Air Fryer Falafel

$- 1 cup dried chickpeas (soaked overnight) - 1 small onion, roughly chopped - 2-3 cloves garlic, minced - 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped - 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped - 1 teaspoon ground cumin - 1 teaspoon ground coriander - 1/2 teaspoon baking powder - 1 teaspoon salt - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper - 2 tablespoons tahini - 2 tablespoons olive oil (plus extra for frying) - Juice of 1 lemon These ingredients create the base for your falafel. Soaking the chickpeas overnight is key. It helps them soften and blend well. - Extra chopped herbs for garnish - Alternative binders like flour or breadcrumbs You can add more herbs for a fresh taste. If you want to adjust the texture, try using different binders. - Food processor - Air fryer - Measuring cups and spoons Using a food processor makes mixing easy. An air fryer gives you that crispiness without much oil. Measuring cups and spoons ensure you get the right amounts every time. For the full recipe, check out the detailed steps to make your air fryer falafel. - First, soak 1 cup of dried chickpeas overnight. This helps soften them and makes them blend better. - After soaking, drain and rinse the chickpeas under cold water. This step is key for a clean taste. - Place the drained chickpeas in a food processor. Pulse them until they are coarsely ground. Be careful not to turn them into a paste. - Next, add the chopped onion, minced garlic, parsley, cilantro, cumin, coriander, baking powder, salt, black pepper, tahini, olive oil, and lemon juice. Blend until mixed well, stopping to scrape down the sides a few times. - Once mixed, transfer the falafel mixture to a bowl. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This helps the mixture firm up. - Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). This step is important for even cooking. - Form the chilled falafel mixture into small balls or patties, about 1-2 inches in size. - Lightly brush the air fryer basket with olive oil. This will help prevent sticking. Place the falafel in a single layer, ensuring they are not overcrowded. - Spray or brush the tops of the falafel lightly with olive oil for a nice crisp. - Air fry for 12-15 minutes, flipping them halfway through. They should be golden brown and crispy. - Remove the falafel from the air fryer and serve right away with tahini sauce, pita bread, or in a salad. For the full recipe, check out the ingredients and instructions above. To make your falafel crispy, avoid sogginess by not over-blending. When you blend the chickpeas, stop when they are coarsely ground. This keeps them from becoming a paste. Also, apply oil carefully. Use just enough olive oil to cover the falafel lightly. This helps them crisp up in the air fryer without being greasy. Add more spice for richer taste. Consider using smoked paprika or cayenne pepper for heat. You can also add a pinch of cinnamon for a unique twist. Serve your falafel with tahini sauce, yogurt, or a fresh salad. A squeeze of lemon adds a bright touch, too. Avoid over-blending the falafel mixture. If it turns too smooth, it won’t hold together. Chill your mixture for at least 30 minutes. This helps the falafel firm up, making it easier to shape. Chilling also ensures they stay intact while cooking in the air fryer. For the full recipe, check the instructions above. {{image_2}} You can use canned chickpeas instead of dried ones. Just rinse and drain them well. This saves time and still gives good flavor. For a vegan option, ensure your tahini and other ingredients are plant-based. If you need a gluten-free version, check your seasonings and sauces. Most falafel recipes are already gluten-free, but it's good to double-check. Falafel works great in many dishes. You can serve it in salads or wraps. Try mixing it with fresh veggies and a tangy dressing. For wraps, add your favorite sauces and toppings. Pair falafel with tahini sauce or yogurt sauce for a tasty dip. You can also serve it with hummus or spicy harissa for extra flair. Want to spice it up? Add chopped hot peppers or a pinch of cayenne. This gives your falafel a nice kick. You can also play with herbs. Try adding dill or mint for a fresh twist. A mix of herbs and spices can make your falafel unique. Experiment with different flavors to find your favorite. For the full recipe, check out the Crispy Air Fryer Falafel. To keep uncooked falafel fresh, you must store it properly. Place the falafel mixture in an airtight container. Cover it tightly and put it in the fridge. It can stay fresh for up to 2 days. If you want to keep it longer, freezing is a great option. Form the falafel into balls or patties first. Then, lay them on a baking sheet and freeze until firm. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag. They can last for about 3 months in the freezer. Cooked falafel is best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftovers. Place them in an airtight container and refrigerate. They will stay fresh for about 4 days. To keep falafel crispy, avoid stacking them. When you are ready to eat, reheat them. Use an air fryer or oven for the best results. Set your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 5 minutes. This method keeps the falafel crispy and tasty. How long does falafel last in the refrigerator? Cooked falafel can last up to 4 days. If you see mold or notice a strange smell, discard it. Signs that falafel has gone bad include a slimy texture or off-color. Always check before eating leftovers. Keeping track of freshness is key to enjoying this crisp and flavorful delight. For a great falafel recipe, check out the Full Recipe. To make air fryer falafel crispy, you need to use the right amount of oil. Lightly brush or spray the falafel with olive oil before cooking. This helps the outside get that golden, crunchy texture. Also, avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket. Give each piece space to cook evenly. Cooking at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes works well. Flip them halfway for even browning. Yes, you can use canned chickpeas, but I recommend using dried ones for the best flavor and texture. If you use canned, rinse and drain them well. You will not need to soak them. Just blend them with the other ingredients until combined. Keep in mind that canned chickpeas may create a softer falafel. Air fryer falafel tastes great with several sauces. Tahini sauce is a classic choice. You can also try garlic sauce or yogurt sauce for a creamy touch. Hot sauce adds a spicy kick. Serve falafel in a pita with your favorite sauce and fresh veggies for a tasty meal. Your falafel is done cooking when it is golden brown and crispy on the outside. The inside should feel firm but not dry. You can check one by cutting it open. It should be warm and fluffy inside. If they look too pale, give them a few extra minutes. Yes, you can freeze cooked falafel. Let them cool completely before freezing. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer the falafel to a freezer-safe bag. They can last in the freezer for up to three months. To reheat, bake them in the oven or air fryer until heated through. You now have all the tools to make great air fryer falafel. We explored the ingredients, from dried chickpeas to fresh herbs. I also shared tips for the perfect texture and flavor. Remember, you can switch ingredients to fit your taste. Finally, proper storage keeps your falafel fresh for longer. Enjoy your delicious and healthy creation! Making falafel is fun and rewarding, so get started today!$

