How to Air Fry Falafel: Tips & Tricks for Best Results

Falafel, those delightful little balls of spiced chickpeas, are a culinary staple enjoyed worldwide. Traditionally deep-fried, they can sometimes feel like a guilty pleasure. But what if there was a way to enjoy the same crispy exterior and flavorful interior without all the extra oil? Enter the air fryer! This blog post will guide you through the simple steps of making air fryer falafel, offering a healthier and equally delicious alternative to the traditional method. Get ready to revolutionize your falafel game!

Why Air Fry Falafel?

The air fryer has quickly become a beloved kitchen appliance, and for good reason. It offers a fantastic way to achieve that desirable crispy texture without submerging food in oil. When it comes to falafel, this means a lighter, healthier version that doesn’t compromise on taste. Air frying falafel results in a beautifully browned crust and a tender, flavorful center, all while using significantly less oil than deep-frying. Plus, the air fryer is incredibly convenient and easy to clean!

Ingredients Needed

Before diving into the process, let’s gather the necessary ingredients. The beauty of falafel is that it’s made with simple, readily available items:

• Dried Chickpeas: 1 cup (soaked overnight) – This is crucial! Canned chickpeas don’t work as well and often result in a mushy falafel.
• Fresh Herbs: 1/2 cup packed parsley and 1/4 cup packed cilantro – Fresh herbs are essential for that vibrant falafel flavor.
• Onion: 1/2 medium onion, roughly chopped – Adds a savory depth to the mixture.
• Garlic: 2-3 cloves, minced – Because everything is better with garlic!
• Spices: 1 teaspoon ground cumin, 1 teaspoon ground coriander, 1/2 teaspoon paprika, 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional) – These spices create the signature falafel flavor profile. Adjust cayenne to your liking.
• Flour: 2-3 tablespoons (all-purpose or chickpea flour) – Helps bind the mixture. Start with less and add more if needed.
• Baking Powder: 1/2 teaspoon – Contributes to a lighter, less dense falafel.
• Salt and Pepper: To taste – Season generously!
• Olive Oil: 1-2 tablespoons – For lightly coating the falafel before air frying.

Making the Falafel Mixture

Now for the fun part! This process is straightforward, and the results are well worth the effort.

1. Drain and Rinse the Chickpeas: After soaking the chickpeas overnight, drain them thoroughly and rinse them under cold water. It’s important to ensure they are well-drained to prevent a soggy mixture.
2. Combine Ingredients: In a food processor, combine the soaked chickpeas, parsley, cilantro, onion, garlic, cumin, coriander, paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper.
3. Process Until Coarsely Ground: Pulse the mixture until it’s coarsely ground. You want some texture, not a completely smooth paste. Over-processing can lead to a dense falafel.
4. Add Flour and Baking Powder: Add the flour and baking powder to the food processor and pulse a few more times until just combined.
5. Check Consistency: The mixture should be able to hold its shape when pressed together. If it’s too wet, add a little more flour, one tablespoon at a time.
6. Refrigerate (Optional): For best results, refrigerate the falafel mixture for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld and the mixture to firm up, making it easier to form the falafel.

Forming the Falafel

With the mixture ready, it’s time to shape those little chickpea wonders.

1. Scoop and Shape: Use a small cookie scoop or spoon to portion out the falafel mixture. Roll each portion into a ball or flatten it slightly into a patty shape.
2. Lightly Coat with Oil: Place the formed falafel on a plate and lightly brush or spray them with olive oil. This will help them crisp up beautifully in the air fryer.

Air Frying Instructions

The moment we’ve been waiting for!

1. Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for a few minutes. This ensures even cooking and a crispy exterior.
2. Arrange Falafel in the Air Fryer Basket: Place the falafel in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure they are not overcrowded. Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking and a less crispy result. You may need to cook in batches.
3. Air Fry: Air fry for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
4. Check for Doneness: The falafel should be firm to the touch and golden brown on all sides. If they need more time, continue air frying for a few more minutes, checking frequently.

Serving Suggestions

Now that you have perfectly air-fried falafel, it’s time to enjoy them!

• In a Pita: The classic way! Stuff warm pita bread with falafel, hummus, tahini sauce, chopped vegetables (like tomatoes, cucumbers, and lettuce), and pickles.
• As a Salad Topping: Add falafel to your favorite salad for a protein-packed and flavorful boost.
• On a Mezze Platter: Include falafel on a mezze platter with other Middle Eastern favorites like hummus, baba ghanoush, olives, and pita bread.
• With Dips: Serve falafel with a variety of dipping sauces, such as tahini sauce, tzatziki, or a spicy yogurt dip.
• On Their Own: Sometimes, the best way to enjoy falafel is simply on their own, as a delicious and satisfying snack.

Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Falafel

• Don’t Over-Process: Avoid over-processing the chickpea mixture, as this can result in a dense falafel.
• Refrigerate the Mixture: Refrigerating the mixture for at least 30 minutes helps the flavors meld and the falafel hold its shape better.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Air Fryer: Cook the falafel in batches to ensure even cooking and maximum crispiness.
• Adjust Cooking Time: Air fryers can vary, so adjust the cooking time as needed to achieve the desired level of crispiness.
• Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs are essential for that vibrant falafel flavor. Don’t skimp on the parsley and cilantro!

A Delicious Journey’s End

And there you have it! Air fryer falafel that’s crispy, healthy, and bursting with flavor. This method offers a fantastic alternative to deep-frying, allowing you to enjoy this classic dish without the extra oil. Experiment with different spices and toppings to create your own unique falafel masterpiece. The joy of cooking lies in the freedom to explore and create, and this recipe provides the perfect canvas for your culinary adventures. So go ahead, embark on this delicious journey, and savor the delightful taste of homemade air fryer falafel!

Answers to Your Most Common Questions

Q: Can I use canned chickpeas instead of dried?

A: While technically possible, it’s not recommended. Canned chickpeas tend to be too soft and moist, resulting in a mushy falafel that doesn’t hold its shape well. Soaked dried chickpeas are the key to a good falafel texture.

Q: How do I store leftover falafel?

A: Leftover falafel can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can air fry them again for a few minutes until heated through and crispy, or microwave them (although they won’t be as crispy).

Q: Can I freeze the falafel mixture or cooked falafel?

A: Yes, you can freeze both the falafel mixture and cooked falafel. To freeze the mixture, portion it into balls or patties and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag or container. To freeze cooked falafel, let them cool completely before placing them in a freezer bag or container. When ready to use, thaw the mixture or cooked falafel in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature, and then air fry until heated through and crispy.