Description:
These air fryer falafel balls are golden, crispy, and packed with traditional Middle Eastern flavors. Made with chickpeas, fresh herbs, and spices, they’re perfect for stuffing into pita bread, serving on a salad, or enjoying with a dipping sauce.
Preparation Time:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Serves: 4 people
Ingredients:
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed (or 1½ cups cooked chickpeas)
- 1 small onion, roughly chopped
- 2 garlic cloves
- ½ cup fresh parsley
- ½ cup fresh cilantro
- 3 tbsp all-purpose flour or chickpea flour
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp ground coriander
- ½ tsp paprika
- ½ tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for brushing)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Falafel Mixture:
- In a food processor, combine chickpeas, onion, garlic, parsley, cilantro, cumin, coriander, paprika, baking powder, salt, and pepper.
- Pulse until the mixture is combined but still slightly chunky. Do not over-process.
- Add flour and pulse again until the mixture holds together when shaped.
- Shape the Falafel Balls:
- Use your hands or a small scoop to form the mixture into balls or small patties, about 1½ inches in diameter. Place them on a plate or tray.
- Preheat the Air Fryer:
- Set the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and preheat for 3 minutes.
- Cook the Falafel:
- Lightly brush the falafel balls with olive oil and place them in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
- Cook for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
- Serve:
- Serve warm with tahini sauce, pita bread, and fresh vegetables like cucumbers, tomatoes, and lettuce.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 180
- Protein: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fat: 7g
- Fiber: 5g
- Sugar: 2g
Notes:
- For a spicier flavor, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the mixture.
- The falafel mixture can be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 2 days before cooking.
- For a gluten-free option, use chickpea flour or gluten-free all-purpose flour.
Enjoy these crispy, flavorful falafel balls, made healthier with the air fryer!