Air Fryer Falafel Recipe

Crispy outside, tender and flavorful inside—this Air Fryer Falafel Recipe is a healthier twist on the classic Middle Eastern favorite. Made with soaked chickpeas, fresh herbs, garlic, and spices, these golden falafel balls are air-fried to perfection without deep-frying. They’re perfect for wraps, bowls, salads, or a protein-packed snack.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Crispy with Less Oil – All the crunch without the grease.
Packed with Flavor – Fresh herbs and warm spices give bold, authentic taste.
Easy & Healthy – Air fryer method makes cleanup simple and mess-free.
Great for Meal Prep – Make a batch and enjoy all week.
Naturally Vegan – A plant-based protein that everyone will enjoy.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 ½ cups dried chickpeas (soaked overnight, do not use canned)
• ½ medium onion, roughly chopped
• 3 cloves garlic
• 1 cup fresh parsley, tightly packed
• ½ cup fresh cilantro, tightly packed
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp ground coriander
• ½ tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 2–3 tbsp flour (chickpea or all-purpose, as needed)
• Olive oil spray (for air frying)

Optional for Serving:

• Pita bread or lettuce wraps
• Hummus, tahini sauce, or garlic yogurt sauce
• Chopped cucumbers, tomatoes, red onion
• Lemon wedges

Tools You’ll Need

• Food processor
• Air fryer
• Mixing bowl
• Cookie scoop or spoon
• Parchment paper (optional for prepping)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Soak the Chickpeas

1. Add chickpeas to a large bowl and cover with plenty of water.
2. Soak overnight (8–12 hours). Drain and rinse before using.
3. Do not use canned chickpeas—they’re too soft and will fall apart.

Step 2: Prepare the Falafel Mixture

1. Add soaked chickpeas, onion, garlic, parsley, cilantro, cumin, coriander, salt, pepper, and baking powder to a food processor.
2. Pulse until mixture is finely minced and holds together when pressed.
3. Add flour 1 tablespoon at a time until the mixture is cohesive.
4. Transfer to a bowl, cover, and refrigerate for 30–60 minutes to firm up.

Step 3: Shape the Falafel

1. Scoop mixture using a spoon or cookie scoop and form into 1 to 1½ inch balls or patties.
2. Set them on a tray or parchment paper while the air fryer preheats.

Step 4: Air Fry the Falafel

1. Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. Lightly spray the basket with olive oil.
3. Place falafel in a single layer, not touching.
4. Spray the tops with a light coating of oil.
5. Air fry for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crisp.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

1. Serve warm in pita, over salad, or in bowls.
2. Add fresh veggies and your favorite sauce for a complete meal.

Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Falafel
Use Dry Chickpeas – Essential for texture and structure.
Don’t Overmix – The mixture should be coarse, not a paste.
Chill the Mixture – Makes shaping easier and helps them hold together.
Cook in Batches – Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket.
Spray Oil Generously – Helps get that crispy, golden crust.

Serving Suggestions
Falafel Wrap – In pita with tomatoes, cucumber, and tahini.
Falafel Salad – Over greens with hummus and lemon vinaigrette.
Falafel Bowl – With rice, veggies, and garlic sauce.
Appetizer Platter – With olives, pita chips, and dips.
Lettuce Cups – For a low-carb, fresh take.

How to Store & Reheat

Storing:

• Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freeze: Place cooked falafel in a single layer and freeze. Once solid, transfer to a freezer-safe bag.

Reheating:

• Air Fryer: 350°F for 5–7 minutes until hot and crispy.
• Oven: 375°F for 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Not recommended—falafel will become soft.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use canned chickpeas?
No—canned chickpeas are too soft. Use soaked, dried chickpeas only.

2. Can I bake instead of air fry?
Yes! Bake at 400°F for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through.

3. What can I use instead of flour?
Chickpea flour or oat flour are great gluten-free options.

4. How do I prevent falafel from falling apart?
Make sure the mixture isn’t too wet, chill before shaping, and don’t skip the flour.

5. Can I make the mixture ahead of time?
Yes—store the prepared mixture in the fridge for up to 2 days before cooking.

Final Thoughts
This Air Fryer Falafel recipe is everything you want in a wholesome, delicious meal—crispy, flavorful, and satisfying without the extra oil. It’s the kind of dish that makes eating plant-based a joy, whether you serve it in a pita, a bowl, or straight from the fryer.

Try it out and let me know what you think! Don’t forget to leave a review below and share your photos on Pinterest! I can’t wait to see your falafel creations.
Preparation Time: 20 minutes (plus soaking)
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Cuisine: Middle Eastern

Nutritional Information (Per 4 Falafel Balls):
Calories: 290 | Protein: 10g | Carbohydrates: 29g | Fat: 13g | Fiber: 7g | Sodium: 370mg

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