Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Air Fryer Falafel is the perfect balance of crispy and soft, with a burst of flavor from the combination of garlic, parsley, cilantro, and spices like cumin and coriander. The air fryer ensures a crisp texture on the outside while keeping the inside soft and moist, without the excess oil from deep frying. It’s a healthier alternative that still delivers the same great taste. Plus, it’s simple to make, plant-based, and gluten-free, making it an ideal choice for a wide range of dietary preferences.

Ingredients

1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed (or 1 1/2 cups cooked chickpeas)
1 small onion, roughly chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
2 tablespoons flour (or chickpea flour for a gluten-free version)
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon ground coriander
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
2 tablespoons olive oil (for brushing or spraying)
1-2 tablespoons lemon juice
Optional: 1/4 teaspoon chili flakes or cayenne pepper for heat

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Prepare the Falafel Mixture:

Blend the ingredients: In a food processor, combine the chickpeas, onion, garlic, parsley, cilantro, cumin, coriander, salt, pepper, and baking powder. Pulse until the mixture is finely chopped but not completely pureed. You want the mixture to have some texture.
Add flour and lemon juice: Add the flour and lemon juice to the chickpea mixture and pulse again until well combined. The mixture should be thick and hold together when you form it into a ball. If it’s too wet, add a bit more flour. If it’s too dry, add a tablespoon of water.
Chill the mixture: Transfer the falafel mixture to a bowl, cover it, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Chilling the mixture helps the falafel hold together better during cooking.

Shape the Falafel:

Form the falafel balls: Once the mixture has chilled, scoop about 1 tablespoon of the mixture and roll it into a ball or shape it into a small patty (about the size of a golf ball or slightly smaller). Repeat with the remaining mixture.

Cook the Falafel:

Preheat the air fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes.
Air fry the falafel: Lightly spray or brush the air fryer basket with olive oil to prevent sticking. Place the falafel balls in the basket, leaving space between each one. Brush or spray the tops of the falafel with olive oil for a crispier exterior.
Cook: Air fry the falafel at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside.
Serve: Once done, remove the falafel from the air fryer and let them cool slightly before serving.

Serve and Enjoy:

Serve: Serve your air fryer falafel with pita bread, hummus, tahini, a fresh salad, or your favorite dipping sauce. Garnish with extra parsley or a squeeze of lemon juice for added flavor.
Enjoy: Enjoy your crispy, flavorful Air Fryer Falafel!

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4-6
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Chilling time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 12-15 minutes
Total time: 1 hour (including chilling)

Variations

Spicy Falafel: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the mixture for a spicy kick.
Add extra veggies: Finely chopped spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers can be added to the falafel mixture for extra flavor and nutrition.
Gluten-free version: Use chickpea flour or gluten-free all-purpose flour to make the falafel gluten-free.
Baked version: If you don’t have an air fryer, bake the falafel in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftover falafel in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing: Freeze cooked falafel in a single layer on a baking sheet for about 2 hours, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. Reheat in the air fryer or oven at 375°F (190°C) for 5-7 minutes until hot and crispy.
Reheating: Reheat falafel in the air fryer or oven at 375°F (190°C) for a few minutes until warmed through.

FAQs

1. Can I use dried chickpeas instead of canned?

Yes, you can use dried chickpeas, but they need to be cooked first. Soak the dried chickpeas overnight and then cook them in boiling water until soft. Drain and cool before using.

2. Can I freeze the falafel mixture before cooking?

Yes, you can freeze the uncooked falafel mixture. Form the balls, freeze them on a baking sheet, and then transfer them to a freezer bag. When ready to cook, air fry the frozen falafel for 15-18 minutes at 375°F (190°C).

3. How do I make the falafel extra crispy?

For a crispier falafel, lightly brush or spray them with olive oil before air frying. You can also flip them halfway through the cooking time to ensure even crispiness.

4. How do I keep falafel from falling apart?

Chill the falafel mixture in the fridge before cooking to help them hold their shape. Make sure not to over-process the mixture in the food processor—aim for a coarse texture. Also, use enough flour to bind the mixture together.

5. Can I make these falafel gluten-free?

Yes! You can use chickpea flour, rice flour, or a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of regular flour to make them gluten-free.

6. Can I bake falafel instead of air frying?

Yes, you can bake falafel in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through. They may not be as crispy as air-fried falafel but will still be delicious.

Conclusion

Air Fryer Falafel is a healthier, quicker alternative to traditional falafel, providing a crispy exterior and soft, flavorful center with much less oil. It’s easy to make, full of flavor, and can be customized to your taste. Whether you’re enjoying it in a pita with fresh vegetables and tahini or serving it on a salad, Air Fryer Falafel is a satisfying, plant-based dish that will become a staple in your cooking rotation. Enjoy these crispy, flavorful falafels with your favorite dips or toppings!

Air Fryer Falafel