Are you craving a snack that's both crispy and flavorful? Look no further! In this guide, I’ll show you how to make crispy air fryer falafel that’s sure to impress. With simple ingredients like chickpeas, fresh herbs, and just the right blend of spices, you'll whip up a tasty treat in no time. Join me as we dive into a quick and easy recipe that’s perfect for any occasion.
Why I Love This Recipe
- Healthy and Nutritious: These falafels are packed with plant-based protein and fiber, making them a wholesome meal option.
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for cooks of all skill levels.
- Crispy Texture: The air fryer gives these falafel a delightful crunch without the excess oil, keeping them light and crispy.
- Versatile Serving Options: Serve them in wraps, salads, or as a snack with your favorite dipping sauce for a delicious meal.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup dried chickpeas (soaked overnight)
- 1 small onion, roughly chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
Seasonings and Add-ins
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons tahini (optional)
Cooking Equipment and Aids
- Air fryer
- Food processor
- Olive oil spray
Gathering these ingredients is the first step to making crispy air fryer falafel. Soaking dried chickpeas overnight is key. This softens them and makes blending easy. The chickpeas form the base of your falafel. The onion and garlic add a savory touch. Fresh parsley and cilantro bring brightness and color.
For seasonings, ground cumin and coriander give warmth and depth. Baking powder helps the falafel rise and stay fluffy inside. Use salt and black pepper to taste. Lemon juice adds a zesty kick, while tahini gives a creamy texture. You can skip tahini if you prefer a lighter mix.
Make sure you have an air fryer. It cooks the falafel evenly and gives them a nice crunch. A food processor is essential for mixing the ingredients quickly. Lastly, olive oil spray helps create a crispy outer layer without excess oil.
With these ingredients and tools, you’re ready to create a tasty snack!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation of Chickpeas
- Soaking the chickpeas: Start with 1 cup of dried chickpeas. Place them in a bowl and cover them with water. Let them soak overnight. This step is key. It softens the chickpeas, making them easy to blend.
- Draining and rinsing: After soaking, drain the chickpeas. Rinse them well with cold water. This helps remove any dirt or residue.
Mixing the Ingredients
- Combining ingredients in the food processor: In a food processor, add the soaked chickpeas, one small chopped onion, two minced garlic cloves, 1/4 cup chopped parsley, and 1/4 cup chopped cilantro. Also, include 1 teaspoon of ground cumin, 1 teaspoon of ground coriander, 1/2 teaspoon of baking powder, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper. Finally, add 1 tablespoon of lemon juice and 2 tablespoons of tahini if you like.
- Pulsing to achieve desired texture: Pulse the mixture until it is coarse. It should hold together when you press it. Be careful not to over-process it. You want some texture in your falafel.
Forming and Cooking Falafel
- Chilling the mixture: After mixing, transfer the falafel mixture to a bowl. Cover it and chill in the fridge for about 30 minutes. This makes it easier to shape.
- Preheating the air fryer: While the mixture chills, preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). This step ensures your falafel cook evenly.
- Shaping the falafel and applying olive oil spray: Once chilled, shape the mixture into small balls or patties, about 1.5 inches wide. Lightly spray each falafel with olive oil spray. This helps them get crispy.
- Air frying the falafel until crispy: Place the falafel in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Make sure not to overcrowd them. Cook for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway. When they are golden brown and crispy, they are ready to enjoy.
Tips & Tricks
Achieving the Perfect Crisp
To get that perfect crisp on your falafel, use olive oil spray. This spray coats the falafel lightly and helps them brown nicely. Remember to cook in batches. This keeps them from sticking together and ensures they cook evenly.
Texture Tips
When mixing the falafel, do not over-process the mixture. You want it coarse enough to hold its shape but not mushy. After mixing, chill the mixture for about 30 minutes. This helps it firm up, making it easier to shape into balls.
Flavor Enhancements
For tasty falafel, add fresh herbs like parsley and cilantro. You can also try spices like cumin and coriander for depth. Serve your falafel with tahini or a yogurt sauce for extra flavor. Pair it with pita or a fresh salad for a delightful meal.
Pro Tips
- Soak Chickpeas Properly: Ensure that the dried chickpeas are soaked for at least 12 hours to soften them and enhance the texture of your falafel.
- Keep It Chunky: When processing the mixture, pulse it to create a coarse texture. This helps the falafel maintain their shape and gives a better bite.
- Chill for Better Shape: Refrigerating the mixture for about 30 minutes helps the flavors meld and makes it easier to shape the falafel without them falling apart.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Air Fryer: Cook the falafel in batches if necessary. Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking and prevent them from getting crispy.
Variations
Flavor Variations
You can change the taste of your falafel easily. Adding spices can make it special. Try adding paprika for a smoky flavor. Cayenne pepper adds heat. You can also use fresh herbs. Dill gives a bright taste. Mint adds a refreshing twist.
Dietary Variations
If you need gluten-free options, use gluten-free breadcrumbs. They help bind the mix without gluten. For low-fat choices, skip the tahini or use less oil. You can still enjoy crispy falafel! This recipe is vegan-friendly. It uses no animal products, making it perfect for everyone.
Serving Style
Falafel can be fun to serve. You can make wraps or pita sandwiches. Just add veggies and sauce. Pair your falafel with dips like tahini or yogurt sauce. These dips add creaminess and flavor. Enjoy your crispy air fryer falafel in many tasty ways!
Storage Info
Storing Uncooked Falafel
You can store uncooked falafel in the fridge. Place the mixture in a bowl, cover it tightly, and keep it cold. Use it within 24 hours for the best taste. If you want to save some for later, freeze the leftover mixture. Shape it into balls or patties first. Then, place them on a baking sheet and freeze until firm. After that, transfer the frozen falafel to an airtight container or freezer bag. They can last for up to three months in the freezer.
Storing Cooked Falafel
To store cooked falafel, let them cool completely. Place them in an airtight container in the fridge. They will stay fresh for about three days. If you want to keep them crispy, avoid stacking them. To reheat, use your air fryer. Heat them at 375°F (190°C) for about 5-7 minutes. This will help maintain their crispy texture. You can also use an oven at the same temperature for reheating.
Shelf Life
The shelf life of falafel depends on how you store them. Cooked falafel lasts about three days in the fridge. Frozen falafel can be kept for up to three months. Uncooked falafel mixture should be made and used within 24 hours for the best flavor. Use these guidelines to enjoy your falafel at their best!
FAQs
Can I use canned chickpeas for falafel?
Yes, you can use canned chickpeas. However, there are key differences. Dried chickpeas have more texture and flavor. They also absorb spices better. Canned chickpeas are softer and may lead to a mushy falafel. If you use canned ones, drain and rinse them well. You may need to adjust the cooking time.
How do I make falafel spicier?
To make falafel spicier, add hot spices. Consider using cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper. You can also add more cumin or coriander for extra flavor. Another idea is to mix in minced jalapeños or chili flakes. Just remember to taste the mixture before cooking!
Can I bake these falafel instead of air frying?
Yes, you can bake falafel. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the falafel on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 20-25 minutes. Flip them halfway through for even cooking. They may not be as crispy as air-fried ones, but they will still be tasty!
We explored the essential ingredients for delicious falafel, from soaked chickpeas to fresh herbs. I shared step-by-step instructions to help you mix and cook the perfect batch. You now have tips for achieving crispness and variations to suit your taste.
My final thought is that making falafel can be fun and rewarding. Experiment with flavors and enjoy your homemade dishes with friends and family. Happy cooking!
