Crispy Air Fryer Falafel Delightful and Easy Recipe

- 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 Dried chickpeas are the base of falafel. Soaking them overnight helps them soften. This makes them easy to blend. Fresh herbs like parsley and cilantro bring flavor. The onion and garlic add a nice aroma too. - 1 teaspoon ground cumin - 1 teaspoon ground coriander - 1/2 teaspoon baking soda - 1/2 teaspoon salt - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper - 1 tablespoon lemon juice - 1 tablespoon olive oil Ground cumin and coriander give falafel its warm taste. Baking soda helps the falafel puff up. Salt and black pepper enhance all the flavors. Lemon juice adds a fresh kick. Olive oil adds richness and helps with crispiness. Cooking spray is key for crispy falafel. It coats the outside and helps them brown evenly. Without it, the falafel might be dry or unevenly cooked. A light spray on both sides ensures a perfect crunch. {{ingredient_image_1}} To start, soak 1 cup of dried chickpeas overnight. This softens them and helps them blend well. The next day, drain and rinse the chickpeas thoroughly. This step removes any dirt and helps with flavor. After rinsing, pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel. Drying is key for crispiness. Less moisture means a better texture in your falafel. Now it’s time to blend. In a food processor, add the soaked chickpeas, 1 chopped onion, 3 minced garlic cloves, 1/4 cup of fresh parsley, 1/4 cup of fresh cilantro, and your spices: 1 teaspoon each of ground cumin and ground coriander, 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper. Also, add 1 tablespoon of lemon juice. Pulse until the mixture is coarse but holds together. Be careful not to over-process. You want a texture that is not too smooth. After blending, transfer the mixture to a bowl and chill for about 30 minutes. This makes shaping easier. When you’re ready, preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). While it preheats, shape the mixture into small balls or patties, about 1 to 1.5 inches wide. This size helps them cook evenly. Lightly brush or spray both sides with olive oil for that crispy finish. Place the falafel in a single layer in the air fryer basket, leaving space between each one. You may need to fry in batches. Cook for 12 to 15 minutes, flipping them halfway through. Look for a golden brown color and crisp edges. Enjoy your falafel hot! To get crispy falafel, oil is key. Lightly brush or spray each falafel with olive oil. This helps achieve a nice golden color. Place the falafel in a single layer in the air fryer. Avoid overcrowding. Give them space to cook evenly. If needed, cook in batches for the best result. Store leftover falafel in an airtight container. They can last in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, use the air fryer again. Set it to 375°F (190°C) for about 5-7 minutes. This keeps them crispy. You can also use an oven if you prefer. One common mistake is over-processing the mixture. You want a coarse texture that holds together, not a paste. Another mistake is improper shaping. Aim for small balls or patties, about 1-1.5 inches wide. This helps them cook evenly and get crispy on all sides. Pro Tips Soaking Time: Make sure to soak the chickpeas for at least 8 hours or overnight to ensure they soften properly for blending. Chill the Mixture: Refrigerating the falafel mixture for 30 minutes before shaping helps them hold their shape better during cooking. Don’t Overcrowd: Place the falafel in a single layer in the air fryer basket to allow for even cooking and maximum crispiness. Spice It Up: Feel free to customize the spices by adding cayenne pepper or paprika for an extra kick of flavor! {{image_2}} You can easily add heat to your falafel. Try using spices like cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes. Start with a pinch and taste the mixture. If you want more spice, add a little more. This gives your falafel a nice kick. The heat pairs well with cool dips like tahini or yogurt. For those who need gluten-free meals, chickpeas are already a great choice. You can skip any wheat-based fillers in falafel. Replace baking soda with gluten-free baking powder if needed. This keeps your falafel light and fluffy. You can enjoy it without worry! Experiment with fresh herbs for new tastes. Use dill, mint, or basil instead of parsley or cilantro. Each herb gives a unique twist to your falafel. Spices like smoked paprika or curry powder can also change the flavor. Just blend them into your mixture and enjoy the results! For crispy air fryer falafel, great dips make all the difference. You can try these homemade sauces: - Tahini Sauce: Blend tahini, lemon juice, garlic, and water. Adjust the thickness to your liking. - Yogurt Sauce: Mix plain yogurt with chopped cucumber, mint, and a pinch of salt. - Spicy Harissa Dip: Combine harissa paste with olive oil and a splash of lemon juice for a spicy kick. - Classic Hummus: Blend chickpeas, tahini, lemon, and garlic for a smooth dip. These sauces enhance the falafel’s flavor and add a fun twist. Pita bread is perfect for falafel. You can fill it with: - Fresh Vegetables: Add lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, or shredded carrots for crunch. - Pickled Veggies: Try pickled red onions or pickles for a tangy contrast. - Herbs: Sprinkle fresh parsley or mint for extra freshness. - Hot Sauce: Drizzle your favorite hot sauce for a spicy kick. Wrap your falafel in pita for a tasty and satisfying meal. Serving falafel with side dishes can make your meal even better. Consider these options: - Tabbouleh: This fresh salad made with parsley, tomatoes, and bulgur is light and tasty. - Roasted Vegetables: Serve roasted zucchini, bell peppers, or eggplant for a warm side. - Fries: Sweet potato or regular fries pair well with falafel. - Rice Pilaf: A fluffy rice pilaf adds a nice base for your meal. These sides complement the crispy falafel and create a balanced plate. Yes, you can use canned chickpeas. However, the texture may differ. Canned chickpeas are softer and more moist. This can make the falafel less crispy. To counter this, drain and rinse them well. Pat them dry to remove excess water. You might need to adjust the seasoning as canned chickpeas can be saltier. To know when your falafel is done, look for a golden brown color. They should be firm and crisp on the outside. You can also check by gently pressing them; they should not feel mushy. If you flip them halfway through cooking, it helps achieve an even color. Yes, you can freeze falafel. After cooking, let them cool completely. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag. For thawing, take them out and let them sit at room temperature. Reheat in the air fryer to restore crispiness. Crispy air fryer falafel is a tasty and healthy choice. We explored key ingredients like dried chickpeas, herbs, and seasonings. Preparing the batter and cooking it right ensures a perfect crunch. Remember to store leftovers properly and avoid common mistakes. You can also spice it up or go gluten-free! Try serving with fresh vegetables in pita or with delicious dips. Enjoy the creative journey of making falafel that suits your taste.

