Healthy Air Fryer Falafel with Canned Chickpeas

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Air Fryer Falafel with Canned Chickpeas is a popular vegetarian dish of Middle East. This delicious Air Fryer Falafel with Canned Chickpeas is made with chickpeas, onions, and different herbs and spices. These falafels are shaped as meatballs.

If you want a fully healthy dish, it’s for you. This Air Fryer Falafel with Canned Chickpeas is fully packed with proteins and nutrients. This recipe also offers a healthier alternative by the use of air fryer rather than deep frying which is not good for health.

Today, we’re making crispy Air Fryer Falafel with Canned Chickpeas. These bite-sized delights are quick and easy to make. With just a few simple ingredients and a dash of spices, you can enjoy restaurant-quality falafel at home in no time.

So, be ready, gather all your ingredients and start making this mouthwatering Air Fryer Falafel with Canned Chickpeas. try our more related recipes such as 3 Ingredient Air Fryer Biscoff Cookies, Air Fryer Chicken Kebab Recipe, Air Fryer Starbucks Cream Cheese Danish, Air Fryer Peanut Butter Oatmeal Cookies (10-minutes)

REASONS TO LOVE THIS RECIPE

  1.  Healthier Alternative: This recipe offers a healthier alternative by utilizing the air fryer. Air frying requires minimal oil, significantly reducing the overall fat content of the falafel while still achieving a crispy exterior.
  2. Convenience and Accessibility: Unlike traditional falafel recipes that require soaking dried chickpeas overnight, using canned chickpeas eliminates this time-consuming step. Canned chickpeas are readily available in most grocery stores and pantry staples for many households, making this recipe incredibly convenient.
  3. Customizable Flavor Profile: Another reason to love this Air Fryer Falafel with Canned Chickpeas recipe is its versatility and ability to be customized to suit individual taste preferences. Whether you prefer your falafel extra spicy, herbaceous, or mild, you can easily adjust the seasonings to create a flavor profile that suits your palate.
  4. Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy the falafel as a standalone appetizer, served alongside a creamy tahini sauce or tangy yogurt-based tzatziki for dipping. Alternatively, incorporate the falafel into wraps or pitas, along with crisp vegetables and your favorite sauces, for a satisfying and portable meal.

INSTRUCTIONS TO MAKE AIR FRYER FALAFEL WITH CANNED CHICKPEAS

REQUIRED INGREDIENTS

  1. Canned Chickpeas: You will need 1 can of canned chickpeas, they are convenient and readily available, canned chickpeas serve as the base of the falafel mixture.
  2. Chopped Onion: You will need ¼ cup chopped onion to add flavor and texture to the falafel mixture.  
  3. Minced Garlic: You will need 2 cloves of minced garlic to provide aromatic depth and complexity to the falafel.
  4. Fresh Parsley: You will need 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley that offers a fresh and herbaceous element to the falafel mixture.
  5. Ground Cumin: You will need 1 tsp ground cumin to impart warm and earthy spice to the falafel.
  6. Ground Coriander: You will need ½ tsp of ground coriander to enhance the flavor profile with citrusy and floral notes.
  7. All-Purpose Flour or Chickpea Flour: You will need 2 tbsp of all-purpose flour which serves as a binder to hold the falafel mixture together.
  8. Salt and Pepper: You will need Seasonings to taste, enhancing the overall flavor of the falafel.
  9. Olive Oil Spray: You will need oil for lightly coating the falafel before air frying, promoting crispiness.

HOW TO MAKE AIR FRYER FALAFEL WITH CANNED CHICKPEAS

Step 1: Prepare the Falafel Mixture

  • In a food processor, combine the canned chickpeas (drained and rinsed), chopped onion, minced garlic, fresh parsley, ground cumin, ground coriander, cayenne pepper (if using), all-purpose flour or chickpea flour, and salt and pepper to taste.
  • Pulse the ingredients until they are well combined but still slightly chunky. Avoid over-processing, as you want some texture in the falafel mixture.

Step 2: Shape the Falafel

  • Using your hands, shape the falafel mixture into small balls or patties, about 1 inch in diameter. Ensure that each falafel is evenly sized for uniform cooking.

Step 3: Preheat the Air Fryer

  • Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 3-5 minutes. Preheating ensures that the air fryer is hot and ready for cooking, resulting in crispier falafel.

Step 4: Lightly Coat the Falafel with Olive Oil

  • Lightly spray or brush the Air Fryer Falafel with olive oil. This helps promote crispiness and ensures that the falafel develop a golden brown exterior during cooking.

Step 5: Air Fry the Falafel

  • Place the shaped falafel in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring that they are not overcrowded. Cook the falafel in batches if necessary.
  • Air fry the falafel at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through the cooking time. This allows the falafel to cook evenly and develop a crispy exterior on all sides.

Step 6: Check for Doneness

  • Once the falafel is golden brown and crispy on the outside, they are ready to be served. You can also check for doneness by inserting a toothpick or fork into the center of a Air Fryer Falafel with Canned Chickpeas – it should come out clean.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

  • Serve the Air Fryer Falafel with Canned Chickpeas hot as a delicious appetizer, snack, or part of a meal. Enjoy them on their own or with your favorite dipping sauce, such as tahini or tzatziki. These Air Fryer Falafel with Canned Chickpeas also pair well with salads, wraps, or pitas for a complete and satisfying meal.

TEMPERATURE INSTRUCTIONS

For perfect Air Fryer Falafel with Canned Chickpeas, preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) before cooking. Arrange the falafel in a single layer in the basket, ensuring they’re not overcrowded. Cook the falafel at the same temperature for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through. This ensures they’re crispy and evenly cooked. Following these temperature instructions guarantees delicious falafel every time!

