Let me tell you about the first time I made Air Fryer Falafel – it was a total game-changer! I’d always loved that crispy-on-the-outside, tender-on-the-inside texture of traditional falafel, but hated how much oil deep-frying required. Then one day, after one too many oil-splattered stovetop disasters (my poor kitchen walls!), I decided to try my air fryer. Wow! The results blew me away – all that delicious Middle Eastern flavor with just a fraction of the oil.
What makes this Air Fryer Falafel so special? You get that perfect golden crunch without the greasiness, plus it’s ready in under 30 minutes from fridge to table. My secret? Using soaked (never canned!) chickpeas and a generous handful of fresh herbs. The air fryer works its magic, circulating hot air to create that signature crisp exterior while keeping the inside moist and packed with garlicky, cumin-spiced goodness. Trust me, once you try this method, you’ll never go back to the deep-fryer splatter zone again!
Why You’ll Love This Air Fryer Falafel
If you’re looking for a dish that’s as easy to make as it is delicious, this Air Fryer Falafel is it. Here’s why you’ll be obsessed:
- Quick and simple: From prep to plate, it’s ready in under 30 minutes – perfect for busy weeknights.
- Healthier cooking: The air fryer gives you that crispy texture without all the oil of deep-frying.
- Bold flavors: Fresh herbs, garlic, and spices pack every bite with authentic Middle Eastern flavor.
- Meal prep friendly: Make a big batch and enjoy it all week in salads, wraps, or as a snack.
- Vegetarian superstar: Packed with protein from chickpeas, it’s a filling, meatless option everyone will love.
Trust me, once you try this, it’ll become your go-to recipe for a quick, healthy, and flavorful meal!
Ingredients for Air Fryer Falafel
Okay, let’s talk ingredients – this is where the magic starts! The beauty of falafel is how simple, wholesome ingredients transform into something incredible. Here’s exactly what you’ll need:
- 1 cup dried chickpeas (soaked overnight – and yes, this is non-negotiable!)
- 1 small onion, roughly chopped (I like yellow for mild sweetness)
- 3 garlic cloves (because more garlic is always better)
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley (packed – stems and all)
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro (if you’re anti-cilantro, just double the parsley)
- 1 tsp ground cumin (that warm, earthy flavor is essential)
- 1 tsp ground coriander (cumin’s citrusy cousin)
- 1/2 tsp baking soda (the secret lift agent)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice (fresh squeezed, please!)
- 1/2 tsp salt (I use kosher)
- 1/4 tsp black pepper (freshly cracked)
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for brushing – extra virgin is my go-to)
Pro tip: Measure everything before you start – it makes the process so much smoother!
Equipment You’ll Need for Air Fryer Falafel
Here’s the short and sweet list of what you’ll need to make these crispy bites:
- Air fryer (of course!)
- Food processor (to blend the chickpeas and herbs into that perfect coarse texture)
- Measuring spoons (for those precise spice amounts)
- Brush (to lightly coat the falafel with olive oil)
That’s it – no fancy gadgets required! Just these essentials and you’re good to go.
How to Make Air Fryer Falafel
Alright, let’s get cooking! Making falafel in the air fryer is easier than you think, but there are a few key steps to get that perfect crispy-on-the-outside, tender-on-the-inside texture. Follow along – I’ll walk you through each step with all my little tricks!
Step 1: Blend Your Ingredients
First, drain those soaked chickpeas (no need to pat them dry – a little moisture helps!). Toss them into your food processor with the onion, garlic, parsley, cilantro, cumin, coriander, baking soda, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Now, here’s my secret: pulse in short bursts, scraping down the sides as you go. You want a coarse texture that holds together when pinched – not a smooth paste! If it seems too dry, add 1-2 tablespoons of water (but go slow – too much and your falafel will fall apart).
Step 2: Shape Your Falafel
Scoop out about 2 tablespoons of the mixture and roll it into a ball (about 1.5 inches wide). If you’re making patties instead, gently flatten them to about 1/2 inch thick. Pro tip: Wet your hands slightly to prevent sticking! Place them on a plate as you go – you should get about 12 falafel from this batch.
Step 3: Preheat and Prep
Now, preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 3 minutes – this helps get that instant crisp when they hit the basket. While it’s heating, lightly brush each falafel with olive oil (or give them a quick spritz with cooking spray). This golden touch makes all the difference!