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?

Are you ready to make the crispiest air fryer falafel? This simple recipe is full of flavor and easy to follow. You’ll need dried chickpeas, fresh herbs, and a few tasty spices. In no time, you’ll serve a delightful dish that everyone will love. Join me as I guide you step-by-step to crispy perfection. Let’s dive into the world of air fryer falafel!

Why I Love This Recipe

  1. Healthier Option: Using an air fryer drastically reduces the amount of oil needed, making this falafel a guilt-free delight.
  2. Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in under an hour, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
  3. Customizable: You can easily tweak the herbs and spices to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs.
  4. Deliciously Crispy: The air fryer gives these falafels a wonderful golden-brown crust while keeping the inside tender and flavorful.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients for Crispy Air Fryer Falafel

– 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

Dried chickpeas are the base of falafel. Soaking them overnight helps them soften. This makes them easy to blend. Fresh herbs like parsley and cilantro bring flavor. The onion and garlic add a nice aroma too.

Seasonings and Additives

– 1 teaspoon ground cumin

– 1 teaspoon ground coriander

– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda

– 1/2 teaspoon salt

– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

– 1 tablespoon lemon juice

– 1 tablespoon olive oil

Ground cumin and coriander give falafel its warm taste. Baking soda helps the falafel puff up. Salt and black pepper enhance all the flavors. Lemon juice adds a fresh kick. Olive oil adds richness and helps with crispiness.

Cooking Spray

Cooking spray is key for crispy falafel. It coats the outside and helps them brown evenly. Without it, the falafel might be dry or unevenly cooked. A light spray on both sides ensures a perfect crunch.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Chickpeas

To start, soak 1 cup of dried chickpeas overnight. This softens them and helps them blend well. The next day, drain and rinse the chickpeas thoroughly. This step removes any dirt and helps with flavor. After rinsing, pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel. Drying is key for crispiness. Less moisture means a better texture in your falafel.

Blending the Mixture

Now it’s time to blend. In a food processor, add the soaked chickpeas, 1 chopped onion, 3 minced garlic cloves, 1/4 cup of fresh parsley, 1/4 cup of fresh cilantro, and your spices: 1 teaspoon each of ground cumin and ground coriander, 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper. Also, add 1 tablespoon of lemon juice. Pulse until the mixture is coarse but holds together. Be careful not to over-process. You want a texture that is not too smooth.

