Air Fryer Falafel Recipe for a Healthy Vegan Meal

Air Fryer Falafel is a beloved Middle Eastern street food made from ground chickpeas, herbs, and spices. Traditionally deep-fried, falafel is crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, offering a satisfying blend of flavors. However, using an air fryer provides a healthier alternative, reducing the amount of oil while still delivering that signature crispy texture. Whether you’re looking for a delicious vegetarian meal or a healthy snack, these air fryer falafels are perfect for dipping in sauces or stuffing in pita bread with fresh veggies.

About Air Fryer Falafel

Making falafel from scratch is easier than you think, especially when you use simple pantry ingredients like chickpeas, garlic, cumin, and cilantro. The air fryer makes it possible to enjoy the crispiness of deep-fried falafel without the extra calories from oil. Serve these falafels with your favorite accompaniments like hummus, tahini sauce, or even a zesty yogurt dip.

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ cups dried chickpeas, soaked overnight
• ½ cup fresh parsley, chopped
• ½ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp coriander
• ½ tsp baking powder
• ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tbsp olive oil (optional for greasing)
• Cooking spray for air fryer

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Instructions:

• Prepare the falafel mixture: Drain and rinse the soaked chickpeas.
  In a food processor, combine the chickpeas, parsley, cilantro, onion, garlic, cumin, coriander, cayenne pepper (if using), and salt and pepper.
  Pulse until the mixture is combined but still slightly chunky. Be careful not to over-process; the mixture should have some texture.
  Stir in the baking powder. Refrigerate the mixture for 30 minutes to firm up.
• Form the falafel balls: Using a tablespoon or small cookie scoop, shape the mixture into small balls or patties, about 1 ½ inches in diameter.
• Air fry the falafel: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
  Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray or brush with olive oil.
  Place the falafel balls in the basket in a single layer, leaving space between them.
  Lightly spray the falafel with cooking spray to help them crisp up.
  Air fry for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
• Serve: Serve the falafel warm with your favorite sauces and sides.

Ideas For Serving:

• Falafel Wraps: Stuff falafels in warm pita bread with lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, and a drizzle of tahini sauce or tzatziki.
• Salad Toppers: Use falafels as a protein-packed topping for Mediterranean-inspired salads with greens, feta cheese, olives, and a lemon vinaigrette.
• Dip and Snack: Serve falafel with hummus, baba ganoush, or yogurt sauce as a tasty and healthy snack or appetizer.

Nutritional Information (per serving):

• Calories: 100 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Protein: 5g
• Fat: 3g
• Fiber: 5g
• Sodium: 120mg

History:

Falafel is a dish with ancient roots, originating from the Middle East, particularly in Egypt, where it is believed to have been first made from fava beans. Today, chickpeas are commonly used in falafel recipes, particularly in countries like Israel, Lebanon, and Jordan. It’s often served as street food and has become a global favorite due to its hearty texture and savory flavor. Falafel plays a significant role in the culinary traditions of many cultures and is a popular vegetarian option around the world.

FAQs:

Can I use canned chickpeas?

• It’s recommended to use dried chickpeas for the best texture. Canned chickpeas may result in a mushy falafel that doesn’t hold its shape as well.

Can I freeze the falafel?

• Yes! You can freeze the uncooked falafel balls for up to 3 months. When ready to cook, simply air fry them from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

How do I keep falafel from falling apart?

• Make sure the falafel mixture isn’t too wet. If it seems too moist, you can add a tablespoon of flour or breadcrumbs to help bind it together.

What dipping sauces go well with falafel?

• Tahini sauce, yogurt dip, hummus, and even spicy harissa or garlic aioli are great dipping sauces for falafel.