Air Fryer Falafel Crispy Healthy Bites
Ditch the deep fryer This Air Fryer Falafel recipe delivers crispy healthy Middle Eastern flavours in minutes So easy even a beginner can nail it Get the recipe ... Vegetarian Delights
Recipe Introduction: Ace Your Air Fryer Falafel Game
Ever wondered if you could get that authentic falafel crunch at home? Well, wonder no more. This Air Fryer Falafel recipe is a total game-changer.
Honestly, you won't even miss the deep fryer.
Crispy, Healthy, and Oh-So-Easy
Traditional Arabic Falafel hails from the Middle East. It is usually a mix of ground chickpeas, herbs, and spices. Our version is a healthier Vegetarian Falafel With Herbs , it's cooked in an air fryer, not fried.
This recipe is easy. It takes about 40 minutes, plus soaking time. It makes 16-20 falafel, perfect for sharing.
Why This Recipe Rocks
This Air Fryer Falafel is good for you. Chickpeas are full of protein and fiber. This Falafel Recipe is a perfect appetizer for parties.
Or you can use it as a quick lunch. What makes this recipe special? It is so easy and delicious! These are the best Middle Eastern appetizers .
Get ready to dive into the ingredients.
Air Fryer Falafel Crispy Healthy Bites Recipe Card
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts
Ingredients & Equipment for Your Air Fryer Falafel Adventure!
Okay, let's talk ingredients for our Crispy Air Fryer Falafel . Honestly, it's all pretty straightforward. Don’t let it scare you!
Main Ingredients: The Nitty-Gritty
- Dried chickpeas: 1 cup (180g) . They need to soak overnight (12- 24 hours). Trust me on this! Then drain and rinse like your life depends on it.
- Fresh parsley: 1/2 cup (75g) , chopped.
- Fresh cilantro (coriander): 1/4 cup (35g) , chopped. If you're one of those people who think cilantro tastes like soap, sub with extra parsley or some mint.
- Onion: 1 small (50g) , roughly chopped.
- Garlic: 2 cloves , minced.
- Lemon juice: 1 tablespoon (15ml) . Fresh is best, innit?
- Olive oil: 1 tablespoon (15ml) .
- Ground cumin: 1 teaspoon .
- Ground coriander: 1 teaspoon .
- Baking powder: 1/2 teaspoon . This makes them light and fluffy.
- Cayenne pepper: 1/4 teaspoon (or to taste).
- Salt: 1/2 teaspoon (or to taste).
- Black pepper: 1/4 teaspoon (or to taste).
- Water: 1-2 tablespoons (15-30ml) , if needed. Only if the mixture is dry.
- All-purpose flour or chickpea flour: 1 tablespoon (10g) , if needed.
For those key ingredients (chickpeas, herbs, spices), go for quality if you can. It makes a difference. You know?
Seasoning Notes: Flavour Bombs
Cumin and coriander are essential for that authentic Middle Eastern vibe. Don't skip those! A little cayenne adds a nice kick, but feel free to adjust to your liking.
For a flavour boost, a pinch of smoked paprika is good. If you are looking for a Vegetarian Falafel With Herbs , increase the quantity of parsley and cilantro.
If you are missing something, use whatever spice is closely related to the original. You can substitute parsley and cilantro with mint or basil.
Equipment Needed: Keep it Simple
- A big bowl.
- A colander to drain those chickpeas properly.
- Food processor : Essential for blending everything.
- Air fryer : Obviously!
- Measuring cups and spoons.
- Cookie scoop or spoon for portioning.
Honestly, you probably have most of this stuff already. If you don’t have an air fryer, get one. They're fab.
It is a faster, healthier option for cooking your Homemade falafel air fryer . They're lush for chips too! This Easy vegan air fryer recipes can be a life saver if you want to cook something quickly.
Air Fryer Falafel: Crispy Goodness Made Easy
Oh my gosh, you have to try this! Crispy Air Fryer Falafel is where it's at. Forget standing over a hot pan.
We're air frying our way to Middle Eastern deliciousness! This Falafel Recipe is ridiculously simple. Honestly, if I can do it, you definitely can.
It all comes down to using the air fryer !
Prep Like a Pro
- Essential mise en place: Chop your parsley and cilantro. Mince that garlic. Get your spices ready. Everything in its place!
- Time-saving tips: Soaking the chickpeas is crucial . Do it the night before! Trust me on this one.
- Safety first: Remember to turn off and unplug that food processor! Nobody wants a kitchen mishap.
Step-by-Step to Homemade falafel air fryer
- Soak 1 cup of dried chickpeas overnight! Seriously, don't skip this step.
- In a food processor, combine the soaked chickpeas, herbs, spices, onion, and garlic. Pulse until coarsely ground. Not a paste!
- If too dry, add 1-2 tablespoons of water. If too wet, add 1 tablespoon of flour.
- Chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This helps them stick together.
- Form into patties or balls.
- Preheat your air fryer to 375° F ( 190° C) .
- Lightly spray with olive oil. Air fry for 15- 20 minutes . Flip halfway through.
- Serve immediately. These are amazing with Falafel with tahini sauce recipe !
Pro Tips and Tricks
- Don't overcrowd the air fryer! Work in batches for even cooking.
- Common mistake: Over-processing the chickpeas. Coarse texture is key.
