Description
This Air Fryer Falafel recipe offers a healthier twist on the traditional Middle Eastern favorite by using an air fryer instead of deep-frying. Featuring soaked dried chickpeas blended with fresh herbs and spices, these falafel balls have a tender center and a crispy, golden outer shell. Perfect for a protein-rich, gluten-free, vegan snack or meal option.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups dried chickpeas (not canned or cooked)
- 5 garlic cloves, chopped
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 1 cup parsley leaves, chopped
- 1/2 cup cilantro leaves, 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)
- Cooking spray
Instructions
- The day before preparing the falafel, soak the dried chickpeas in a large bowl filled with plenty of water, making sure the chickpeas are covered by at least 3 inches (7 cm). Let them soak for 18 to 24 hours to soften. After soaking, drain thoroughly and pat them dry with a paper towel if they are wet.
- Transfer the soaked chickpeas along with the chopped garlic, onion, parsley, cilantro, ground coriander, cumin, sea salt, black pepper, red pepper flakes, and optional baking powder into a large food processor. Process for about 20 seconds, scrape down the sides, and continue blending in short bursts until the mixture is finely combined but not mushy.
- Refrigerate the blended falafel mixture in the food processor bowl for 45 to 60 minutes (or longer) to help it firm up, making it easier to handle and shape.
- Using an ice cream scooper or spoon, scoop out portions of the chilled mixture and shape them by hand into balls or patties, depending on your preference. Repeat with the remaining mixture.
- Lightly spray the falafel balls with cooking spray and also spray the air fryer basket to prevent sticking. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Place the falafel balls in the air fryer basket in a single layer, avoiding overcrowding. Cook for 15 minutes, flipping the falafel after 10 minutes to ensure even crisping. They should turn crispy and lightly browned on the outside.
- Enjoy the falafel hot on its own or assemble them into pita bread with tahini sauce, lettuce, tomato, and cucumbers for a delicious and satisfying meal.
Notes
- Optional baking powder can make the falafel lighter.
- Prep Time: 24 hours
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: Air Fryer
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 falafel ball
- Calories: 63
- Sugar: 0 g
- Sodium: 200 mg
- Fat: 1 g
- Saturated Fat: 0 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 11 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 3 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg