Air Fryer Falafel Recipe

Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside—this Air Fryer Falafel Recipe gives you all the deliciousness of traditional falafel without deep frying. Made with chickpeas, fresh herbs, garlic, and warm spices, these protein-packed bites are golden and flavorful with a satisfying crunch. They’re perfect for wraps, salads, bowls, or snacking straight from the basket!

Want recipes like this delivered straight to your inbox? Subscribe now to get the latest culinary creations you’ll love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Crispy Without Frying – All the crunch, none of the mess.
Healthy & High in Protein – Made with whole, plant-based ingredients.
Gluten-Free & Vegan – Naturally fits into many dietary needs.
Freezer Friendly – Make a big batch and store for later.
Versatile – Great in wraps, pita, bowls, or with dips.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1½ cups dried chickpeas (soaked overnight, not canned)
• ½ small red or yellow onion, chopped
• 3 garlic cloves
• 1 cup fresh parsley (packed)
• ½ cup fresh cilantro (packed)
• 1½ tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp ground coriander
• ½ tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• 2 tbsp flour or chickpea flour (add more if needed)
• Cooking spray or light oil for the air fryer

Tools You’ll Need

• Food processor
• Mixing bowl
• Air fryer
• Spoon or cookie scoop
• Parchment paper (optional for shaping)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Soak the Chickpeas

1. Place dried chickpeas in a large bowl and cover with cold water (about 2 inches above the beans).
2. Soak overnight for 12–18 hours.
3. Drain and rinse well. Do not cook the chickpeas.

Step 2: Make the Falafel Mixture
4. In a food processor, combine soaked chickpeas, onion, garlic, parsley, cilantro, cumin, coriander, salt, and pepper.
5. Pulse until the mixture is finely minced and holds together when pressed—do not over-blend into a paste.
6. Transfer to a bowl, mix in baking powder and flour, and let rest for 15–20 minutes.

Step 3: Shape the Falafel
7. Scoop out 1½ tablespoon portions and roll into balls or patties.
8. If the mixture is too loose, add another tablespoon of flour.

Step 4: Air Fry the Falafel
9. Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
10. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with oil.
11. Place falafel in a single layer, not touching. Spray the tops with a little oil.
12. Air fry for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.

Step 5: Serve & Enjoy
13. Serve warm with hummus, tahini sauce, or wrapped in pita with fresh veggies.

Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Falafel
Use Dried Chickpeas – Canned chickpeas are too soft and make mushy falafel.
Don’t Over-Process – Keep some texture for the best falafel consistency.
Let the Mixture Rest – This helps the flavors blend and the mixture bind.
Oil Helps Crisping – A light spray helps create that perfect golden crust.
Make Ahead – Prepare the mixture in advance and refrigerate for up to 2 days before cooking.

Serving Suggestions

• In Pita Wraps: Add lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, and tahini.
• Falafel Bowls: Serve over rice or quinoa with hummus and veggies.
• Snack-Style: Dip in tzatziki, hummus, or garlic sauce.
• Salad Topper: Add a few falafels to your favorite salad for extra protein.

How to Store & Reheat

Storing:
Store cooked falafel in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Freezing:
Freeze uncooked falafel on a tray, then store in a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Air fry directly from frozen, adding 2–3 extra minutes.

Reheating:

• Air Fryer: 350°F (175°C) for 4–5 minutes.
• Oven: 350°F (175°C) for 8–10 minutes.
• Microwave: 30 seconds (note: may lose crispiness).

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use canned chickpeas?
   It’s not recommended—canned beans are too soft and may cause the falafel to fall apart.
2. What flour works best?
   All-purpose or chickpea flour both work well to bind the mixture.
3. How do I know if the mixture is the right texture?
   It should hold together when squeezed, but not be overly wet or mushy.
4. Can I bake these instead?
   Yes—bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
5. What’s the best dip for falafel?
   Tahini sauce, hummus, or yogurt-based dressings pair perfectly.

Final Thoughts
This Air Fryer Falafel Recipe is everything you want in a plant-based dish—crispy, flavorful, and easy to make. Whether you’re looking for a healthy lunch, a satisfying dinner, or a tasty meal prep option, these falafels deliver every time. No frying, no fuss—just delicious Mediterranean flavor in every bite.

Try it out and tell me how you serve your falafel—wrap, bowl, or snack?

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 12 minutes
Cuisine: Middle Eastern

Nutritional Information (Per Serving – 4 falafels):
Calories: 230 | Protein: 10g | Carbohydrates: 28g | Fat: 9g | Fiber: 7g | Sodium: 310mg

Print