The golden crispness of air fryer falafel draws you in with its fresh herb aroma. It offers a satisfying crunch without the guilt of deep frying. These vegan patties blend soaked chickpeas with vibrant parsley and cilantro. They give an earthy, spiced bite that’s both hearty and light. Busy days call for simple wins like this. It’s ready in under an hour of active time once prepped.
I appreciate how air fryer falafel fits seamlessly into weeknight meals or weekend gatherings. It pairs well with salads or wraps for a protein-packed option. Leftovers reheat beautifully. They stay crisp for quick lunches. Friends always rave about the authentic Middle Eastern flavors without the fuss.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Crispy Texture: Enjoy golden, crunchy exteriors from the air fryer method that rival deep-fried versions but with less oil.
- Quick and Healthy: This vegan recipe comes together in about an hour, using simple ingredients for a nutritious appetizer or main.
- Family Friendly: The fresh herbs and spices create bold flavors that appeal to all ages, perfect for busy moms serving versatile Middle Eastern dishes.
- Make-Ahead Ease: Prep the mixture ahead to streamline cooking, ideal for professionals juggling schedules.
Air Fryer Falafel Ingredients
The combination of soaked chickpeas and fresh herbs like parsley and cilantro delivers a bright, authentic Middle Eastern taste. Spices add warm depth without overpowering. Opting for fresh, high-quality ingredients ensures the falafel holds its shape. It bursts with flavor in every bite.
- Dried chickpeas: Provide the hearty, nutty base that forms the tender yet firm patties after soaking.
- Fresh parsley: Adds a fresh, slightly peppery note that brightens the overall herb-forward profile.
- Fresh cilantro: Contributes a citrusy, earthy balance to enhance the vibrant green flecks and aroma.
- Shallot: Offers a mild oniony sharpness for subtle savoriness without dominating the mix.
- Garlic: Infuses a pungent, aromatic punch that ties the spices together for depth.
- Ground cumin: Brings warm, smoky earthiness central to traditional falafel seasoning.
- Ground coriander: Lends a citrusy, nutty undertone that complements the fresh herbs.
- Baking powder: Helps the patties rise slightly for a lighter, airier texture during cooking.
- Sea salt: Seasons the mixture evenly to amplify all flavors without excess.
- Olive oil: Creates a crispy exterior when brushed on, mimicking fried results healthily.
Note: The complete list of ingredients and exact measurements can be found in the printable recipe card at the bottom of the post.
How to Make Air Fryer Falafel
Step 1: Prepare the Chickpeas
Pat the soaked chickpeas completely dry to remove excess moisture. This is essential for the right texture in air fryer falafel. It prevents soggy patties and ensures they crisp up nicely. Soak them for 24 hours in advance. Drain well before starting.
Step 2: Process the Mixture
Add the dried chickpeas, parsley, cilantro, shallot, garlic, cumin, coriander, and salt to a food processor. Pulse until finely ground and the mixture holds together when pressed. Stop short of a smooth paste to maintain some texture. This keeps the falafel flavorful and structurally sound.
Step 3: Chill the Mixture
Transfer the processed mixture to a bowl and stir in the baking powder. Refrigerate for 30 minutes to firm up. This helps the patties hold their shape during forming and cooking. The rest allows flavors to meld gently.
Step 4: Form the Patties
Shape the chilled mixture into small, slightly flattened discs about 1.5 inches in diameter. Work gently to avoid crumbling. Aim for even sizes for uniform cooking. Prepare all patties before moving to the air fryer.
Step 5: Air Fry the Falafel
Lightly grease the air fryer basket and arrange the patties in a single layer without touching. Brush the tops with olive oil. Then air fry at 375°F for 15 minutes. Flip halfway and brush with more oil until golden brown and crisp. Cook in batches if needed to prevent overcrowding.
Pro Tips for Success
- Soak Chickpeas Overnight: Drain and pat dry thoroughly to ensure the mixture binds properly without excess moisture.
- Avoid Overprocessing: Pulse just until the ingredients hold together when pressed, preventing a dense, paste-like result.
- Refrigerate Firmly: Chill the mixture for the full 30 minutes to help patties maintain shape and crisp evenly.
- Brush Oil Generously: Apply olive oil before and after flipping for that golden, crunchy exterior without drying out.
- Cook in Batches: Arrange falafel without touching to allow air circulation for consistent browning.
How to Serve Air Fryer Falafel
Garnishes
I love topping air fryer falafel with a drizzle of tahini sauce for creamy contrast. Or sprinkling fresh chopped parsley and a squeeze of lemon to brighten the warm spices. Pickled red onions add a tangy crunch. It elevates the earthy flavors without much effort.
Side Dishes
Pair these patties with a simple Greek salad of cucumbers, tomatoes, and feta. It offers a refreshing, light accompaniment that balances the richness. Hummus and warm pita bread make for an easy, cozy spread. Busy families can assemble it quickly.
Creative Ways to Present
Tuck air fryer falafel into whole wheat wraps with lettuce and yogurt sauce. It makes portable lunches that feel gourmet yet simple. For gatherings, serve them skewered with cherry tomatoes and olives on a platter. This creates a vibrant, shareable Middle Eastern mezze with golden appeal.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
I store cooked air fryer falafel in an airtight container in the fridge. They keep well for a few days. This makes it easy to grab a quick protein boost during the week. Just ensure they’re cooled completely before sealing to maintain crispness.
Freezing
For longer storage, I freeze uncooked formed patties on a baking sheet until solid. Then transfer to a freezer bag for up to a month. This method saves time on busy days. Thaw in the fridge overnight before air frying as directed.
Reheating
I reheat leftovers in the air fryer at 350°F for 3-5 minutes to restore crunch. Or use the microwave covered with a damp paper towel for 30 seconds if in a rush. The air fryer option prevents sogginess best. Add a light oil brush for extra golden texture.
Print
Crispy Air Fryer Falafel
- Prep Time: 20 minutes (plus 24 hours soaking and 30 minutes chilling)
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes (excluding soaking)
- Yield: 12-15 falafel patties
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Air Fryer
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern
- Diet: Vegan
Description
Crispy and flavorful vegan falafel patties made easily in an air fryer using soaked chickpeas, fresh herbs, and spices for a healthier alternative to deep-fried versions.
Ingredients
- 1 cup dried chickpeas, soaked in water for 24 hours and drained
- 1/2 cup fresh parsley, roughly chopped
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, roughly chopped
- 1 small shallot, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
- Olive oil for brushing
Instructions
- Pat the soaked chickpeas completely dry. This is a critical step for achieving the right texture.
- Place the chickpeas, parsley, cilantro, shallot, garlic, cumin, coriander, and salt into a food processor. Pulse until the mixture is finely ground and holds together when pressed, but ensure it is not a smooth paste.
- Transfer the mixture to a bowl, stir in the baking powder, and refrigerate for 30 minutes to help the patties hold their shape.
- Form the mixture into small, slightly flattened discs, about 1.5 inches in diameter.
- Lightly grease the air fryer basket. Arrange the falafel in a single layer, making sure they do not touch.
- Brush the tops generously with olive oil. Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 15 minutes, flipping them halfway through and brushing with more oil, until they are golden brown and crisp.
Notes
- Soak chickpeas for 24 hours in advance and drain well before use.
- Do not over-process the mixture to avoid a paste-like consistency; it should hold together when pressed.
- Refrigerating the mixture helps the falafel patties maintain their shape during cooking.
- Work in batches if needed to avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket.
- Serve with tahini sauce, pita bread, or in salads for a complete meal.
