Go Back
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, thoroughly drained and rinsed - 1 small onion, roughly chopped - 2 cloves of garlic, finely minced - 1 cup fresh parsley leaves, tightly packed - 1 teaspoon ground cumin - 1 teaspoon ground coriander - 1/2 teaspoon baking powder - 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice - Salt and pepper, to taste - 2 tablespoons olive oil (plus extra for drizzling) - 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for extra crunch) To make crispy air fryer falafel, you need simple and fresh ingredients. Chickpeas form the base of the falafel. They add protein and fiber. Onions and garlic give it a nice flavor. Fresh parsley adds a bright taste. Spices like cumin and coriander bring warmth. Baking powder helps the falafel to puff up a bit. Lemon juice adds a zesty kick and balances the flavors. You can add olive oil for richness. If you want extra crunch, breadcrumbs work great too. They give a nice texture to each bite. Gathering these ingredients will lead you to a delicious meal. They combine to create a dish that is both simple and satisfying. 1. Start by adding the chickpeas, onion, garlic, and parsley to a food processor. 2. Pulse until the mix is coarse. Don’t overprocess; you want some texture. 3. Next, add the spices: cumin, coriander, baking powder, salt, and pepper. 4. Pour in the lemon juice and olive oil. Pulse again until mixed but still chunky. 5. If you want extra crunch, fold in the breadcrumbs gently. 1. Move the mixture to a bowl and cover it with plastic wrap. 2. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This helps the flavors blend and firms up the mix. 3. After chilling, scoop about 2 tablespoons of the mix and shape it into small patties or balls. 1. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). This step helps get that crispy outside. 2. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray or drizzle some olive oil. 3. Place the shaped falafel in the basket without overlapping. This ensures even cooking. 4. Drizzle a bit more olive oil on top of the falafel for extra crispiness. 5. Cook for 12-15 minutes, flipping them halfway through. They should be golden brown and crispy. 6. Once done, remove them from the air fryer and let them cool slightly before serving. To get your falafel crispy, start by preheating your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). This step is key for a golden brown outside. If you skip this, your falafel may turn out soggy. Next, use cooking spray or a little olive oil. Lightly spray the air fryer basket to stop sticking. This helps the falafel crisp up nicely. A drizzle of olive oil on top also enhances that crunch. To boost flavor, add spices like cumin and coriander. These spices give depth and warmth to your falafel. Fresh herbs like parsley are also a must for brightness. For a tasty drizzle, tahini sauce works wonders. It adds creaminess and a nutty flavor that pairs well with falafel. You can make a simple tahini drizzle by mixing tahini, lemon juice, and water until smooth. This elevates your dish and makes it even more delicious. {{image_4}} You can change up the falafel by adding fun ingredients. Try adding beets or sweet potatoes to the mix. This adds color and a hint of sweetness. Beets make a pretty pink falafel that is sure to impress. Sweet potatoes give a nice creamy texture and earthy flavor. You can also incorporate different vegetables like carrots or zucchini. Just chop them finely before mixing. This will add more nutrients and flavor. Each veggie brings its unique taste, making your falafel even more special. Falafel is super versatile when it comes to serving. You can wrap them in warm pitas or use them in salad bowls. Fill your wrap with fresh veggies like cucumbers, tomatoes, and lettuce. Add a drizzle of tahini sauce for a creamy finish. Don’t forget about dipping sauces! Serve falafel with hummus or tzatziki for added flavor. Garnishes like fresh herbs can brighten up the dish. You can sprinkle some parsley or cilantro on top for a lovely touch. These simple ideas can take your crispy air fryer falafel from good to great. To keep your crispy air fryer falafel fresh, you can use two main methods: refrigeration and freezing. - Refrigeration: Place leftover falafel in an airtight container. They will stay good for about 3-4 days in the fridge. - Freezing tips: For longer storage, you can freeze falafel. Arrange them on a baking sheet and freeze until firm. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag. They will last up to 3 months. Remember to label the bag with the date! When you want to enjoy leftover falafel, reheating them properly is key to keeping them crispy. - In the air fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the falafel in the basket. Heat for about 5-7 minutes, flipping halfway through. This gives them a nice crunch. - In the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread falafel on a baking sheet and bake for about 10 minutes, turning them halfway. This also helps restore their crispy texture. Enjoy your falafel warm, and savor every bite! You can make falafel without a food processor by using a fork or a potato masher. First, mash the drained chickpeas in a bowl. Then, add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and parsley. Mix everything well. Use a fork to combine the spices, baking powder, lemon juice, and olive oil. Ensure the mixture is thick enough to hold its shape. You may need to mash it more to get a better texture. Yes, you can bake falafel in the oven! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Shape the falafel into patties or balls and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle a little olive oil on top for crispiness. Bake for about 20 to 25 minutes, flipping halfway through. This method gives you a healthier option, but the air fryer does yield a crunchier texture. Falafel pairs well with many side dishes. Here are a few great options: - Hummus: Creamy and tangy, it complements falafel well. - Tzatziki: A refreshing yogurt dip with cucumber and dill. - Tabouli: A salad made with parsley, tomatoes, and bulgur wheat. - Pita Bread: Perfect for wrapping falafel with veggies. - Cucumber Salad: A light, crunchy side to balance the flavors. These sides make your meal colorful and tasty! This blog post covered how to make delicious falafel from scratch. We explored main ingredients like chickpeas and spices. I walked you through step-by-step instructions for preparing and cooking falafel in an air fryer. Tips about achieving crispiness and flavor enhancements were also shared. Experiment with different veggie options and serve your falafel in wraps or salads. Store extras properly and enjoy them later. Cooking can be fun and rewarding. I hope you try making falafel soon! It’s healthier and tastier than many take-out options.

