Description
Air Fryer Falafel is a healthier twist on the traditional deep-fried falafel, offering a crispy exterior and tender, flavorful interior with significantly less oil. Made with chickpeas, fresh herbs, and Middle Eastern spices, these homemade falafels are packed with flavor.
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
Instructions
- Prepare the Falafel Mixture:
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. - 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. - Chill the mixture:
Transfer the falafel mixture to a bowl, cover, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. - Shape the Falafel:
Once the mixture has chilled, scoop about 1 tablespoon of the mixture and roll it into a ball or small patty. Repeat with the remaining mixture. - Cook the Falafel:
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes. Lightly spray or brush the air fryer basket with olive oil. Place the falafel balls in the basket, leaving space between each one. Brush or spray the tops of the falafel with olive oil. - Air fry the falafel:
Air fry the falafel at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy. - Serve:
Once done, remove the falafel from the air fryer and let them cool slightly. Serve with pita, hummus, tahini, or a fresh salad.
Notes
For a spicier version, add cayenne pepper or chili flakes.For extra flavor, add finely chopped spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers to the mixture.If you don’t have an air fryer, bake them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 falafel ball
- Calories: 50
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 3g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
