Easy Air Fryer Falafel Recipe: Crispy, Flavorful, and Healthy
Golden chickpea balls deliver crisp, herb-infused flavor with less oil and fuss.
Easy Air Fryer Falafel Recipe
If you love crispy, golden falafel but don’t want the mess and calories of deep-frying, this air fryer falafel recipe is perfect for you. With fresh herbs, plenty of spices, and a creamy tahini yogurt sauce, these chickpea balls are packed with flavor and come out tender on the inside and crunchy on the outside. Best of all, air frying cuts down on oil, making them a healthier option without sacrificing texture or taste.
What Are Falafel Balls Made Of?
Traditionally, falafel is a Middle Eastern dish made from ground chickpeas (or sometimes fava beans), blended with fresh herbs like parsley and cilantro, onions, garlic, and spices. In the United States, chickpeas are most commonly used, but in other regions, a mix of chickpeas and fava beans takes the spotlight. The mixture is seasoned with classic Middle Eastern spices—cumin and sometimes a hint of cayenne for a gentle kick. Baking powder or baking soda is often added for a lighter, fluffier texture.
This recipe keeps things simple by using canned chickpeas, but you can also use dried chickpeas that have been soaked overnight if you want a more traditional approach. Some recipes, including this one, add sesame seeds for a subtle nutty crunch and a little flour to help the falafel hold its shape.
Ingredients
For the Falafel
- Chickpeas (canned or soaked dried)
- Fresh parsley
- Fresh cilantro
- Garlic
- Onion
- Cumin
- Cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- Salt and black pepper
- Flour (any kind works, even gluten-free)
- Baking powder
- Sesame seeds (optional, for crunch)
- Cooking spray (for air frying)
For the Tahini Yogurt Sauce
- Plain yogurt
- Tahini
- Lemon juice
- Olive oil
- Fresh parsley and cilantro
- Garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper
- Water (to thin as needed)
How to Make Air Fryer Falafel
This air fryer method streamlines the process of making falafel, eliminating the hassle of deep frying without compromising on the crispiness or flavor. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Step 1: Prepare the Tahini Yogurt Sauce
In a medium bowl, whisk together yogurt, tahini, lemon juice, olive oil, chopped parsley and cilantro, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and water until smooth. Add more water by the teaspoon if needed, until the sauce is pourable. Cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.
Step 2: Mix the Falafel Ingredients
Add parsley, cilantro, flour, baking powder, salt, black pepper, cumin, cayenne pepper, garlic, and onion to a food processor. Pulse until very finely chopped and combined, scraping down the sides as needed. Add the chickpeas and process until the mixture is almost smooth but still has some texture.
Step 3: Shape the Falafel
Transfer the mixture to a bowl and stir in sesame seeds if using. Use a 1 ½ tablespoon scoop to portion the mixture, rolling it into balls by hand. If the mixture is too wet, add a bit more flour.
Step 4: Air Fry the Falafel
What others are reading
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F, if your model requires it. Spray the basket with cooking spray, then arrange the falafel in a single layer—don’t crowd them. Lightly spray the falafel with more cooking spray for golden browning. Air fry for 15–18 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they’re deep brown and crispy on the outside.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Serve your hot falafel with freshly toasted pita bread, sliced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, and a generous drizzle of tahini yogurt sauce. It’s a simple, satisfying vegetarian meal that feels indulgent without being heavy.
Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Falafel
- If you want a truly traditional falafel, use dried chickpeas soaked overnight; rinse and drain before using.
- Canned chickpeas work well for convenience, but make sure to drain and rinse them thoroughly to remove excess liquid.
- If the mixture is too wet to shape, add a bit more flour until it holds together.
- For extra crunch and flavor, add sesame seeds to the falafel dough or sprinkle them on top before cooking.
- Leftover cooked falafel can be frozen and reheated in the air fryer for a quick meal later. Just pop them in at 350°F for 8–10 minutes until crispy again.
Why Use an Air Fryer for Falafel?
