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Easy and Crispy Air Fryer Falafel

Okay, folks, let’s talk falafel. We’re all about those easy wins, and nothing beats tossing some falafel into an air fryer for a quick, crispy delight. We first tried this on a whim after a long day—you know those days when you just want something tasty with zero effort?

Our air fryer came to the rescue, turning basic ingredients into golden-brown bites of goodness. Perfect for a snack, dinner, or even breakfast if you’re feeling wild. These little wonders are crispy outside and soft inside. Trust us, it’s a total keeper. Time to roll up our sleeves and make some magic!

Ingredients for Air Fryer Falafel

You don’t need a ton of ingredients to whip up these tasty bites. Here’s what you’ll need:

  • Chickpeas: A 15-ounce can of chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  • Onion: One small onion, roughly chopped
  • Garlic: 2-3 cloves, minced
  • Parsley and Cilantro: A handful of each, fresh if possible
  • Seasonings: Cumin, coriander, salt, pepper, and a pinch of cayenne for extra kick
  • Flour: A couple of tablespoons just to bind the mixture
  • Baking powder: Helps make them extra fluffy
  • Olive oil spray: For that golden, crispy finish

Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Falafel

Making falafel can be a bit tricky, but with these tips, you’ll nail it every time:

  • Dry your chickpeas well: Pat them dry with paper towels to get rid of excess moisture. This helps them hold together better.
  • Chill the mixture: If you have time, let the mixture chill in the fridge for about 30 minutes before forming the falafel balls. It makes them easier to shape.
  • Don’t over-process: Pulse the mixture just until combined. You want to keep some texture for that perfect bite.
  • Use a cookie scoop: For uniform balls that cook evenly, a cookie scoop is your best friend.

Variations and Substitutions

Alright, so you’re out of an ingredient or just have a wild idea for a twist on the traditional falafel? No worries, we’ve got you covered!

  • No chickpeas? You can use canned or cooked dried fava beans. Swap them in and you’ll get a whole new flavor profile.
  • Herb swap: No parsley or cilantro? Basil and mint can step in for a fresh alternative. Trust us, it may not be traditional but it sure is delicious!
  • Spice it up: Feeling a bit adventurous? Add a teaspoon of smoked paprika or even garam masala for a different spice kick.
  • Gluten-free option: Use chickpea flour or a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend instead of regular flour to keep things GF-friendly.
  • Want it extra fluffy?: Add a bit more baking powder and see those falafel puff up like a dream.
  • Oil-free version: For a healthier spin, you can bake the falafel in the oven at 375°F for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
the best Air Fryer Falafel

Easy and Crispy Air Fryer Falafel

Bite-sized falafel treats that are crispy, flavorful, and made right in your air fryer. These are perfect for stuffing into pitas, adding to salads, or just munching on their own.
5 from 1 vote
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine Middle Eastern
Servings 4 servings
Calories 33 kcal

Equipment

  • Air-fryer
  • Food processor
  • Mixing bowl

Ingredients
  

  • 1 can chickpeas drained and rinsed
  • 1 small onion roughly chopped
  • 2-3 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 salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • Pinch of cayenne pepper
  • 2 tablespoons flour or chickpea flour for GF option
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • Olive oil spray

Instructions
 

  • Preheat your air fryer to 375°F.
  • In a food processor, combine chickpeas, onion, garlic, parsley, cilantro, cumin, coriander, salt, pepper, and cayenne. Pulse until well combined but chunky.
  • Transfer the mixture to a bowl and stir in the flour and baking powder.
  • Form the mixture into small balls or patties and place them in the air fryer basket.
  • Lightly spray the falafel with olive oil.
  • Cook for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
  • Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce or stuffed in a pita with fresh veggies. Enjoy your air-fried falafel masterpiece!

Nutrition

Serving: 4falafel ballsCalories: 33kcalCarbohydrates: 7gProtein: 1gFat: 0.3gSaturated Fat: 0.04gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.1gMonounsaturated Fat: 0.2gSodium: 349mgPotassium: 94mgFiber: 1gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 391IUVitamin C: 8mgCalcium: 54mgIron: 1mg
Keyword air fryer, falafel
Did you make this recipe?Mention @CooksCrafter or tag #CooksCrafter!
5 from 1 vote
Recipe Rating




Andrew Gray

Friday 12th of July 2024

Five stars for the simplicity and taste! These recipes make me love my air fryer even more.

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