Air Fryer Falafel Recipe

Crispy on the outside, tender and herb-packed inside, this Air Fryer Falafel Recipe is a healthy twist on the Middle Eastern classic. Made with chickpeas, fresh herbs, garlic, and warm spices, these golden bites are air-fried instead of deep-fried—delivering all the crunch without the grease. Perfect for wraps, bowls, salads, or snacking straight off the tray!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Crispy Without the Oil – All the flavor and crunch of fried falafel with less fat.
Packed with Protein & Fiber – Made from wholesome chickpeas.
Vibrant Flavor – Fresh herbs and bold spices make these anything but bland.
Freezer Friendly – Make a big batch and reheat for quick meals.
Vegan & Gluten-Free – Naturally plant-based and adaptable for dietary needs.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 ½ cups dried chickpeas (soaked overnight) – do not use canned
• ½ medium onion, roughly chopped
• 3 cloves garlic
• 1 cup fresh parsley, packed
• ½ cup fresh cilantro, packed
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp coriander
• ½ tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 2–3 tbsp flour (chickpea or all-purpose, as needed)
• Olive oil spray for air frying

Optional Garnishes & Serving Ideas:

• Tahini sauce or garlic yogurt sauce
• Pita bread or lettuce wraps
• Sliced cucumbers, tomatoes, pickled onions
• Hummus, tzatziki, or hot sauce

Tools You’ll Need

• Food processor
• Air fryer
• Mixing bowl
• Cookie scoop or spoon
• Parchment paper (optional for easier handling)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Soak the Chickpeas

1. Place dried chickpeas in a large bowl and cover with several inches of water.
2. Soak overnight (8–12 hours). Drain and rinse well before using.

Step 2: Make the Falafel Mixture

1. In a food processor, combine soaked chickpeas, onion, garlic, parsley, cilantro, cumin, coriander, salt, pepper, and baking powder.
2. Pulse until the mixture is finely ground and holds together when pressed—scrape down sides as needed.
3. Add flour, 1 tablespoon at a time, just until the mixture sticks together easily.
4. Transfer to a bowl, cover, and chill in the fridge for 30–60 minutes for best results.

Step 3: Form the Falafel Balls

1. Use a cookie scoop or spoon to form the mixture into small balls or patties, about 1 to 1 ½ inches wide.
2. Place on a tray lined with parchment or wax paper.

Step 4: Air Fry the Falafel

1. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. Lightly spray the basket with olive oil spray.
3. Place falafel balls in the basket in a single layer, leaving space between each one.
4. Spray the tops of the falafel with a light coating of oil.
5. Air fry for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden brown and crisp.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

1. Serve hot in pita bread, lettuce wraps, or salad bowls.
2. Add fresh veggies and drizzle with tahini or yogurt sauce.

Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Falafel
Don’t Use Canned Chickpeas – They’re too soft and will fall apart.
Soak Overnight – Essential for the right texture and flavor.
Chill the Mixture – Helps bind and shape the falafel better.
Don’t Overfill the Air Fryer – Cook in batches for even crisping.
Adjust Seasonings – Taste the mixture before shaping and tweak the herbs and salt.

Serving Suggestions
In Pita Wraps – With lettuce, tomatoes, cucumber, and sauce.
Falafel Bowls – Over rice or quinoa with roasted veggies.
Appetizer Platter – Pair with hummus, olives, and flatbread.
Lettuce Wraps – A fresh, low-carb alternative.
With Tzatziki or Tahini – Add a creamy, cooling finish.

How to Store & Reheat

Storing:

• Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freeze: Place uncooked falafel on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer to a freezer bag.

Reheating:

• Air Fryer: 350°F for 5–6 minutes until heated through.
• Oven: 375°F for 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Not recommended—falafel loses its crispness.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I bake falafel instead of air frying?
Yes! Bake at 400°F for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway.

2. What flour works best?
Chickpea flour keeps it gluten-free and authentic, but all-purpose or oat flour also work.

3. Why not use canned chickpeas?
They’re too soft and result in mushy falafel. Soaked dried chickpeas provide the right texture.

4. Can I freeze cooked falafel?
Yes—cool completely and freeze in a single layer. Reheat in air fryer or oven.

5. How do I keep falafel from falling apart?
Make sure the mixture is not too wet, chill it before shaping, and don’t skip the flour.

Final Thoughts
This Air Fryer Falafel is a crispy, wholesome, and satisfying plant-based dish that’s easy to love. Whether tucked into a pita, tossed in a salad, or served as a snack, it’s a versatile recipe that delivers flavor and texture without deep-frying. Healthy, delicious, and simple—what more could you ask for?

Try it out and let me know what you think! Don’t forget to leave a review below and share your photos on Pinterest! I can’t wait to see your air fryer falafel creations.
Preparation Time: 20 minutes (plus soaking)
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Cuisine: Middle Eastern

Nutritional Information (Per Serving – 4 Falafel):
Calories: 280 | Protein: 10g | Carbohydrates: 28g | Fat: 14g | Fiber: 7g | Sodium: 350mg

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