- Make-ahead option: Prepare the mixture and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Form and air fry when ready.
Air Fryer Falafel – it's a game changer. A healthier take on a classic. Plus, air fryer recipes healthy are totally my jam right now.
Serve these with Middle Eastern appetizers like hummus and pita. You'll have a proper feast! These vegetarian falafel with herbs are a crowd-pleaser.
You know? That's why Easy vegan air fryer recipes are the bomb! Enjoy Traditional Arabic Falafel flavors without the greasy aftertaste.
Honestly, you won't regret it. Give it a go, and let me know what you think!
Recipe Notes for The Best Air Fryer Falafel
Right, so you've got the recipe for my Crispy Air Fryer Falafel , yeah? Ace! But before you dive in headfirst, let's chew the fat about a few extra bits and bobs.
Things I’ve learned along the way, you know? Like that time I forgot to soak the chickpeas... oh my gosh, what a nightmare!
Plating and Presentation Ideas for Air Fryer Falafel
Fancy pants or keeping it real? Honestly, I'm more of a "pile it high" kinda girl. But, a good dollop of hummus and a sprinkle of paprika always looks peng.
Serve your Vegetarian Falafel With Herbs in warm pita pockets. Add all the fixings: lettuce, tomato, a drizzle of tahini sauce.
Or, make a banging falafel bowl with quinoa, roasted veggies, and a lemon vinaigrette. Feeling extra? Garnish with some fresh herbs.
Storage Like A Pro: Keeps The Air Fryer Falafel Delicious and Fresh
Got leftovers? Lucky you! Keep your Homemade Falafel Air Fryer creations in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
They might lose a bit of crispness, but they'll still taste delish. You can freeze these too! Pop them in a freezer bag and they'll be good for a month or two.
To reheat, bung them back in the air fryer for a few minutes until they're warm and crispy again. If they are frozen, add 5-7 minutes.
Tweak It: Making Falafel Recipes Your Own
Fancy a bit of a twist? For a gluten-free version, use chickpea flour. Sub the all-purpose flour for something similar.
Want some heat? Add a pinch of chili flakes. You know? Don’t be shy! My favourite is to add a bit of smoked paprika for that extra oomph.
For a Traditional Arabic Falafel taste, remember your cumin and coriander, and don't skimp on the fresh herbs. Parsley and cilantro are a must! You can even try different herbs like mint or dill for a unique flavour profile.
Nutritional Stuff For Air Fryer Recipes Healthy
Okay, so I'm no nutritionist, but let's keep it real. These Air Fryer Falafel are way healthier than the deep-fried ones.
Chickpeas are packed with protein and fibre. All those herbs are good for you, innit? A good source of plant-based protein and fibre and a great option for folks looking for easy vegan air fryer recipes .
This falafel with tahini sauce recipe is also a fab source of healthy fats.
Honestly, give these Air Fryer Falafel a go. They are so easy to make, and I reckon you'll be chuffed with the results! Now get cooking and remember to have fun!
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do I need to soak the chickpeas overnight for Air Fryer Falafel? Can't I just use canned chickpeas?
Soaking dried chickpeas is absolutely crucial, mate! It allows them to soften and bind together properly, giving your falafel that lovely, fluffy texture. Canned chickpeas are already cooked, and they'll result in a mushy, less authentic falafel. Trust me, it's worth the forward planning – you'll be chuffed with the difference!
My Air Fryer Falafel mixture is too dry or too wet, what can I do?
No worries, it happens to the best of us! If your mixture is too dry, add a tablespoon of water at a time until it binds together. If it's too wet, gradually add a teaspoon of flour (all-purpose or chickpea flour works a treat) until you get the right consistency. You're aiming for a mixture that holds its shape when you form it into patties – a bit like making meatballs.
How do I prevent my Air Fryer Falafel from falling apart in the air fryer?
A few things can help prevent falafel crumble. Firstly, ensure your chickpea mixture isn't overly wet – that's the biggest culprit. Secondly, chilling the mixture in the fridge for at least 30 minutes helps the ingredients bind together. Finally, be gentle when handling the falafel before and after cooking. A light spray with oil before air frying also helps to create a nice crust that holds them together.
Can I freeze these Air Fryer Falafel, and if so, how?
Absolutely, freezing is a brilliant way to have falafel on hand for a quick meal! Simply arrange the cooked and cooled falafel on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze them. Once frozen solid, transfer them to a freezer bag or container. When you fancy some, you can reheat them in the air fryer for a few minutes until warmed through and crispy – easy peasy!
Are Air Fryer Falafel actually healthier than deep-fried falafel?
You bet they are, old bean! Cooking falafel in an air fryer significantly reduces the amount of oil used compared to traditional deep-frying. This means fewer calories and less fat, making it a much healthier option. You still get that lovely crispy exterior and delicious flavour, just without all the extra grease – it’s a win-win!
What are some tasty variations I can try with this Air Fryer Falafel recipe?
Oh, the possibilities are endless, really! For a bit of a kick, try adding some chili flakes or smoked paprika to the mixture. You could also experiment with different herbs like mint or dill for a fresh twist. Using chickpea flour instead of all-purpose flour makes them naturally gluten-free. Don't be afraid to get creative and put your own spin on them - you might just discover your new favourite flavour!
