Are you ready to enjoy a tasty and easy dish? This Crispy Air Fryer Falafel recipe shines with bold flavors and a satisfying crunch. With simple ingredients and clear steps, I’ll show you how to whip these up in no time. Light, healthy, and full of spices, this falafel will impress both your friends and family. Let’s dive in and get cooking!

Ingredients
To make crispy air fryer falafel, gather the following ingredients:
– Chickpeas: 1 can (15 oz), thoroughly drained and rinsed
– Vegetables: 1 small onion, roughly chopped
– Fresh Herbs: 1/4 cup parsley, coarsely chopped
– Fresh Herbs: 1/4 cup cilantro, coarsely chopped
– Spices: 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Spices: 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– Spices: Salt and pepper to taste
– Leavening Agents: 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– Leavening Agents: 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– Oils and Flour: 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Oils and Flour: 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (or chickpea flour for a gluten-free option)
Each ingredient plays a key role. The chickpeas provide protein and texture. Onions and garlic add depth of flavor. Fresh herbs bring brightness, while spices like cumin and coriander give warmth and earthiness. Baking powder and baking soda help the falafel rise, making them light and crisp. Olive oil adds richness, and flour helps bind everything together. This mix ensures your falafel will be flavorful and easy to make.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Mixture
Start by gathering your ingredients. Take the drained chickpeas, chopped onion, minced garlic, parsley, and cilantro. Place them in your food processor. Pulse the mix until it’s coarse. Be careful not to make it a paste. You want some texture to keep it interesting.
Step 2: Add Spices and Seasoning
Next, add your spices. Sprinkle in the ground cumin and coriander. Then, toss in the baking powder and baking soda. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Pulse the mixture again until the spices blend in well. This step adds warmth and depth to your falafel.
Step 3: Form the Falafel
Now, it’s time to shape your falafel. Scrape down the sides of the food processor. Add the olive oil and flour to the mix, then pulse until just combined. The mixture should hold its shape when you press it together. If it feels too sticky, you can add a bit more flour. Form the mixture into balls, about 1.5 inches in diameter. Wet your hands lightly to help shape them without sticking.
Tips & Tricks
Achieving Maximum Crispiness
To get your falafel crispy, lightly brush or spray them with olive oil before air frying. This small step adds a lovely crunch. It also enhances the flavor, making each bite more delicious.
Cooking Technique
Air fry the falafel in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding the basket. This allows hot air to circulate around each piece. Flip the falafel halfway through cooking for even browning. This method helps create that perfect crispy outside.
Testing for Doneness
Check for doneness by looking for a golden brown color. The falafel should be crispy on the outside. If they look good, they are ready to come out of the air fryer. Enjoy the crispy texture and flavorful taste!
Variations
Gluten-Free Option
If you want a gluten-free option, use chickpea flour. This works great in place of all-purpose flour. It keeps the falafel light and crispy. Plus, it adds a nice nutty taste. Just swap the flour in the recipe, and you’re set!
Flavor Variations
You can make your falafel even more exciting! Try adding different herbs. Fresh mint or dill can give a fresh twist. These herbs add brightness and complexity. Just chop them finely and mix them in with your other ingredients. Your taste buds will thank you!
Protein Additions
Want to boost the nutrition? Consider adding finely chopped nuts or seeds. Walnuts, almonds, or sunflower seeds are great choices. They add texture and healthy fats. Just mix them into the falafel mixture before shaping. This little change can make a big difference!
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
You can store leftover falafel in an airtight container. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the fridge. Just make sure the container is sealed well to keep them from drying out.
Reheating Instructions
To reheat, use the air fryer. This keeps the falafel crispy. Set the air fryer to 375°F and cook for about 5-7 minutes. Check them often to make sure they do not burn.
Freezing Instructions
You can freeze uncooked falafel balls for later use. Lay them flat on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer the balls to a freezer bag. When you are ready to eat, air fry them directly from frozen. Cook for 12-15 minutes at 375°F, and enjoy a quick meal!
FAQs
How do I make air fryer falafel without a food processor?
Simply use a potato masher or fork to mash chickpeas and mix ingredients by hand. Start by draining and rinsing your chickpeas. Then, mash them until they are mostly smooth but still a bit chunky. Chop your onion, garlic, parsley, and cilantro finely. Mix everything in a bowl. This method takes a little more effort but still gives you tasty falafel.
Can I bake falafel instead of air frying?
Yes, you can bake at 375°F for about 20-25 minutes until crispy. To bake, form the falafel balls and place them on a lined baking sheet. Brush them lightly with olive oil to help them crisp up. Bake them in the oven, flipping halfway through for even cooking. Keep an eye on them to ensure they don’t burn.
What to serve with crispy falafel?
Recommended sides include tahini sauce, tzatziki, pita bread, and fresh veggies. Tahini sauce adds a creamy, nutty flavor that pairs well with falafel. Tzatziki offers a cool, refreshing taste. Pita bread is great for wrapping the falafel, and fresh veggies like cucumber or tomatoes add a nice crunch. These sides make your meal more complete and delicious.
You now know how to make delicious falafel using simple ingredients. We covered each step, from preparing the mixture to air frying for that perfect crisp. Remember, using fresh herbs and spices makes a huge difference in taste. You can switch up flavors and even store leftovers easily. Try it with different dips or sides for a fun meal. Enjoy your cooking and experiment with this tasty dish!
