Easy, Crispy Air Fryer Falafel

Discover how to make perfectly crispy and flavorful falafel with this easy air fryer recipe. These air fryer falafel are made with chickpeas, fresh herbs like parsley, cilantro, and dill, and seasoned with garlic and onion for a deliciously savory taste. With the air fryer, you’ll enjoy a healthier version of traditional falafel, crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, without the added oil. This plant-based, vegan-friendly recipe is perfect for meal prep, snacks, or a Mediterranean-inspired meal. Serve with pita, salads, or your favorite dipping sauces for a satisfying meal!

Ingredients

• 2 cans (15 ounces each) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• ½ cup fresh dill, chopped
• 5 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes

Instructions

1. In a food processor, combine chickpeas, parsley, cilantro, dill, garlic, onion, flour, salt, baking powder, and red pepper flakes. Pulse until the ingredients are finely chopped but not puréed.
2. Transfer the mixture to a bowl and refrigerate for 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld and the mixture to firm up.
3. After 1 hour, remove the mixture from the refrigerator. Using a cookie scoop, scoop out 2-tablespoon portions and roll them between your palms to form smooth balls. Place the falafel balls on a plate or baking sheet. Repeat with the remaining mixture.
4. Preheat the air fryer to 380°F (193°C). Spray the air fryer basket generously with cooking spray.
5. Place the falafel balls in the air fryer basket, making sure not to overcrowd them. Cook in batches if necessary.
6. Air fry for 15 minutes, then carefully flip the falafel using tongs. Return the basket to the air fryer and cook for an additional 10 minutes or until the falafel are golden brown and crispy.
7. Remove the basket from the air fryer and carefully transfer the falafel to a plate. Serve as desired.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Easy, Crispy Air Fryer Falafel are a healthy and delicious alternative to traditional deep-fried falafel. Using the air fryer ensures they come out perfectly crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, without the extra oil. Packed with fresh herbs like parsley, cilantro, and dill, and bursting with garlic flavor, these falafel are a flavorful and satisfying snack or meal. They’re quick to make, requiring no frying mess, and are perfect for vegetarians, vegans, or anyone craving a lighter take on falafel.

Tips

• Chill the mixture: Be sure to refrigerate the falafel mixture for at least 1 hour. This step helps firm up the mixture, making it easier to shape into balls.
• Avoid overcrowding: Give the falafel enough space in the air fryer to allow for even cooking and crisping. Cook in batches if necessary.
• Check for crispness: Air fryer models vary, so check the falafel toward the end of the cooking time to ensure they are golden and crisp.
• Use parchment paper: If you prefer, you can use parchment paper in the air fryer basket to prevent sticking, but make sure to leave enough room for air circulation.

Variations and Substitutions

• Add spices: For a spicier version, add more crushed red pepper flakes, cumin, or coriander to the mixture.
• Flour alternatives: You can substitute the all-purpose flour with chickpea flour or gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version.
• Herb swaps: If you don’t have dill or cilantro, feel free to use other fresh herbs like mint, basil, or oregano.
• Baking option: If you don’t have an air fryer, you can bake the falafel in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway through.

FAQs

Can I make the falafel ahead of time?
Yes! You can shape the falafel balls and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before air frying. Alternatively, freeze the raw falafel balls for up to 3 months and air fry directly from frozen. Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Can I cook falafel in the oven instead of the air fryer?
Yes, you can bake the falafel on a parchment-lined baking sheet at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes, flipping them halfway through for even browning.

Why is my falafel not crispy?
If your falafel are not crispy, try increasing the cooking time by a few minutes. Additionally, make sure the falafel aren’t overcrowded in the air fryer, as this can prevent them from crisping properly.

Serving

These air fryer falafel are perfect for serving in pita pockets, over a salad, or with a side of hummus and tzatziki. You can also pair them with a warm pita, fresh veggies, and your favorite dipping sauces for a delicious and filling meal.

Suggestions

• For a complete meal: Serve falafel with tabbouleh, baba ganoush, or roasted vegetables for a Mediterranean-inspired feast.
• Wrap it up: Make a falafel wrap by adding falafel, lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, and a drizzle of tahini or garlic sauce in a wrap or pita bread.
• Snack time: Serve falafel as a snack or appetizer alongside a dipping sauce like tzatziki, hummus, or a spicy tahini sauce.