper. Pulse until the mixture is coarsely ground but not pureed.
- If the mixture feels too dry, add a small amount of water or olive oil to help it bind better.
- Scoop out the mixture and form small balls or patties, about the size of a golf ball.
Cooking
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Lightly brush or spray the air fryer basket with olive oil. Arrange the falafel in the basket in a single layer.
- Spray the tops of the falafel with a little olive oil.
- Cook for 12-15 minutes, flipping them halfway through until golden brown and crispy.
- Remove the falafel from the air fryer and let cool slightly before serving.
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