Step 4: Air Fry to Perfection
Arrange the falafel in a single layer in the basket – don’t crowd them! Cook for 12-15 minutes, flipping them halfway through. You’ll know they’re done when they’re deeply golden and sound slightly hollow when tapped. If some are browning too fast, just rotate their positions in the basket.
And that’s it! Let them cool for a minute (they firm up as they rest) before diving in. The smell of garlic and cumin will have you sneaking tastes straight from the basket – I won’t tell!
Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Falafel
Want to nail this recipe every time? Here are my tried-and-true tips for falafel success:
- Stick to dried chickpeas: Canned chickpeas are too soft and will make your falafel fall apart. Trust me, soaking overnight is worth it!
- Check the texture: If your mixture feels dry and crumbly, add 1-2 tablespoons of water. It should hold together when pressed.
- Oil is your friend: Lightly brush or spray the falafel with olive oil before air frying. This gives you that golden, crispy exterior.
- Don’t overcrowd the basket: Leave space between each falafel so the air can circulate and crisp them evenly.
- Flip halfway: Remember to turn them over mid-cook for even browning on both sides.
Follow these tips, and you’ll have perfect falafel every single time!
Serving Suggestions for Air Fryer Falafel
Now for the fun part – how to enjoy your crispy Air Fryer Falafel! My absolute favorite way is stuffed in warm pita with tahini sauce, chopped tomatoes, and a big handful of fresh parsley. But honestly, these little flavor bombs are versatile:
- Classic style: Stuff in pita with hummus, Israeli salad, and pickled turnips
- Dippable: Serve with tahini sauce or cucumber yogurt dip as an appetizer
- Salad topper: Crumble over a Greek salad or tabbouleh for extra protein
- Wrap it up: Roll in lavash with roasted veggies and garlic sauce
- Breakfast twist: (My secret!) Top scrambled eggs with falafel crumbles
Pro tip: Double the batch – they reheat beautifully for next-day lunches!
Storing and Reheating Air Fryer Falafel
Got leftovers? No problem! Let the falafel cool completely, then store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them back in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3-5 minutes – they’ll come out just as crispy as the first time!
Nutritional Information for Air Fryer Falafel
Here’s the scoop: this Air Fryer Falafel is packed with plant-based protein and fiber, making it a nutritious choice for snacks or meals. Keep in mind, though, that nutritional values can vary based on ingredient brands and portions. For precise numbers, it’s always best to calculate based on your specific ingredients.
FAQs About Air Fryer Falafel
Can I use canned chickpeas instead of dried?
Oh honey, I know it’s tempting – but no! Canned chickpeas are already cooked and way too soft, which’ll give you mushy falafel that falls apart in the air fryer. Those dried-and-soaked chickpeas are the secret to that perfect texture – trust me on this one!
Why won’t my falafel hold together?
If your mixture crumbles when shaping, don’t panic! Usually it just needs a tablespoon or two of water to help bind everything. And make sure you’re pulsing (not blending) – you want a coarse texture, not hummus!
Can I freeze air fryer falafel?
Absolutely! Shape the mixture into balls/patties and freeze them raw on a baking sheet. Once solid, transfer to bags. When craving hits, cook directly from frozen – just add 2-3 extra minutes!
Do I need to flip them halfway?
Yes please! That quick flip ensures even crispiness on all sides. Think of it like tucking them in for a cozy nap – they’ll wake up perfectly golden!
For more delicious recipes and inspiration, check out our Pinterest page!
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Crispy Air Fryer Falafel in Just 30 Minutes: No Oil Mess!
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 12 falafel 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Crispy and flavorful falafel made easily in an air fryer for a healthier twist on the classic dish.
Ingredients
- 1 cup dried chickpeas (soaked overnight)
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp ground coriander
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Drain soaked chickpeas and add them to a food processor.
- Add onion, garlic, parsley, cilantro, cumin, coriander, baking soda, lemon juice, salt, and pepper to the food processor.
- Pulse until mixture is coarse but holds together.
- Form mixture into small balls or patties.
- Brush falafel with olive oil.
- Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Place falafel in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
- Cook for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy.
- Serve warm with tahini or yogurt sauce.
Notes
- Do not use canned chickpeas—only dried and soaked.
- If the mixture is too dry, add 1-2 tbsp water.
- For extra crispiness, spray falafel lightly with cooking oil before air frying.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Air Fryer
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 3 falafel
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
