Air Fryer Falafel is a game-changing dish that brings the rich flavors of traditional Middle Eastern falafel into the modern kitchen with the ease and healthiness of an air fryer. These crispy, golden-brown chickpea balls are seasoned with fragrant herbs and spices, resulting in a delectable snack or meal that’s not only satisfying but also packed with plant-based protein. The air fryer cooks them to perfection with significantly less oil, making it a guilt-free indulgence that everyone will enjoy!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
This recipe for Air Fryer Falafel is beloved not just for its incredible flavor but also for its simplicity. With a handful of pantry staples, you can whip up a batch in no time. The air fryer enables you to achieve that coveted crunch without the deep-frying mess, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights and meal prepping. Plus, it’s a fantastic option for those following a vegan or vegetarian lifestyle, ensuring you get your protein fix while savoring a delicious dish that is sure to impress family and friends alike.
Tips and Tricks
To achieve the best falafel, soak your dried chickpeas overnight instead of using canned ones; this helps them hold their shape better. Don’t overload your air fryer basket; cook in batches to ensure even cooking. Experiment with spices like cumin, coriander, and a hint of cayenne for extra kick! If your mixture feels too dry, a splash of water can help bind it together without compromising the texture. Finally, give the falafel a light spray of oil before cooking for that perfect golden finish.
Make Ahead Tips
Falafel is perfect for meal prepping! You can prepare the mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just make sure to keep it covered. You can also shape the falafel balls and freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to an airtight container. When you’re ready to cook, there’s no need to thaw; just pop them directly into the air fryer, adding a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time.
Recipe Variations
Feel free to play with the flavor by adding different herbs like parsley, mint, or dill to the mix. You can also try swapping chickpeas for lentils or black beans for a unique twist. If you want a spicy kick, add chopped jalapeños or a dash of sriracha to the mixture. For a lighter version, consider making falafel burgers by flattening the balls and serving them on whole grain buns.
How to Serve
Serve your Air Fryer Falafel warm, drizzled with tahini sauce or a zesty yogurt sauce. They pair beautifully with a fresh tabbouleh salad or tucked into pita bread with crisp lettuce, tomatoes, and cucumbers. For a beautiful presentation, arrange the falafel on a platter garnished with fresh herbs and lemon wedges to brighten the dish.
Pairing Suggestions
This dish goes wonderfully with a cool, refreshing drink such as a mint lemonade or a chilled white wine like Sauvignon Blanc. For sides, consider a classic Mediterranean salad or roasted vegetables. To finish off the meal, serve a light dessert like baklava or a simple fruit salad to cleanse the palate.
How to Store
Leftover falafel can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze the uncooked falafel mixture or cooked falafel balls. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When reheating, simply pop them back into the air fryer for a few minutes to restore that crispy exterior.
Equipment Needed
You will need an air fryer for this recipe, which is essential for achieving that crispy texture with minimal oil. A food processor is also recommended for blending the chickpeas and spices. If you don’t have an air fryer, you can bake the falafel in a conventional oven at a high temperature, although the texture may differ slightly.
Dietary Adaptations
This Air Fryer Falafel recipe is naturally vegan and gluten-free. If you need to make it nut-free, you’re in luck as this recipe doesn’t include nuts. For those who are sensitive to gluten, just ensure that any sauces or pita you serve with it are gluten-free.
Seasonal Adaptations
In spring and summer, you can incorporate fresh herbs like basil or cilantro, which will enhance the flavor profile. In the fall, consider adding spices like pumpkin pie spice for a twist on traditional falafel. During winter, pairing with hearty roasted vegetables can create a warm, comforting meal.
Recipe FAQs
Q: Can I use canned chickpeas?
A: While it’s possible, using dried chickpeas soaked overnight is recommended for better texture.
Q: How long should I cook the falafel?
A: Typically, 12-15 minutes at 375°F in the air fryer works well, but check halfway through!
Q: Can I bake these instead?
A: Yes, you can bake them at 400°F for about 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, but they may not be as crispy.
How To Make Air Fryer Falafel
Air Fryer Falafel
Air Fryer Falafel is a game-changing dish that brings the rich flavors of traditional Middle Eastern falafel into the modern kitchen with the ease and healthiness of an air fryer.
Ingredients
- 1 cup dried chickpeas, soaked overnight
- 1 small onion, roughly chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp ground coriander
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2-3 tbsp flour (for binding)
- Cooking spray (for air frying)
Instructions
- Drain and rinse the soaked chickpeas. Place them in a food processor along with onion, garlic, parsley, cilantro, cumin, coriander, baking powder, salt, and pepper.
- Pulse until the mixture is coarse but well combined. Scrape down the sides as needed.
- If the mixture feels too wet, slowly add flour, one tablespoon at a time, until it holds together.
- Form the mixture into small balls (about 1.5 inches) and place them on a baking sheet.
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Lightly spray the falafel balls with cooking spray.
- Place falafel in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd.
- Cook for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
- Once cooked, remove from the air fryer and let cool slightly before serving.
Nutrition Information
Yield
8Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 63Total Fat 1gSaturated Fat 0gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 1gCholesterol 0mgSodium 71mgCarbohydrates 12gFiber 2gSugar 1gProtein 3g
dinnerbytes.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although dinnerbytes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
Air Fryer Falafel is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavors, textures, and healthy eating. Whether you’re serving it at a dinner party or enjoying a quiet lunch, this recipe is bound to impress. The ease of preparation, combined with the fantastic flavors, makes it a must-try for any home cook looking to add a nutritious and delicious dish to their repertoire. Happy cooking!
