Air Fryer Falafel: 7 Healthy & Crispy Recipes to Try

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Air Fryer Falafel is a delightful twist on a beloved Middle Eastern classic. This recipe offers a healthier alternative to traditional falafel, using an air fryer instead of deep-frying. With soaked dried chickpeas, fresh herbs, and a blend of spices, these falafel balls feature a tender center and a crispy outer shell. They are perfect for those seeking a protein-rich, gluten-free, and vegan snack or meal option. You can enjoy them on their own or stuffed in pita bread with vegetables and tahini sauce.

Why You’ll Love This Air Fryer Falafel

There are countless reasons to adore this Air Fryer Falafel. First, it’s a healthy air fryer falafel option that doesn’t sacrifice taste. Secondly, this recipe is simple and quick, making it an excellent choice for meal prep. Thirdly, it’s vegan-friendly, which caters to a wide range of dietary preferences. Additionally, the falafel are gluten-free, allowing those with dietary restrictions to indulge. The crispy texture is unmatched when cooked in an air fryer, and they make a fantastic appetizer or snack. Lastly, you can customize the spices to suit your taste, making it versatile and fun to prepare!

Ingredients for Air Fryer Falafel

Gather these items:

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

How to Make Air Fryer Falafel Step-by-Step

Step 1: The day before preparing the falafel, soak the dried chickpeas in a large bowl filled with plenty of water, ensuring they 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.
Step 2: 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.
Step 3: 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.
Step 4: 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.
Step 5: 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).
Step 6: 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.
Step 7: 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.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Air Fryer Falafel

Keep these in mind:

For a spicier kick, adjust the amount of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper.
Baking powder is optional but can help achieve a lighter texture.
Use a quality air fryer to ensure even cooking and the best results.
Chilling the mixture before shaping helps maintain the balls’ structure during cooking.

Best Ways to Serve Air Fryer Falafel

There are several delightful ways to enjoy Air Fryer Falafel. One popular option is to serve them with tahini sauce, fresh veggies, and pita bread for a delicious wrap. You can also create a vibrant salad by adding the falafel to a bed of greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers. Another idea is to serve them as a dip with hummus or yogurt sauce. Feel free to get creative and experiment with air fryer falafel serving suggestions!

How to Store and Reheat Air Fryer Falafel

To store your Air Fryer Falafel, let them cool completely and then place them in an airtight container. They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply place them back in the air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes until heated through and crispy again. This recipe is also great for air fryer falafel for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy them throughout the week!

Frequently Asked Questions About Air Fryer Falafel

What’s the secret to perfect Air Fryer Falafel?

The secret lies in soaking the chickpeas and allowing the mixture to chill before cooking. This helps achieve that perfect texture—crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. For the best results, use fresh herbs and spices to enhance flavor.

Can I make Air Fryer Falafel ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the falafel mixture and shape them into balls or patties, then refrigerate them for up to a day. Simply cook them in the air fryer when you’re ready to serve.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Air Fryer Falafel?

Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket, as this can lead to uneven cooking. Also, ensure the chickpeas are dried properly after soaking to prevent mushiness in the mixture.

Variations of Air Fryer Falafel You Can Try

There are many ways to customize your Air Fryer Falafel. Consider adding spices like smoked paprika for a different flavor profile or incorporating grated zucchini for added moisture. You can also make a baked falafel in the air fryer by adjusting the cooking time for a lighter version. For a spicy kick, add more cayenne pepper or serve with a spicy tahini sauce!

For more information on the health benefits of chickpeas, check out this Healthline article.

To learn more about meal prep ideas, visit our Holiday Roasted Vegetables Recipe page.

For a delicious tahini sauce recipe, check out this Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken recipe.