Description
Are you tired of indulging in deep-fried foods that leave you feeling sluggish and guilty? Discovering a healthier alternative can sometimes feel overwhelming, but what if I told you that a crispy, delicious Air Fryer falafel can be made with minimal oil and maximum flavor? This recipe not only satisfies your taste buds but also offers a great way to incorporate plant-based protein into your diet. Dive into this guide to learn how to make Air Fryer falafel that’s sure to impress!
Ingredients
To create those oh-so-crispy Air Fryer falafel bites, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 cup dried chickpeas (soaked overnight)
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2–3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup fresh parsley, chopped (or cilantro for a different flavor)
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp ground coriander
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2–3 tbsp olive oil (or a spray oil for lighter cooking)
Instructions
• Step 1: Soak the Chickpeas
Begin by soaking 1 cup of dried chickpeas in water overnight. This process not only softens the legumes but also enhances their digestibility.
• Step 2: Make the Falafel Mixture
Once soaked, drain and rinse the chickpeas. In a food processor, combine the chickpeas, chopped onion, minced garlic, parsley, cumin, coriander, baking powder, salt, and pepper. Pulse the mixture until it is well combined but still slightly chunky.
Tip: Do not over-process; you want the texture to be grainy, not pureed.
• Step 3: Form the Falafel Balls
Transfer the mixture to a bowl. Use your hands to form small balls or patties, about the size of a golf ball. This recipe will yield approximately 12–15 falafel balls.
• Step 4: Preheat the Air Fryer
Preheat your Air Fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes. This step ensures your falafel cooks evenly and develops that sought-after crispy exterior.
• Step 5: Spray and Cook
Lightly coat the falafel balls with olive oil spray for better crispiness. Place them in the Air Fryer basket in a single layer, making sure they are not overcrowded. Cook for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through the cooking time for even browning.
Notes
Tip: For extra crispiness, you can increase the temperature to 400°F (205°C) for the last 2-3 minutes.
Nutrition
- Calories: 120
- Fat: 4g (mostly healthy fats)
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 5g