Looking for a delicious way to enjoy falafel? You've come to the right place! My crispy air fryer falafel recipe is simple, tasty, and perfect for any meal. With fresh herbs and easy steps, you’ll have a delightful dish everyone loves. Plus, I'll share tips for avoiding common mistakes and what to serve with it. Let’s dive into the crunchy goodness of air fryer falafel together!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Healthy and Nutritious: These falafels are packed with protein and fiber from the chickpeas, making them a wholesome meal option.
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for both beginners and experienced cooks.
- Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy them in a wrap, with a salad, or as a snack with your favorite dipping sauce.
- Crispy and Delicious: The air fryer gives these falafels a delightful crunch without the excess oil, making them guilt-free indulgence.
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
To make crispy air fryer falafel, you will need the following:
- 1 cup dried chickpeas (soaked overnight)
- 1 small onion, roughly chopped
- 3 cloves garlic
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 teaspoon cumin powder
- 1 teaspoon coriander powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- Cooking spray
Importance of Fresh Herbs
Fresh herbs make falafel vibrant and full of flavor. They bring a bright taste to the dish. I love using parsley and cilantro in my falafel. These herbs add freshness and a nice aroma. They also help balance the spices. Using fresh herbs can elevate your meal to a new level. Dried herbs do not provide the same punch, so always try to use fresh.
Substitutions for Dried Chickpeas
Dried chickpeas are best for this recipe, but canned ones can work too. If you use canned chickpeas, rinse and drain them well. You can skip the soaking step but reduce the cooking time. Canned chickpeas may make the falafel a bit softer. If you want that crispy texture, it’s best to stick with dried chickpeas. The soak helps them absorb water and swell, making them perfect for blending.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Chickpeas
To start, soak 1 cup of dried chickpeas overnight. This step is important. Soaking softens the chickpeas. It also helps them blend better. After soaking, drain the chickpeas and rinse them well. Place them in your food processor.
Mixing Ingredients for the Falafel Batter
Add 1 small chopped onion, 3 garlic cloves, 1/4 cup of parsley, and 1/4 cup of cilantro to the processor. Pulse the mixture until it is coarse but combined. You want it a bit chunky, not smooth. Now, add 1 teaspoon each of cumin and coriander, 1/2 teaspoon baking soda, 1 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper. Pulse again until mixed. Transfer this mixture into a bowl and stir in 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour. Mix well until everything is combined.
Air Frying Tips for Optimal Crispiness
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Shape the falafel into small balls or patties, about 1-2 inches wide. Spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray. Arrange the falafel in a single layer. Make sure they do not touch each other. Spray the tops lightly with cooking spray for extra crispiness. Air fry for 12-15 minutes. Flip them halfway through to ensure even cooking. Once they are golden brown and crispy, remove them from the air fryer. Let them cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your crispy falafel!
Tips & Tricks
How to Achieve the Best Texture
For crispy falafel, the texture is key. I recommend using soaked dried chickpeas instead of canned ones. Soaking helps them maintain a firm bite. When you mix your ingredients, pulse just enough to create a coarse mixture. This keeps the falafel from being too smooth. Also, add in a bit of flour. It helps bind the mixture and gives a nice crunch. Lastly, make sure to space the falafel in the air fryer. This allows hot air to circulate and crisp them up evenly.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One big mistake is over-processing the chickpeas. If you blend too long, the mixture turns mushy. You want some texture for that perfect bite. Another mistake is not preheating the air fryer. A hot fryer gives a better crispy finish. Avoid overcrowding the basket. If the falafel touch, they won’t cook evenly. Lastly, don’t skip the cooking spray. It’s crucial for getting that golden color and crunchy texture.
Recommended Dipping Sauces or Pairings
Falafel pairs well with many sauces. A classic tahini sauce is a great choice. It adds a nutty flavor that complements the spices. You can also serve it with a cooling yogurt dip. Just mix yogurt with lemon juice and garlic for extra zing. For a fresh touch, try a simple herb salsa. Chopped tomatoes, onions, and herbs make a bright side. Lastly, serve your falafel with warm pita and a crisp salad. This makes a delicious, complete meal!