Looking for a delicious and healthy snack? Try making air fryer falafel! These crispy, flavorful chickpea patties are packed with spices and fresh herbs, perfect for any meal. In just a few simple steps, you can impress your friends and family with this delightful dish. Ready to crunch into this crispy delight?

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Ingredients

1 cup dried chickpeas (soaked overnight)

1 small onion, roughly chopped

2-3 cloves garlic, minced

1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

1 teaspoon ground cumin

1 teaspoon ground coriander

1/2 teaspoon baking powder

1 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

2 tablespoons tahini

2 tablespoons olive oil (plus extra for frying)

Juice of 1 lemon

Optional: extra chopped herbs for garnish

Instructions

Drain the soaked chickpeas and place them in a food processor. Pulse until coarsely ground, being careful not to over-blend into a paste.

Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, parsley, cilantro, cumin, coriander, baking powder, salt, black pepper, tahini, olive oil, and lemon juice to the food processor. Blend until well combined, stopping to scrape down the sides as necessary.

Once mixed, transfer the falafel mixture to a bowl. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to help it firm up.

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

Form the chilled falafel mixture into small balls or patties (about 1-2 inches in diameter).

Lightly brush the air fryer basket with a little olive oil to prevent sticking. Place the falafel in the basket in a single layer, making sure they are not overcrowded.

Spray or brush the tops of the falafel lightly with olive oil.

Air fry for 12-15 minutes, flipping them halfway through, until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside.

Remove falafel from the air fryer and serve immediately with tahini sauce, pita bread, or in a salad.

Prep Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour | Servings: 4