Air frying falafel gives you all the crispy, golden exterior and tender interior you crave, but with significantly less oil than traditional frying. This method is easier, cleaner, and healthier—perfect for weeknight dinners. Plus, air fryers preheat quickly and cook evenly, making them ideal for recipes that benefit from high, dry heat.
Nutritional Benefits of Air Fryer Falafel
Falafel made with chickpeas is not only delicious but also packed with plant-based protein, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals. Air frying reduces the fat content while keeping the texture and flavor intact, making this version a guilt-free choice for vegetarians and those looking to eat healthier.
Serving Suggestions
Falafel is incredibly versatile. Here are some ideas for serving:
- Classic falafel wrap: Stuff the falafel into pita bread with lettuce, tomato, cucumber, and tahini yogurt sauce.
- Falafel platter: Serve falafel on a bed of greens with hummus, tabbouleh, olives, and pita.
- Falafel bowl: Layer rice or quinoa, roasted vegetables, and falafel, then drizzle with tahini sauce.
- Appetizer: Serve as a party snack with tahini yogurt sauce or hummus for dipping.
Other Healthy Air Fryer Recipes
If you’re loving your air fryer, try these other healthy, easy recipes:
- Air Fryer Snap Peas: Sweet, crunchy peas with parmesan for a tasty side or snack.
- Air Fryer Taquitos: Crispy, stuffed tortillas with shredded beef or chicken, perfect for game day.
- Air Fryer Baked Potato: Fluffy inside, crispy outside, with endless topping options.
- Air Fryer Asparagus: Spears tossed in paprika and breadcrumbs for extra crunch.
- Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan: Crispy chicken cutlets with marinara and melty cheese, ready in under 30 minutes.
These recipes show that your air fryer can handle everything from appetizers to main dishes, making it a versatile kitchen tool for healthy, flavorful meals.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use canned or dried chickpeas for falafel?
You can use either! Canned chickpeas are more convenient, but traditionalists prefer dried chickpeas soaked overnight. Both work well; just adjust for moisture as needed.
Why add baking powder to falafel?
Baking powder helps make the falafel light and fluffy. It’s a common addition in many recipes for texture.
How do I store leftover falafel?
Cooled falafel can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for longer storage. Reheat in the air fryer for best texture.
Can I make falafel without an air fryer?
Yes, falafel can be deep-fried or baked, but air frying offers the best compromise between convenience, health, and texture.
What can I serve with falafel besides tahini sauce?
Falafel pairs beautifully with hummus, tzatziki, hot sauce, or even a simple Greek yogurt dip. Add fresh vegetables and pita for a complete meal.
Summary Table: Air Fryer Falafel Vs. Traditional Falafel
| Aspect | Traditional Falafel | Air Fryer Falafel |
|---|---|---|
| Oil | Deep-fried in lots of oil | Lightly sprayed, minimal oil |
| Texture | Crispy, sometimes greasy | Crispy, light, less greasy |
| Prep Time | Longer (soaking chickpeas) | Faster (canned chickpeas ok) |
| Cleanup | Messy, splatter | Clean, contained |
| Healthiness | Good, but high in fat | Healthier, lower fat |
Conclusion
Air fryer falafel is a modern twist on a classic, giving you crispy, flavorful results with less fuss and oil. Whether you’re a vegetarian or just looking for a healthier alternative to fried foods, this recipe fits the bill. With step-by-step instructions, tips for success, and serving ideas, you can enjoy delicious falafel anytime—no deep fryer required. Add a tangy tahini yogurt sauce, some fresh veggies, and warm pita, and you’ll have a meal that’s as satisfying as it is simple to make.
More Air Fryer Recipes to Try
Once you’ve mastered falafel, explore the world of air frying with recipes for chicken parmesan, asparagus, sweet potato fries, and even onion rings—all with less mess and fewer calories. Your air fryer is the secret to crisp, healthy meals that everyone will love.
References
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/recipes/a60661709/air-fryer-falafel-recipe/
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/meals-menus/g42388523/healthy-air-fryer-recipes/
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/meals-menus/g63395883/air-fryer-recipes/
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/air-fryer/
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