Falafel Recipe Canned Chickpeas Air Fryer

Introduction

Falafel is a beloved Middle Eastern dish made from ground chickpeas, herbs, and spices. Traditionally deep-fried, this recipe offers a healthier spin by using an air fryer. With canned chickpeas, you can whip up delicious falafel quickly and easily, making it perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This air fryer recipe is not only healthier but also incredibly quick to make. Using canned chickpeas means no soaking or cooking dried beans, allowing for a faster preparation time. The result is crispy on the outside and tender on the inside falafel that pairs beautifully with tahini sauce or a fresh salad. Plus, it’s a fantastic vegetarian option that even meat lovers will enjoy.

Ingredients

• 1 (15 oz) can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1 small onion, roughly chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp ground coriander
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (more if needed)
• Cooking spray or olive oil for coating

How to Make Falafel Recipe Canned Chickpeas Air Fryer

1. In a food processor, combine the drained chickpeas, parsley, cilantro, onion, garlic, cumin, coriander, salt, black pepper, cayenne pepper (if using), and lemon juice. Pulse until the mixture is well combined but still slightly chunky.
2. Transfer the mixture to a bowl and stir in the flour. If the mixture is too wet, add more flour a tablespoon at a time until it holds together.
3. Form the mixture into small balls or patties, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter.
4. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F.
5. Lightly coat the falafel balls with cooking spray or brush with olive oil to help them crisp up.
6. Place the falafel in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they are not touching.
7. Cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
8. Remove from the air fryer and let them cool slightly before serving.

Expert Tips

For the best flavor, ensure your herbs are fresh and finely chopped. If you don’t have a food processor, you can mash the chickpeas with a fork and mix in the other ingredients by hand. For extra crispiness, you can spray the falafel with a little more oil before cooking.

If you’re not serving immediately, keep the falafel warm in a low oven while you cook the remaining batches.

Variations

This falafel recipe is versatile. You can add other spices like paprika or turmeric for a different flavor profile. For a more decadent version, consider adding feta cheese to the mixture. If you prefer a gluten-free option, substitute the all-purpose flour with chickpea flour.

Storage Instructions

Store leftover falafel in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for about 5 minutes to restore their crispiness. You can also freeze uncooked falafel balls. Just place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer bag. Cook from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use dried chickpeas instead of canned?

Yes, but you will need to soak and cook the dried chickpeas beforehand. Canned chickpeas simplify the process and save time.

Can I bake these falafel instead of using an air fryer?

Absolutely! Preheat your oven to 400°F and bake the falafel on a lined baking sheet for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown.

What can I serve with falafel?

Falafel is delicious served in pita bread with fresh vegetables and tahini sauce. You can also serve it as part of a mezze platter with hummus, baba ganoush, and tabbouleh.

Final Thoughts

This air fryer recipe for falafel using canned chickpeas is a game changer. Not only is it easy to prepare, but it also delivers on flavor and texture without the extra oil of traditional frying. Perfect for a quick meal or a tasty snack, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your home. Enjoy your homemade falafel with your favorite sides, and don’t hesitate to experiment with variations!