Growing up in a bustling, food-loving family, weekends were always filled with the tantalizing aroma of various home-cooked delights wafting through our kitchen. One such family favorite was falafel – a crispy, savory treat that we often enjoyed during our Sunday gatherings. The recipe I’m sharing with you today has a special place in my heart, as it’s not only a nod to my family’s culinary traditions but also a healthier twist on the classic falafel, thanks to the magic of the air fryer.
My love for falafel was rekindled during a trip to the Middle East. Wandering through vibrant markets, I was mesmerized by the array of spices and the incredible street food. It was there that I learned the secret to a truly delicious falafel lies in using dried chickpeas rather than canned ones. This simple tip ensures a texture that is both crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.
The beauty of this air fryer falafel recipe is in its simplicity and health benefits. Traditional deep-frying can be messy and adds unnecessary calories, but the air fryer method gives you that perfect crunch without the extra oil. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to prepare! With just a handful of fresh ingredients like parsley, cilantro, garlic, and spices, you can whip up a batch that’s perfect for meal prep, snack time, or even as a main course in a pita wrap.
What makes this recipe even more special is its versatility. You can tweak the spices to your liking – add more red pepper flakes for a spicy kick or more cumin for an earthy depth. And the best part? It’s a fantastic way to introduce more plant-based meals into your diet without compromising on flavor or satisfaction. So, gather your ingredients, fire up that air fryer, and get ready to enjoy a healthier take on a beloved classic. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!
Making the Air Fryer Falafel
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Ingredients
- 1 small onion (chopped)
- 1 cup parsley leaves (chopped)
- 1/2 cup cilantro leaves (chopped)
- 2 cups dried chickpeas (not canned or cooked)
- 5 garlic cloves (chopped)
- 2 tsp ground coriander
- 2 tsp ground cumin
- 1 1/2 tsp sea salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- Red pepper flakes (or cayenne pepper to taste)
- 1 tsp baking powder (optional, see notes)
- Cooking spray
Directions
The day before you plan to make the falafel, place the dried chickpeas in a large bowl and cover with plenty of water. Make sure the water level is at least 3 inches above the chickpeas. Soak for 18-24 hours. Drain and lightly pat dry with a paper towel.
In a large food processor, add the soaked chickpeas along with all other ingredients. If your food processor is small, you might need to work in batches. Process for about 20 seconds, scrape down the sides, and blend again until well combined but not mushy.
Refrigerate the falafel mixture in the food processor bowl for about 45-60 minutes or longer if needed.
Use an ice cream scooper to scoop the falafel mixture and shape it into balls or patties with your hands. Repeat with the remaining mixture.
Lightly spray the falafel balls with cooking spray. Also, spray the basket of your air fryer to prevent sticking. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F and set the timer for 15 minutes. Cook the falafel, flipping them after 10 minutes. They should be crispy and slightly browned on the outside. You might need to cook them in batches if necessary.
Serve hot on its own or in pita bread with tahini, lettuce, tomato, and cucumbers. Enjoy!
FAQs:
Can I use canned chickpeas for air fryer falafel?
While it’s possible to use canned chickpeas, it’s not recommended for this recipe. Canned chickpeas can result in a mushy texture that doesn’t hold together well. Instead, soaking dried chickpeas for 18-24 hours will give you the best consistency and flavor for your falafel.
What can I use as a substitute for cilantro?
If you don’t like cilantro or can’t find it, you can substitute it with more parsley or even fresh mint for a different flavor profile. This substitution works well and maintains the freshness of the falafel.
How do I prevent my falafel from falling apart in the air fryer?
To ensure your falafel holds together, make sure the mixture is well processed but not too smooth. Refrigerating the mixture for at least 45-60 minutes also helps bind the ingredients together. Additionally, using a bit of baking powder can aid in maintaining the shape and adding lightness to the falafel.
Can I freeze the falafel mixture for later use?
Yes, you can freeze the falafel mixture. After shaping the falafel balls or patties, place them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. When ready to cook, let them thaw slightly before placing them in the air fryer.
What are some serving suggestions for air fryer falafel?
Air fryer falafel can be enjoyed in various ways. Serve them in pita bread with tahini, lettuce, tomato, and cucumbers for a classic approach. They also work well on top of salads, as part of a mezze platter with hummus and other dips, or simply on their own as a tasty snack.
Air Fryer Falafel
Ingredients
- 1 small onion chopped
- 1 cup parsley leaves chopped
- 1/2 cup cilantro leaves chopped
- 2 cups dried chickpeas not canned or cooked
- 5 garlic cloves chopped
- 2 tsp ground coriander
- 2 tsp ground cumin
- 1 1/2 tsp sea salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- Red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to taste
- 1 tsp baking powder optional, see notes
- Cooking spray
Instructions
- The day before you plan to make the falafel, place the dried chickpeas in a large bowl and cover with plenty of water. Make sure the water level is at least 3 inches above the chickpeas. Soak for 18-24 hours. Drain and lightly pat dry with a paper towel.
- In a large food processor, add the soaked chickpeas along with all other ingredients. If your food processor is small, you might need to work in batches. Process for about 20 seconds, scrape down the sides, and blend again until well combined but not mushy.
- Refrigerate the falafel mixture in the food processor bowl for about 45-60 minutes or longer if needed.
- Use an ice cream scooper to scoop the falafel mixture and shape it into balls or patties with your hands. Repeat with the remaining mixture.
- Lightly spray the falafel balls with cooking spray. Also, spray the basket of your air fryer to prevent sticking. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F and set the timer for 15 minutes. Cook the falafel, flipping them after 10 minutes. They should be crispy and slightly browned on the outside. You might need to cook them in batches if necessary.
- Serve hot on its own or in pita bread with tahini, lettuce, tomato, and cucumbers. Enjoy!
