Crispy Air Fryer Falafel (Print)
Golden-crisp chickpea patties with fresh herbs and warm spices, perfectly air fried in minutes for a healthier Mediterranean treat.
# Ingredients:
→ Main Components
01 -
1 cup dried chickpeas
02 -
1 small yellow or white onion, roughly chopped
03 -
3 garlic cloves
04 -
1/2 cup fresh parsley, packed and finely chopped
05 -
1/2 cup fresh cilantro, packed and finely chopped
→ Seasonings
06 -
1 tsp ground cumin
07 -
1 tsp ground coriander
08 -
1/2 tsp salt
09 -
1/4 tsp black pepper
10 -
1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
11 -
1 tbsp olive oil
# Directions:
01 -
Drain soaked chickpeas thoroughly and pat dry with paper towels. Add chickpeas to food processor with onion, garlic, herbs, and spices. Pulse 10-15 times in one-second intervals until mixture is coarse and crumbly with visible chickpea pieces, scraping down sides as needed. Texture should resemble damp sand with small chickpea pieces still visible.
02 -
Transfer mixture to a bowl and incorporate lemon juice and olive oil. Using a small cookie scoop (approximately 1.5 tbsp), portion the mixture. Slightly wet hands before rolling into small balls or flattened patties. If mixture is too dry to hold shape, add another teaspoon of olive oil; if too wet, incorporate a sprinkle of chickpea flour.
03 -
Preheat air fryer to 190°C (375°F). Arrange falafel in a single layer in the basket, ensuring they don't touch. Lightly spray with olive oil for enhanced browning. Cook for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through cooking time. Falafel are done when exterior is golden brown and aromatic. Allow to rest for 1 minute before serving to firm up.
# Notes:
01 -
Properly soaked chickpeas are essential for authentic texture; avoid using canned chickpeas which create mushy falafel.
02 -
Cilantro can be omitted for those who dislike its flavor without compromising the dish.