Shaping and Air Frying

After blending, transfer the mixture to a bowl and chill for about 30 minutes. This makes shaping easier. When you’re ready, preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). While it preheats, shape the mixture into small balls or patties, about 1 to 1.5 inches wide. This size helps them cook evenly. Lightly brush or spray both sides with olive oil for that crispy finish. Place the falafel in a single layer in the air fryer basket, leaving space between each one. You may need to fry in batches. Cook for 12 to 15 minutes, flipping them halfway through. Look for a golden brown color and crisp edges. Enjoy your falafel hot!

Tips & Tricks

Achieving Maximum Crispiness

To get crispy falafel, oil is key. Lightly brush or spray each falafel with olive oil. This helps achieve a nice golden color. Place the falafel in a single layer in the air fryer. Avoid overcrowding. Give them space to cook evenly. If needed, cook in batches for the best result.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover falafel in an airtight container. They can last in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, use the air fryer again. Set it to 375°F (190°C) for about 5-7 minutes. This keeps them crispy. You can also use an oven if you prefer.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

One common mistake is over-processing the mixture. You want a coarse texture that holds together, not a paste. Another mistake is improper shaping. Aim for small balls or patties, about 1-1.5 inches wide. This helps them cook evenly and get crispy on all sides.

Pro Tips

  1. Soaking Time: Make sure to soak the chickpeas for at least 8 hours or overnight to ensure they soften properly for blending.
  2. Chill the Mixture: Refrigerating the falafel mixture for 30 minutes before shaping helps them hold their shape better during cooking.
  3. Don’t Overcrowd: Place the falafel in a single layer in the air fryer basket to allow for even cooking and maximum crispiness.
  4. Spice It Up: Feel free to customize the spices by adding cayenne pepper or paprika for an extra kick of flavor!

Variations

Spicy Air Fryer Falafel

You can easily add heat to your falafel. Try using spices like cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes. Start with a pinch and taste the mixture. If you want more spice, add a little more. This gives your falafel a nice kick. The heat pairs well with cool dips like tahini or yogurt.

Gluten-Free Options

For those who need gluten-free meals, chickpeas are already a great choice. You can skip any wheat-based fillers in falafel. Replace baking soda with gluten-free baking powder if needed. This keeps your falafel light and fluffy. You can enjoy it without worry!

Different Flavor Infusions

Experiment with fresh herbs for new tastes. Use dill, mint, or basil instead of parsley or cilantro. Each herb gives a unique twist to your falafel. Spices like smoked paprika or curry powder can also change the flavor. Just blend them into your mixture and enjoy the results!

Serving Suggestions

Dips and Sauces

For crispy air fryer falafel, great dips make all the difference. You can try these homemade sauces:

Tahini Sauce: Blend tahini, lemon juice, garlic, and water. Adjust the thickness to your liking.

Yogurt Sauce: Mix plain yogurt with chopped cucumber, mint, and a pinch of salt.

Spicy Harissa Dip: Combine harissa paste with olive oil and a splash of lemon juice for a spicy kick.

Classic Hummus: Blend chickpeas, tahini, lemon, and garlic for a smooth dip.

These sauces enhance the falafel’s flavor and add a fun twist.

Serving in Pita

Pita bread is perfect for falafel. You can fill it with:

Fresh Vegetables: Add lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, or shredded carrots for crunch.

Pickled Veggies: Try pickled red onions or pickles for a tangy contrast.

Herbs: Sprinkle fresh parsley or mint for extra freshness.

Hot Sauce: Drizzle your favorite hot sauce for a spicy kick.

Wrap your falafel in pita for a tasty and satisfying meal.

Side Dishes

Serving falafel with side dishes can make your meal even better. Consider these options:

Tabbouleh: This fresh salad made with parsley, tomatoes, and bulgur is light and tasty.

Roasted Vegetables: Serve roasted zucchini, bell peppers, or eggplant for a warm side.

Fries: Sweet potato or regular fries pair well with falafel.

Rice Pilaf: A fluffy rice pilaf adds a nice base for your meal.

These sides complement the crispy falafel and create a balanced plate.

FAQs

Can I use canned chickpeas instead of dried?

