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Air Fryer Falafel Recipe

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4.3 from 38 reviews

This Air Fryer Falafel recipe delivers crispy, golden falafel balls using a healthy air frying method. Made from soaked dried chickpeas blended with fresh herbs and warm spices, these falafels are gluten-free, packed with protein, and perfect as a snack or part of a meal. The air fryer method provides a deliciously crunchy exterior without deep frying in oil, making this a healthier alternative to traditional falafel recipes.

  • Total Time: 12 hours 31 minutes
  • Yield: 16 falafel balls

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 14 ounces dried chickpeas (400g), soaked overnight
  • 1 small onion, roughly chopped (100g)
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, packed (30g)
  • 1/4 cup fresh coriander (cilantro), packed (20g)
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons cumin
  • 1 teaspoon dried coriander
  • 1/2 teaspoon cardamom
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil, for brushing

Instructions

  1. Prepare the chickpeas: Drain the soaked chickpeas well and pat them dry thoroughly to remove excess moisture.
  2. Make the falafel mixture: In a food processor, combine the dried chickpeas, chopped onion, minced garlic, fresh parsley, fresh coriander, cumin, dried coriander, cardamom, baking soda, and salt. Pulse until the mixture resembles coarse, slightly grainy breadcrumbs, ensuring not to over-blend into a paste.
  3. Rest the mixture: Transfer the mixture to a bowl and refrigerate uncovered for at least 30 minutes to help it firm up, which aids in shaping.
  4. Shape the falafel: Scoop and form the mixture into 16 balls or patties, each about 1 1/4 ounces. Press them firmly so they hold together well during cooking.
  5. Preheat the air fryer: Heat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3 minutes. Lightly brush or spray the basket with oil to prevent sticking.
  6. Cook the falafel: Brush each falafel generously with olive oil. Place them in a single layer inside the air fryer basket without overcrowding. Air fry for 10 minutes, then carefully flip each falafel, spray again lightly with oil, and cook for an additional 6 minutes until they are golden brown and crisp all over.
  7. Serve: Remove the falafel from the air fryer and serve immediately while hot and crunchy.

Notes

  • Soak chickpeas overnight or for at least 12 hours to achieve the right texture for falafel.
  • Do not over-process the chickpea mixture; it should be coarse to ensure the falafel holds together and has a nice texture.
  • Refrigerating the mixture before shaping helps it firm up for better handling and cooking.
  • Brush or spray oil on falafel before air frying to get a crispy exterior similar to frying but with less oil.
  • This recipe makes approximately 16 falafel balls, perfect for serving 4-6 people as part of a meal or party platter.
  • Author: Madelynn
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus 12 hours soaking time)
  • Cook Time: 16 minutes
  • Category: Snack
  • Method: Air Frying
  • Cuisine: Middle Eastern
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Find it online: https://allyumcooks.com/air-fryer-falafel-recipe/