CONFIDENCE TIPS

  1. To ensure that your falafel cook evenly and develop a crispy exterior, avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket.
  2. Don’t be afraid to get creative with your falafel seasoning. Feel free to adjust the spices and herbs to suit your taste preferences.
  3. To ensure that your Air Fryer Falafel with Canned Chickpeas is cooked to perfection, check for doneness by inserting a toothpick or fork into the center of a falafel.
  4. When shaping your falafel mixture into balls or patties, aim for uniformity in size to ensure even cooking.
  5. Air fryer models can vary in their cooking performance, so don’t hesitate to adjust the cooking time based on your specific appliance.

STORAGE AND REHEATING

Store any leftover Air Fryer Falafel with Canned Chickpeas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

To reheat, simply pop them back in the air fryer for a few minutes until warmed through and crispy.

ADDITIONS

  • Fresh Herbs: Add finely chopped fresh herbs like parsley, cilantro, or mint into the falafel mixture for added freshness and flavor.
  • Sesame Seeds: Sprinkle sesame seeds over the Air Fryer Falafel with Canned Chickpeas before cooking for a nutty flavor and crunchy texture. Toasted sesame seeds can add an extra layer of depth to your falafel.
  • Spice Mix: Experiment with different spice blends to customize the flavor of your falafel. Add a pinch of smoked paprika, ground turmeric, or sumac to the falafel mixture for a unique and aromatic twist.

SUBSTITUTES

  • Chickpea Flour: Instead of using all-purpose flour in the falafel mixture, you can substitute it with chickpea flour (also known as besan).
  • Onion Powder: If you don’t have fresh onions on hand or prefer a milder onion flavor, you can substitute them with onion powder.
  • Alternative Beans: While chickpeas are the traditional base for falafel, you can experiment with different types of beans for a unique twist.

SERVE WITH

  1. A classic accompaniment to falafel, tahini sauce is made from sesame paste, lemon juice, garlic, and water. It’s creamy, tangy, and adds a delightful richness to falafel. Drizzle it over the falafel or serve it on the side for dipping.
  2. Another Middle Eastern staple, hummus is a creamy chickpea dip blended with tahini, lemon juice, garlic, and olive oil.
  3. For a light and refreshing side dish, serve your falafel with tabbouleh salad.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

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

Yes, you can use dried chickpeas, but they require soaking overnight and cooking until tender before using in the falafel mixture.

How do I prevent my falafel from falling apart in the air fryer?

Ensure the falafel mixture is well blended but still slightly chunky. Additionally, chilling the shaped falafel in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before cooking can help them hold their shape.

Can I make the falafel mixture ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the falafel mixture in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Shape and cook the falafel when ready to serve.

Can I freeze air fryer falafel?

Yes, you can freeze cooked falafel for up to 2 months. Allow them to cool completely, then store them in an airtight container or freezer bag. Reheat them in the air fryer or oven until heated through.

How can I make gluten-free falafel?

Substitute all-purpose flour with chickpea flour or another gluten-free flour alternative. Ensure all other ingredients used are also gluten-free.

Can I reheat leftover falafel?

Yes, you can reheat leftover falafel in the air fryer or oven until warmed through and crispy. Alternatively, you can briefly microwave them, though they may not retain their crispiness as well.

Air Fryer Falafel with Canned Chickpeas

Enjoy crispy and flavorful falafel with this easy air fryer recipe. Made with simple ingredients and cooked to perfection in the air fryer, these falafel are healthier than traditional fried versions without compromising on taste.
Print Recipe
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings 3
Calories 100 kcal

Equipment

  • Air Fryer
  • Food processor

Ingredients
  

  • 1 can (15 ounces) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  • 1/4 cup chopped onion
  • 2 cloves garlic ,minced
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1/2 tsp ground coriander
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour or chickpea flour
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Olive oil spray

Instructions
 

  • Prepare the Falafel Mixture:
    In a food processor, combine the drained and rinsed chickpeas, chopped onion, minced garlic, fresh parsley, ground cumin, ground coriander, optional cayenne pepper, flour (all-purpose or chickpea flour), and salt and pepper to taste. Pulse the ingredients until well combined but still slightly chunky. Avoid over-processing, as some texture in the falafel mixture is desired.
  • Shape the Falafel:
    Using your hands, shape the falafel mixture into small balls or patties, each about 1 inch in diameter. Ensure they are evenly sized for consistent cooking.
  • Preheat the Air Fryer:
    Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 3-5 minutes. Preheating ensures that the air fryer is hot and ready for cooking, resulting in crispier falafel.
  • Lightly Coat the Falafel with Olive Oil:
    Lightly spray or brush the shaped falafel with olive oil. This helps promote crispiness and ensures a golden brown exterior during cooking.
  • Air Fry the Falafel
    Place the coated falafel in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Cook in batches if necessary.
  • Check for Doneness:
    Once cooked, the falafel should be golden brown and crispy on the outside and cooked through on the inside. You can check for doneness by inserting a toothpick or fork into the center of a falafel – it should come out clean.
  • Serve and Enjoy:
    Serve the hot air fryer falafel immediately as a delicious appetizer, snack, or part of a meal. Enjoy them on their own or with your favorite dipping sauce, such as tahini, tzatziki, or hummus.

Notes

  • For best results, chill the shaped falafel in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before cooking to help them hold their shape.
  • Customize the seasoning to your taste preferences by adjusting the spices and herbs.
  • Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer or oven until warmed through.
Nutritional Information per Serving:
  • Calories: 100
  • Fat: 2g
  • Carbohydrates: 16g
  • Protein: 5g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Sodium: 190mg

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