Yes, you can use canned chickpeas. However, the texture may differ. Canned chickpeas are softer and more moist. This can make the falafel less crispy. To counter this, drain and rinse them well. Pat them dry to remove excess water. You might need to adjust the seasoning as canned chickpeas can be saltier.

How do I know when the falafel is done?

To know when your falafel is done, look for a golden brown color. They should be firm and crisp on the outside. You can also check by gently pressing them; they should not feel mushy. If you flip them halfway through cooking, it helps achieve an even color.

Can I freeze crispy air fryer falafel?

Yes, you can freeze falafel. After cooking, let them cool completely. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag. For thawing, take them out and let them sit at room temperature. Reheat in the air fryer to restore crispiness.

Crispy air fryer falafel is a tasty and healthy choice. We explored key ingredients like dried chickpeas, herbs, and seasonings. Preparing the batter and cooking it right ensures a perfect crunch. Remember to store leftovers properly and avoid common mistakes. You can also spice it up or go gluten-free!

Try serving with fresh vegetables in pita or with delicious dips. Enjoy the creative journey of making falafel that suits your tast

- 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 Dried chickpeas are the base of falafel. Soaking them overnight helps them soften. This makes them easy to blend. Fresh herbs like parsley and cilantro bring flavor. The onion and garlic add a nice aroma too. - 1 teaspoon ground cumin - 1 teaspoon ground coriander - 1/2 teaspoon baking soda - 1/2 teaspoon salt - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper - 1 tablespoon lemon juice - 1 tablespoon olive oil Ground cumin and coriander give falafel its warm taste. Baking soda helps the falafel puff up. Salt and black pepper enhance all the flavors. Lemon juice adds a fresh kick. Olive oil adds richness and helps with crispiness. Cooking spray is key for crispy falafel. It coats the outside and helps them brown evenly. Without it, the falafel might be dry or unevenly cooked. A light spray on both sides ensures a perfect crunch. {{ingredient_image_1}} To start, soak 1 cup of dried chickpeas overnight. This softens them and helps them blend well. The next day, drain and rinse the chickpeas thoroughly. This step removes any dirt and helps with flavor. After rinsing, pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel. Drying is key for crispiness. Less moisture means a better texture in your falafel. Now it’s time to blend. In a food processor, add the soaked chickpeas, 1 chopped onion, 3 minced garlic cloves, 1/4 cup of fresh parsley, 1/4 cup of fresh cilantro, and your spices: 1 teaspoon each of ground cumin and ground coriander, 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper. Also, add 1 tablespoon of lemon juice. Pulse until the mixture is coarse but holds together. Be careful not to over-process. You want a texture that is not too smooth. After blending, transfer the mixture to a bowl and chill for about 30 minutes. This makes shaping easier. When you’re ready, preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). While it preheats, shape the mixture into small balls or patties, about 1 to 1.5 inches wide. This size helps them cook evenly. Lightly brush or spray both sides with olive oil for that crispy finish. Place the falafel in a single layer in the air fryer basket, leaving space between each one. You may need to fry in batches. Cook for 12 to 15 minutes, flipping them halfway through. Look for a golden brown color and crisp edges. Enjoy your falafel hot! To get crispy falafel, oil is key. Lightly brush or spray each falafel with olive oil. This helps achieve a nice golden color. Place the falafel in a single layer in the air fryer. Avoid overcrowding. Give them space to cook evenly. If needed, cook in batches for the best result. Store leftover falafel in an airtight container. They can last in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, use the air fryer again. Set it to 375°F (190°C) for about 5-7 minutes. This keeps them crispy. You can also use an oven if you prefer. One common mistake is over-processing the mixture. You want a coarse texture that holds together, not a paste. Another mistake is improper shaping. Aim for small balls or patties, about 1-1.5 inches wide. This helps them cook evenly and get crispy on all sides. Pro Tips Soaking Time: Make sure to soak the chickpeas for at least 8 hours or overnight to ensure they soften properly for blending. Chill the Mixture: Refrigerating the falafel mixture for 30 minutes before shaping helps them hold their shape better during cooking. Don’t Overcrowd: Place the falafel in a single layer in the air fryer basket to allow for even cooking and maximum crispiness. Spice It Up: Feel free to customize the spices by adding cayenne pepper or paprika for an extra kick of flavor! {{image_2}} You can easily add heat to your falafel. Try using spices like cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes. Start with a pinch and taste the mixture. If you want more spice, add a little more. This gives your falafel a nice kick. The heat pairs well with cool dips like tahini or yogurt. For those who need gluten-free meals, chickpeas are already a great choice. You can skip any wheat-based fillers in falafel. Replace baking soda with gluten-free baking powder if needed. This keeps your falafel light and fluffy. You can enjoy it without worry! Experiment with fresh herbs for new tastes. Use dill, mint, or basil instead of parsley or cilantro. Each herb gives a unique twist to your falafel. Spices like smoked paprika or curry powder can also change the flavor. Just blend them into your mixture and enjoy the results! For crispy air fryer falafel, great dips make all the difference. You can try these homemade sauces: - Tahini Sauce: Blend tahini, lemon juice, garlic, and water. Adjust the thickness to your liking. - Yogurt Sauce: Mix plain yogurt with chopped cucumber, mint, and a pinch of salt. - Spicy Harissa Dip: Combine harissa paste with olive oil and a splash of lemon juice for a spicy kick. - Classic Hummus: Blend chickpeas, tahini, lemon, and garlic for a smooth dip. These sauces enhance the falafel’s flavor and add a fun twist. Pita bread is perfect for falafel. You can fill it with: - Fresh Vegetables: Add lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, or shredded carrots for crunch. - Pickled Veggies: Try pickled red onions or pickles for a tangy contrast. - Herbs: Sprinkle fresh parsley or mint for extra freshness. - Hot Sauce: Drizzle your favorite hot sauce for a spicy kick. Wrap your falafel in pita for a tasty and satisfying meal. Serving falafel with side dishes can make your meal even better. Consider these options: - Tabbouleh: This fresh salad made with parsley, tomatoes, and bulgur is light and tasty. - Roasted Vegetables: Serve roasted zucchini, bell peppers, or eggplant for a warm side. - Fries: Sweet potato or regular fries pair well with falafel. - Rice Pilaf: A fluffy rice pilaf adds a nice base for your meal. These sides complement the crispy falafel and create a balanced plate. Yes, you can use canned chickpeas. However, the texture may differ. Canned chickpeas are softer and more moist. This can make the falafel less crispy. To counter this, drain and rinse them well. Pat them dry to remove excess water. You might need to adjust the seasoning as canned chickpeas can be saltier. To know when your falafel is done, look for a golden brown color. They should be firm and crisp on the outside. You can also check by gently pressing them; they should not feel mushy. If you flip them halfway through cooking, it helps achieve an even color. Yes, you can freeze falafel. After cooking, let them cool completely. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag. For thawing, take them out and let them sit at room temperature. Reheat in the air fryer to restore crispiness. Crispy air fryer falafel is a tasty and healthy choice. We explored key ingredients like dried chickpeas, herbs, and seasonings. Preparing the batter and cooking it right ensures a perfect crunch. Remember to store leftovers properly and avoid common mistakes. You can also spice it up or go gluten-free! Try serving with fresh vegetables in pita or with delicious dips. Enjoy the creative journey of making falafel that suits your taste.

