Air Fryer Falafel Recipe: A Delicious Middle Eastern Treat

Falafel is a beloved Middle Eastern dish made from chickpeas or fava beans, blended with herbs and spices, and fried to perfection. 

Traditionally deep-fried, this crispy treat can be made healthier using an air fryer while still delivering the same crunch and flavor. In this article, we'll explore an easy, authentic, and delicious Air Fryer Falafel recipe, along with answers to frequently asked questions about this dish.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Healthier Alternative – Enjoy falafel with less oil and fewer calories.

• Crispy Perfection – The air fryer gives the falafel a crunchy exterior while keeping the inside soft and flavorful.

• Easy and Convenient – No need for deep frying or dealing with excess oil.

• Vegan and Gluten-Free – A perfect plant-based protein-rich meal option.

Ingredients

Falafel Mixture:

• 1 ½ cups dried chickpeas (soaked overnight)

• ½ cup fresh parsley, chopped

• ½ cup fresh cilantro, chopped

• ¼ cup fresh dill, chopped (optional)

• 1 small onion, chopped

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 teaspoon ground cumin

• 1 teaspoon ground coriander

• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for spice)

• 1 teaspoon baking powder

• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (or chickpea flour for a gluten-free option)

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

• 2 tablespoons olive oil (for brushing)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chickpeas

1. Rinse the dried chickpeas and soak them in water overnight (at least 12 hours). Drain and pat them dry. Do not use canned chickpeas, as they contain too much moisture.

Step 2: Blend the Ingredients

2. In a food processor, combine the soaked chickpeas, parsley, cilantro, dill, onion, garlic, cumin, coriander, cayenne pepper, baking powder, flour, salt, and lemon juice.

3. Pulse the mixture until it reaches a coarse consistency. Do not overblend; the mixture should still have some texture.

Step 3: Form the Falafel

4. Transfer the mixture to a bowl, cover, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld and firm up the dough.

5. Using a spoon or small scoop, form the mixture into small balls or patties.

Step 4: Air Fry the Falafel

6. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).

7. Lightly grease the air fryer basket with olive oil to prevent sticking.

8. Arrange the falafel in a single layer, ensuring they are not touching.

9. Brush the falafel lightly with olive oil for extra crispiness.

10. Air fry for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

11. Remove the falafel from the air fryer and serve immediately with hummus, tahini sauce, or inside pita bread with fresh vegetables.

Tips for the Best Air Fryer Falafel

• Use dried chickpeas – Canned chickpeas will result in a wet and crumbly falafel.

• Don’t overprocess the mixture – It should be grainy, not smooth, to maintain texture.

• Chill the mixture – Refrigerating the mixture before shaping helps the falafel hold together better.

• Avoid overcrowding – Cook in batches if necessary to allow even air circulation in the fryer.

FAQs About Air Fryer Falafel

1. Can I make falafel without an air fryer?

Yes! You can either deep-fry them in hot oil until golden brown or bake them at 400°F (200°C) for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway.

2. Can I use canned chickpeas instead of dried?

It's not recommended, as canned chickpeas contain too much moisture, leading to mushy falafel. If you must use them, add extra flour to help bind the mixture.

3. How do I store leftover falafel?

Store cooked falafel in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can also freeze uncooked falafel for up to 3 months.

4. How do I reheat falafel?

Reheat falafel in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5 minutes to restore crispiness.

5. What can I serve with falafel?

Falafel pairs well with pita bread, hummus, tahini sauce, tzatziki, fresh salads, and pickled vegetables.

Final Thoughts

Air Fryer Falafel is a fantastic way to enjoy this delicious Middle Eastern classic in a healthier, mess-free way. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe is easy to follow and guarantees crispy, flavorful falafel every time. Try it today and enjoy a nutritious, plant-based meal that’s bursting with flavor!