Pro Tips
- Soak Chickpeas Properly: Ensure your dried chickpeas soak for at least 8 hours or overnight to achieve the perfect texture and prevent them from being too hard after cooking.
- Don't Over-Process: When blending the falafel mixture, pulse just until it's combined. A slightly chunky texture will give your falafel a better bite and prevent them from becoming mushy.
- Adjust Seasonings: Feel free to tweak the spices according to your taste. Adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika can give your falafel an extra kick!
- Check Crispiness: Air fryers vary in power; check your falafel a couple of minutes before the recommended time to ensure they are perfectly crispy without burning.
Variations
Adding Extra Spices for Flavor
You can boost your falafel with extra spices. Try adding paprika for a smoky taste. A pinch of cayenne pepper adds heat if you like spice. You can also use dried herbs like oregano or thyme. Each spice gives a new twist to your falafel.
Vegan or Gluten-Free Adjustments
This recipe is already vegan since it uses no animal products. To make it gluten-free, swap out all-purpose flour for chickpea flour. This keeps the texture right while keeping it safe for those with gluten issues. You can still enjoy crispy falafel without the gluten.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your falafel in many ways. You can place them in warm pita bread with fresh veggies. Add tahini sauce or yogurt for a creamy touch. They work great as a salad topping, too. Pair with hummus and fresh herbs for a colorful plate. Enjoy the crispy goodness any way you like!
Storage Info
Storing Leftover Falafel
After you make your crispy falafel, let it cool completely. Store any leftovers in an airtight container. Place a piece of paper towel in the container to absorb moisture. This helps keep your falafel crispy. You can keep them in the fridge for up to four days.
Reheating Techniques for Best Results
To reheat your falafel, use the air fryer for the best texture. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the falafel in a single layer and heat for about 5-7 minutes. This will help them regain their crispiness. You can also use a skillet over medium heat. Just add a little oil and heat for 3-4 minutes on each side.
Freezing Instructions for Meal Prep
Freezing falafel is simple and smart for meal prep. Shape the falafel balls and place them on a baking sheet. Freeze them for about an hour until firm. Then, transfer them to a freezer bag or container. They can last for up to three months in the freezer. When you're ready to eat, cook them straight from frozen in the air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes.
FAQs
How do I make falafel crispy in the air fryer?
To make falafel crispy, the key is to use less moisture. Start with soaked dried chickpeas, not canned ones. When blending, pulse the mix until it is coarse but not mushy. This keeps air pockets that help crisp up during cooking. Lightly spray the falafel with cooking spray before air frying. This adds a nice crunch. Don't overcrowd the air fryer basket; space them out to allow air to flow around. Air fry at 375°F for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway for even crispiness.
Can I use canned chickpeas instead of dried?
Yes, you can use canned chickpeas, but they will give a different texture. Canned chickpeas have more moisture, which can lead to softer falafel. If you use them, drain and rinse them well. You may need to adjust the flour amount to help bind the mixture. Start with 2 tablespoons and add more if needed until the mixture holds together.
What can I serve with falafel?
Falafel pairs well with many sides. Here are some great options:
- Tahini sauce for drizzling
- Creamy yogurt or vegan yogurt
- Fresh salad with cucumbers and tomatoes
- Warm pita bread for wrapping
- Pickled vegetables for a tangy bite
- Hummus for extra flavor and creaminess
These sides enhance the falafel's taste and make for a balanced meal. Enjoy your crispy falafel with these delicious pairings!
In this post, we explored how to make falafel, from ingredient selection to storage tips. Fresh herbs enhance flavor, while substitutions make it easier to customize. You learned how to prepare chickpeas and mix the perfect batter for air frying, ensuring crispy results. We covered common mistakes and flavorful variations, plus great dipping sauces. Store leftovers well and reheat for best taste. Making falafel can be simple and fun, and you'll enjoy experimenting with it. Enjoy your cooking journey and share your falafel creations!
