How To Make Falafel In Air Fryer

Are you a fan of falafel but worried about deep-frying at home? Fear not, because an air fryer can give you crispy and delicious falafel without the hazards of hot oil.

In this article, we will guide you through the process of making falafel in an air fryer, so you can enjoy this Middle Eastern delicacy without any worry.

First, we will show you how to prepare the falafel mixture using chickpeas, herbs, and spices. Then, we will teach you how to form the falafel balls and preheat the air fryer.

You'll learn how to check and flip the falafel to ensure that they are perfectly cooked and crunchy. Finally, we will show you how to serve and enjoy your air fryer falafel with your favorite dipping sauce.

With our step-by-step guidance, you can have a safe and delicious falafel experience in the comfort of your own home.

Takeaways Ready To Go!

• Preparation of falafel mixture using chickpeas, herbs, and spices is key to making delicious falafel in an air fryer.
• Tightly pressing the mixture together when forming falafel balls is crucial to prevent them from falling apart during cooking.
• Flipping the falafel balls halfway through cooking time and checking for even cooking will ensure they are cooked properly.
• Assembling the falafel sandwich with lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, hummus, tahini sauce, and hot sauce or garlic sauce will enhance the flavor of the dish.

Preparing the Falafel Mixture

Now it's time to start mixin'! Grab a large bowl and add in your chickpeas, onion, garlic, parsley, cumin, coriander, salt, and pepper.

Make sure all the ingredients are evenly distributed in the bowl. Next, use a fork or potato masher to mash the chickpeas. You want them to be mashed but still have some texture.

Once everything is well-mixed, it's time to start forming the falafel balls.

Forming the Falafel Balls

First, you'll need to get your hands a little messy by scooping out the falafel mixture and forming it into perfectly round balls. To do this, simply take a small amount of the mixture and gently roll it between your palms until it forms a smooth ball. Make sure to press the mixture tightly together to prevent the falafel balls from falling apart during cooking.

Once you have formed all of the falafel balls, it's time to preheat your air fryer and get ready to cook them. But before we move on to that, make sure to wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water to prevent any cross-contamination.

Now, let's move on to the next step of preheating and using the air fryer.

Preheating and Using the Air Fryer

To properly cook your delicious falafel balls, you'll need to ensure that your cooking device is heated up and ready to go. So, why don't you take a moment to preheat your air fryer and get it nice and hot? This is an essential step in the process to ensure that your falafel balls are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.

Preheating your air fryer will take approximately 3-5 minutes, so be sure to factor in this time into your cooking process.

Once your air fryer is preheated, it's time to start cooking your falafel balls. Place the falafel balls in the air fryer basket, making sure to leave enough space between them for even cooking.

Set the air fryer to 375°F and cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping the falafel balls halfway through the cooking time. This will ensure that they are evenly cooked and crispy on all sides.

Now that your falafel balls are cooking, let's move on to the next step of checking and flipping them.

Checking and Flipping the Falafel

Make sure to keep an eye on your delicious falafel balls as they cook in the air fryer, and when the timer goes off, you'll need to quickly flip them over for even cooking on both sides.

Using a pair of tongs, gently turn each falafel ball over and put them back in the air fryer. Don't worry if they stick a bit, just be gentle and they should release easily.

Set the timer for another 5-7 minutes, depending on how crispy you like your falafel.

While the falafel cooks, you can start preparing your toppings and sauces.

Chop up some fresh veggies, mix up a yogurt sauce or tahini dressing, and get your pita bread ready.

Once the falafel is done cooking, take them out of the air fryer and let them cool for a minute or two.

Then, assemble your falafel sandwich with all your favorite toppings and enjoy!

Serving and Enjoying Your Air Fryer Falafel

Now that your crispy and delicious falafel balls are ready, it's time for you to grab your pita bread and start assembling your perfect falafel sandwich.

Start by slicing open the pita bread and stuffing it with some fresh lettuce, tomatoes, and diced cucumbers. Then, add in a generous spoonful of hummus and tahini sauce for that creamy texture. Finally, place 3-4 falafel balls inside the pita, and drizzle some hot sauce or garlic sauce on top for some added flavor.

As you take your first bite, savor the crunchiness of the falafel and the burst of flavors from the vegetables and sauces. Enjoy the satisfaction of having made a healthy and delicious meal in the comfort of your own home.

Remember to always wash your hands and follow proper food safety guidelines when cooking. Bon appétit!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use canned chickpeas instead of dried ones for the falafel mixture?

Yes, you can use canned chickpeas for your falafel mixture. Just make sure to drain and rinse them thoroughly before using. This will give you a convenient and tasty option for your falafel cravings with minimal effort. Enjoy!

How long can I store the uncooked falafel mixture in the fridge before cooking?

You can store uncooked falafel mixture in the fridge for up to two days before cooking. Remember to keep it covered and refrigerated to prevent bacteria growth. Enjoy your delicious and safe falafel!

Can I freeze the uncooked falafel balls for later use?

Yes, you can freeze the uncooked falafel balls for later use. Just make sure to seal them air-tight and use within 2-3 months. Thaw them before cooking in the air fryer for best results. Enjoy a safe and delicious meal!

What dipping sauce pairs well with air fryer falafel?

Looking for the perfect dip to pair with your air fryer falafel? Try a creamy tahini sauce or a tangy tzatziki. These classic Mediterranean sauces will add the perfect flavor to your crispy and delicious falafel. Enjoy!

Can I use a different type of bean instead of chickpeas for the falafel mixture?

Yes, you can use other beans like black beans or kidney beans instead of chickpeas in the falafel mixture. Just make sure to adjust the seasoning accordingly. Always check for allergies and safety precautions before trying new recipes.

Conclusion

Congratulations! You've successfully made your very own delicious falafel using an air fryer. It's a healthier and easier alternative to traditional frying, without sacrificing taste and texture.

Now, it's time to enjoy the fruits of your labor. To serve, you can pair your air fryer falafel with pita bread, hummus, tzatziki sauce, and fresh vegetables like tomatoes, cucumbers, and lettuce. You can also add some hot sauce or pickles for an extra kick.

Don't forget to share with your friends and family, or keep them all to yourself. Either way, you can be proud of your homemade air fryer falafel that's crispy on the outside and soft on the inside.