Crispy Air Fryer Falafel

Delicious and crispy falafel made in an air fryer, perfect for a healthy snack or meal.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Appetizer
Cuisine Middle Eastern
Servings 4
Calories 150 kcal

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 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon ground coriander
  • 1 2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 as needed cooking spray

Instructions
 

  • After soaking the chickpeas overnight, drain and rinse them thoroughly. Pat them dry with a kitchen towel to remove excess moisture.
  • In a food processor, add the chickpeas, onion, garlic, parsley, cilantro, cumin, coriander, baking soda, salt, pepper, and lemon juice. Pulse until the mixture is coarse but holds together—do not over-process.
  • Transfer the mixture to a bowl and refrigerate for about 30 minutes. This helps the mixture firm up for easier shaping.
  • Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). While it preheats, shape the chilled chickpea mixture into small balls or patties, about 1-1.5 inches in diameter.
  • Lightly brush or spray both sides of the falafel with olive oil to ensure they crisp up nicely.
  • Arrange the falafel in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not overcrowded. You may need to do multiple batches.
  • Air fry the falafel for 12-15 minutes, flipping them halfway through, until they are golden brown and crispy.
  • Once cooked, remove from the air fryer and serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce or wrap in pita bread with fresh vegetables.

Notes

Soaking the chickpeas overnight is essential for the right texture.
Keyword air fryer, chickpeas, falafel, vegetarian

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