Crispy Air Fryer Falafel

Discover the delightful world of Crispy Air Fryer Falafel! This easy recipe features simple ingredients like chickpeas, fresh herbs, and spices, creating mouthwatering falafel that’s perfect for wraps or salads. With a golden, crunchy exterior and a flavorful interior, you’ll love how quickly these cook in the air fryer. Ready to elevate your meals? Click through to get the full recipe and bring this delicious dish to your table!
Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients
  

1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, thoroughly drained and rinsed

1 small onion, roughly chopped

2 cloves of garlic, finely minced

1 cup fresh parsley leaves, tightly packed

1 teaspoon ground cumin

1 teaspoon ground coriander

1/2 teaspoon baking powder

1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

Salt and pepper, to taste

2 tablespoons olive oil (plus extra for drizzling)

1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for extra crunch)

Instructions
 

Begin by adding the drained and rinsed chickpeas, chopped onion, minced garlic, and fresh parsley to a food processor. Pulse the ingredients together until you achieve a coarse mixture, ensuring not to overprocess for the best texture.

    Next, incorporate the ground cumin, ground coriander, baking powder, fresh lemon juice, a pinch of salt, a dash of pepper, and the olive oil. Pulse again until all ingredients are well combined, yet retain a slightly chunky consistency.

      If you prefer additional crunch, gently fold in the breadcrumbs until evenly distributed throughout the mixture.

        Transfer the falafel mixture to a mixing bowl, cover it with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for a minimum of 30 minutes. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld beautifully and the mixture to firm up for easier shaping.

          Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). This step is vital for achieving that crispy exterior!

            Once preheated, take about 2 tablespoons of the falafel mixture and shape it into small patties or balls using your hands.

              Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray or drizzle with a little olive oil to prevent sticking. Arrange the shaped falafel in the basket without any overlap to ensure even cooking.

                For an added layer of crispiness, lightly drizzle the tops of the falafel with a bit more olive oil.

                  Cook the falafel in the air fryer for 12-15 minutes, carefully flipping them halfway through the cooking time, until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside.

                    Once cooked, remove the falafel from the air fryer and allow them to cool slightly before serving to enhance the flavors.

                      Prep Time: 30 min | Total Time: 1 hr | Servings: 4-6

                        - Presentation Tips: Serve these delightful crispy falafel in a warm wrap or pita, stuffed with fresh vegetables like cucumbers and tomatoes. Drizzle tahini sauce over the top, and sprinkle with sumac for an extra burst of flavor. Garnish with fresh herbs like cilantro or additional parsley for a vibrant and appetizing presentation!