If you’re looking for a healthy and tasty snack or meal, look no further than this crispy air fryer falafel. It’s packed with protein, flavor, and a delightful crunch that will satisfy your cravings without the guilt. Whether you’re a fan of Middle Eastern cuisine or just trying to add more plant-based options to your diet, this recipe is a must-try.
The best part? Making falafel at home is easier than you think! With minimal prep time and a simple list of ingredients, you can whip up a batch of these little bites of goodness in no time. Serve them in a wrap, on a salad, or simply on their own with your favorite dipping sauce.
Overview of Air Fryer Falafel
Air fryer falafel offers a delightful twist on a traditional favorite. These golden-brown bites are not only crispy but also packed with flavor, thanks to a blend of herbs and spices.
With a crunchy exterior and a tender inside, falafel can serve as a snack, meal, or even an appetizer. When paired with creamy tahini sauce and fresh vegetables, they create an appealing dish that’s as healthy as it is delicious.
Ingredients That Shine
The key to making remarkable falafel lies in the ingredients. Using quality chickpeas, fresh herbs like parsley and cilantro, along with spices such as cumin and coriander, elevates the flavor profile significantly.
The addition of garlic and onion introduces a savory depth that complements the nuttiness of the chickpeas. A light touch of olive oil helps achieve the perfect crispness in the air fryer, making this dish both satisfying and nourishing.
Preparing the Mixture
The process begins with blending the ingredients in a food processor. Combining drained chickpeas, herbs, and spices creates a coarse mixture that’s easy to form into balls or patties.
This method not only saves time but also ensures that each falafel is infused with the vibrant flavors necessary for an authentic taste. Stirring in flour helps bind the mixture together, making it easier to shape.
Air Frying for Perfection
Preheating the air fryer to the right temperature is essential for achieving that desired crunch.
Once set, lightly brushing the formed falafel with olive oil before placement in the basket ensures they crisp up beautifully during cooking. Air frying requires less oil than traditional frying, making this method a healthier choice without sacrificing texture or taste.
Serving Suggestions
Once cooked to a golden brown, the falafel can be enjoyed warm with a side of creamy tahini sauce. This sauce adds a rich, nutty flavor that complements the spices in the falafel perfectly.
Garnishing with fresh parsley enhances both the visual appeal and flavor. Accompanying fresh vegetables like sliced cucumbers and tomatoes adds a refreshing crunch, making for a well-rounded meal.
Why Choose Air Fryer Falafel?
Choosing air fryer falafel means enjoying all the flavors of traditional falafel with fewer calories and less oil.
This method caters to those looking for healthy meal options without compromising taste. The result is a dish that is not only satisfying but also packed with protein and nutrients, perfect for anyone seeking nutritious plant-based cuisine.
Easy and Delicious Air Fryer Falafel
These air fryer falafel are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, showcasing a perfect blend of herbs and spices. The taste is nutty, earthy, and slightly spicy, making them a flavorful addition to any meal.
Ingredients
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon flour (or chickpea flour for gluten-free)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Prep the Mixture: In a food processor, combine chickpeas, onion, garlic, parsley, cilantro, cumin, coriander, salt, and pepper. Process until a coarse mixture forms.
- Form the Falafel: Transfer the mixture to a bowl and stir in flour. Form small balls or patties, about 1-2 inches in diameter.
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Air Fry the Falafel: Lightly brush the falafel with olive oil. Place them in the air fryer basket in a single layer and cook for 12-15 minutes, turning halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
- Serve: Remove the falafel from the air fryer and serve warm with your choice of tahini sauce, yogurt, or in a wrap.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories: 150kcal
- Fat: 5g
- Protein: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 20g