Air fryer falafel is a delightful twist on a classic Middle Eastern dish, easily bringing the essence of crispy, flavorful bites into your kitchen without the guilt of deep frying. If you’re searching for a quick, healthy dinner or a fun appetizer, this recipe is just the ticket! With vibrant herbs and hearty chickpeas, these falafels are not only satisfying but also a fantastic way to enjoy plant-based goodness.
Why you’ll love this dish
These air fryer falafel are a must-try for anyone who loves delicious, healthy food that’s made with simple ingredients. Not only are they budget-friendly, but they also come together in no time, making them perfect for a weeknight family dinner or a lively brunch.
"Absolutely the best falafel I’ve ever made at home! Crispy on the outside, perfectly soft inside, and full of flavor. They’re a hit with the kids too!" – A satisfied home cook.
Step-by-step overview
Making air fryer falafel is an incredibly straightforward process that anyone can follow. From blending the ingredients to the magic of the air fryer that gives you that crispy texture, every step is rewarding. You’ll start by blending the chickpeas and herbs, shape them, and then fry them up until golden brown.
Each stage is easy, and you’ll see how quickly and effortlessly you can enjoy delicious falafel right at home!
What you’ll need
To whip up these flavorful falafels, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil spray
Feel free to substitute fresh herbs for dried ones if that’s what you have on hand, though fresh will provide a more vibrant flavor!
Directions to follow
- Start by placing the chickpeas, parsley, cilantro, onion, garlic, cumin, coriander, baking powder, salt, and pepper into a food processor. Blend until you achieve a coarse mixture.
- Form the blend into small balls or patties, depending on your preference.
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Lightly spray the falafel with olive oil, then arrange them in the air fryer basket without overcrowding.
- Cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the falafel are golden brown and crispy.
- Serve hot with pita bread, drizzled with tahini sauce, or tossed into a fresh salad.
Best ways to enjoy it
There are countless ways to savor your homemade falafel! Serve them in warm pita bread with crisp veggies and tangy tahini sauce for a classic wrap. Alternatively, pair them with a refreshing salad or as part of a mezze platter alongside hummus, baba ganoush, and fresh pita chips.
Dressing them with tzatziki or cilantro yogurt sauce also elevates their flavors!
Storage and reheating tips
If you find yourself with leftovers (though it’s hard to resist!), store the falafel in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, pop them back in the air fryer for a few minutes to regain their crispy exterior. For longer storage, you can freeze the uncooked patties; just remember to separate each with parchment paper. They’ll stay fresh for about one month.
Helpful cooking tips
To make sure you achieve the perfect texture and flavor, make sure to thoroughly drain and rinse the chickpeas to avoid excess moisture. If your mixture looks too wet, you can add a tablespoon of flour to help bind it better. Also, don’t skimp on the herbs—they’re key to vibrant flavor!
Creative twists
Feeling adventurous? Try incorporating some spices like smoked paprika or a pinch of cayenne for a bit of heat! You could also experiment by adding different herbs such as mint or dill. For a Mediterranean twist, consider serving them with a roasted red pepper hummus rather than tahini.
Common questions
What can I serve with air fryer falafel?
Serving suggestions include fresh salads, pita bread, hummus, or yogurt sauces. Pair them with grilled vegetables or tabbouleh for a complete meal.
How long does it take to prepare?
From start to finish, including cooking time, you can expect to have your falafel ready in about 30-40 minutes.
Can I freeze the falafel?
Yes, you can freeze uncooked falafel patties. They will stay fresh for about one month. Just make sure to separate them with parchment paper before freezing to avoid sticking.
Making air fryer falafel is not only easy, delicious, and healthy, but it also opens the door to a world of flavorful culinary adventures right at home. Enjoy your cooking experience!
Air Fryer Falafel
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed Use canned for convenience.
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped Fresh herbs provide vibrant flavor.
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped Can substitute with dried herbs.
- 1 small onion, chopped Adds flavor to the mixture.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced Enhances flavor.
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder Helps achieve a lighter texture.
- to taste Salt and pepper Season to preference.
- as needed Olive oil spray For coating falafel before air frying.
Instructions
Preparation
- Place chickpeas, parsley, cilantro, onion, garlic, cumin, coriander, baking powder, salt, and pepper into a food processor. Blend until a coarse mixture forms.
- Form the mixture into small balls or patties.
- Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Lightly spray the formed falafel with olive oil and arrange them in the air fryer basket without overcrowding.
Cooking
- Cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the falafel are golden brown and crispy.
Serving
- Serve hot with pita bread, drizzled with tahini sauce, or tossed into a fresh salad.