Experience the magic of air frying with this innovative take on classic falafel. This recipe harnesses the air fryer’s power to deliver perfectly crisp falafel on the outside, while maintaining a light and flavorful interior.
Enjoy these healthy and protein-packed bites on their own, or nestled in warm pita bread with your favorite toppings. Get ready to revolutionize your falafel game with this air fryer method!
Ingredients
- 1 (15.5 ounce) can chickpeas, rinsed and drained
- 1 small onion, quartered
- 3 cloves garlic, roughly chopped
- 1/3 cup roughly chopped parsley
- 1/3 cup roughly chopped cilantro
- 1/3 cup chopped scallions
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/8 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
- Olive oil spray
Instructions
1. Process the herbs and spices:
In a food processor, add parsley, scallions, cilantro, cumin, salt, and red pepper flakes (if using). Pulse for 30 to 60 seconds, until finely chopped.
2. Add chickpeas and pulse:
Add the chickpeas and garlic to the food processor. Pulse 2 to 3 times until just combined, but not pureed. You want the falafel to have some texture.
3. Incorporate flour and baking powder:
Sprinkle in the baking powder and flour. Scrape down the sides of the bowl with a spatula and pulse 2 to 3 times, just until incorporated.
4. Rest the mixture:
Transfer the falafel mixture to a bowl, cover it, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or up to overnight. Chilling helps the falafel firm up and hold its shape better.
5. Form the falafel:
Lightly flour your hands and work surface. Take about 2 tablespoons of the falafel mixture and roll it into a ball. Gently flatten the ball slightly into a disc. Repeat with the remaining mixture. You should get around 12 falafel.
6. Prepare the air fryer:
Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Lightly spray the basket with olive oil.
7. Air fry the falafel:
Arrange the falafel in a single layer in the air fryer basket, leaving space between them for air circulation. (You might need to cook in batches depending on the size of your air fryer). Lightly spray the tops of the falafel with olive oil.
8. Cook and flip:
Air fry the falafel for 12-14 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy on the outside. Flip the falafel halfway through cooking.
9. Serve and enjoy!
Serve your air-fried falafel hot with your favorite toppings like tahini sauce, pita bread, chopped vegetables, and hummus.
Tips
- For a fluffier falafel, add an extra 1/4 teaspoon of baking powder.
- Don’t over-process the falafel mixture. You want it to be coarse and hold its shape.
- If the mixture feels too wet, add a little more flour, one tablespoon at a time, until it’s manageable.
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket. This will prevent the falafel from crisping up properly.
- Cooking time may vary depending on your air fryer model and the size of your falafel.
Enjoy your delicious homemade air fryer falafel!