Description
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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Ingredients
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1 ½ cups dried chickpeas (soaked overnight) – do not use canned
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½ medium onion, roughly chopped
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3 cloves garlic
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1 cup fresh parsley, packed
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½ cup fresh cilantro, packed
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1 tsp cumin
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1 tsp coriander
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½ tsp baking powder
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1 tsp salt
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½ tsp black pepper
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2–3 tbsp flour (chickpea or all-purpose, as needed)
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Olive oil spray for air frying
Optional Garnishes & Serving Ideas:
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Tahini sauce or garlic yogurt sauce
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Pita bread or lettuce wraps
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Sliced cucumbers, tomatoes, pickled onions
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Hummus, tzatziki, or hot sauce
Instructions
Step 1: Soak the Chickpeas
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Place dried chickpeas in a large bowl and cover with several inches of water.
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Soak overnight (8–12 hours). Drain and rinse well before using.
Step 2: Make the Falafel Mixture
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In a food processor, combine soaked chickpeas, onion, garlic, parsley, cilantro, cumin, coriander, salt, pepper, and baking powder.
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Pulse until the mixture is finely ground and holds together when pressed—scrape down sides as needed.
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Add flour, 1 tablespoon at a time, just until the mixture sticks together easily.
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Transfer to a bowl, cover, and chill in the fridge for 30–60 minutes for best results.
Step 3: Form the Falafel Balls
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Use a cookie scoop or spoon to form the mixture into small balls or patties, about 1 to 1 ½ inches wide.
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Place on a tray lined with parchment or wax paper.
Step 4: Air Fry the Falafel
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Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
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Lightly spray the basket with olive oil spray.
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Place falafel balls in the basket in a single layer, leaving space between each one.
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Spray the tops of the falafel with a light coating of oil.
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Air fry for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden brown and crisp.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
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Serve hot in pita bread, lettuce wraps, or salad bowls.
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Add fresh veggies and drizzle with tahini or yogurt sauce.
Notes
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.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes (plus soaking)
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern