BestRecipesBlog.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
Air fryer falafel is a delightful twist on the classic Middle Eastern dish, transforming chickpeas and aromatic spices into crispy, golden-brown morsels without deep frying.
Origins of Falafel
A Culinary Journey
Falafel has a rich history that dates back to ancient Egypt, where it was believed to be made from fava beans. Over the centuries, this humble street food has evolved into a staple of various Middle Eastern cuisines. It’s often enjoyed in a pita wrap, accompanied by fresh vegetables and a drizzle of tahini sauce, embodying the region’s vibrant flavors.
Unique Ingredients and Flavors
The Heart of Falafel
What truly sets falafel apart is its medley of spices—cumin, coriander, and garlic—bringing depth and warmth to each bite. The use of fresh herbs like parsley and cilantro not only adds a burst of color but also elevates the flavor profile, giving it a refreshing kick.
Cooking Techniques
The Air Fryer Magic
The air fryer revolutionizes this beloved dish, allowing you to enjoy that satisfying crunch with significantly less oil. It’s a game-changer for anyone looking to indulge without the guilt, preserving the authentic taste while making it healthier. Forming the mixture into balls or patties ensures each piece cooks evenly, resulting in a delightful contrast between the crispy exterior and the soft, flavorful interior.
Embrace this recipe as a gateway to a world of flavors, and let your taste buds explore the wonders of falafel in a healthier, air-fried form.
Air Fryer Falafel
Description
These air fryer falafels are packed with flavor, crispy, and a fantastic vegetarian option that will satisfy your cravings without the extra oil.
Ingredients
Ingredients for Air Fryer Falafel
Instructions
Preparing the Chickpeas
-
Soak the Chickpeas
Place 1 cup of dried chickpeas in a bowl and cover them with plenty of water. Let them soak overnight or for at least 8 hours. This step is crucial for softening the chickpeas, making them easier to blend into a smooth mixture.Avoid using canned chickpeas for this recipe, as they won't yield the same texture and flavor.
Making the Falafel Mixture
-
Blend the Ingredients
Drain and rinse the soaked chickpeas. Add them to a food processor along with 1 small onion (roughly chopped), 2 cloves of garlic, 1/4 cup fresh parsley, 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, 1 teaspoon cumin, 1 teaspoon coriander, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and a pinch of cayenne pepper. Pulse until combined but still a bit chunky—think of the texture as a coarse crumb.Be careful not to over-blend; you want some texture in your falafel. -
Adjust the Consistency
If the mixture seems too dry, add a tablespoon of water at a time until it holds together but is not too wet. If it’s too wet, add a tablespoon of flour to help bind it.Chilling the mixture in the fridge for 30 minutes can help it hold its shape better when frying.
Shaping the Falafel
-
Forming the Balls
Using your hands, take about 2 tablespoons of the mixture and roll them into balls or patties. Aim for golf ball-sized portions for even cooking.Wet your hands with a little water to prevent sticking.
Cooking in the Air Fryer
-
Preheat the Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes. This helps achieve that crispy exterior.Don't skip this step—it's key to getting that lovely crunch! -
Air Fry the Falafel
Lightly spray the falafel balls with cooking oil and place them in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure they’re not touching. Cook for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.If you have a smaller air fryer, you may need to do this in batches.
Serving Suggestions
-
Enjoy Your Falafel
Serve the hot falafel in pita bread with fresh veggies, tahini sauce, or your favorite dipping sauce.These falafels are also great on their own as a snack or appetizer!
Note
- Use dried chickpeas instead of canned for a firmer texture; soak them overnight for best results.
- Add fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for enhanced flavor.
- Adjust spices according to your preference; consider cumin, coriander, or a pinch of cayenne for heat.
- For a creamier texture, blend in a tablespoon of tahini or a splash of olive oil.
- Preheat the air fryer for even cooking and to achieve that crispy exterior.
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket; cook in batches to ensure even browning.
- Flip the falafel halfway through cooking for uniform crispiness.
- Serve with a tangy tahini sauce or a refreshing yogurt dip to complement the flavors.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days; reheat in the air fryer to retain crispness.