If you’re craving a tasty snack that’s both easy and healthy, try my Air Fryer Crispy Falafel Bites! These little gems combine dried chickpeas, fresh herbs, and spices to create a perfect treat. Plus, they cook up crispy and golden thanks to the air fryer. I’ll share all my tips, tricks, and variations to make these bites a hit at your next meal. Let’s get started!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Healthy and Nutritious: These falafel bites are packed with protein and fiber from the chickpeas, making them a wholesome choice for any meal.
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up these delicious bites in no time!
- Versatile Serving Options: They can be served in wraps, salads, or as appetizers, making them perfect for any occasion.
- Crispy Texture: The air fryer gives these falafel a delightful crunch without the excess oil, keeping them light and crispy.
Ingredients
Dried chickpeas and other essential ingredients
To make crispy falafel bites, you need the right base. Start with 1 cup of dried chickpeas. Soak them overnight in water. This step helps them soften and swell. You will also need 1 small onion, chopped roughly, and 2 cloves of garlic, minced. These add a burst of flavor. You will also need 3 tablespoons of all-purpose flour to help bind the mixture.
Fresh herbs and spices
Fresh herbs make your falafel special. Use 1/4 cup of fresh parsley and 1/4 cup of fresh cilantro. Their bright flavors lift the dish. For spices, you need 1 teaspoon each of cumin and coriander. They give the falafel its warm, earthy taste. You can add 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper if you like heat. Don’t forget salt and pepper to taste.
Oil for brushing
Brushing your falafel with oil makes them crispy. Use 2 tablespoons of olive oil for this step. Lightly coat each falafel ball before cooking. This oil helps them brown nicely in the air fryer. It adds rich flavor too.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the chickpeas and vegetable mixture
Start by draining and rinsing your soaked chickpeas. This helps remove any excess salt. Next, put the chickpeas in a food processor. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, parsley, cilantro, cumin, coriander, baking powder, and optional cayenne pepper. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Pulse the mixture until it looks coarse and crumbly. Be careful not to over-blend; you want some texture. After that, transfer the mix to a bowl. Stir in the flour until it’s well mixed. If it feels too wet, add a bit more flour.
Shaping the falafel
Now, refrigerate the mixture for about 30 minutes. This step helps it firm up. Once it’s ready, take it out of the fridge. Shape the mixture into small balls or patties. Aim for the size of a golf ball. This size helps them cook evenly in the air fryer.
Cooking in the air fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Brush each falafel lightly with olive oil. Make sure to coat them on all sides. Place the falafel in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding the basket; it’s best to cook in batches. Air fry the falafel for 12-15 minutes. Flip them halfway through to get that nice golden color. Once they’re crispy and golden outside, remove them and let them cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your homemade crispy falafel bites!
Pro Tips
- Soak Your Chickpeas: Make sure to soak the dried chickpeas overnight to achieve the perfect texture for your falafel.
- Don’t Over-blend: Pulse the mixture until it’s just combined; a coarse texture helps the falafel hold together while frying.
- Chill the Mixture: Refrigerating the falafel mixture for 30 minutes helps to firm it up, making it easier to shape and fry.
- Air Fryer Tips: For best results, ensure the falafel aren’t overcrowded in the air fryer basket to allow for even cooking and crispiness.
Tips & Tricks
Achieving the perfect crispy texture
To make your falafel crispy, use dried chickpeas. Soak them overnight for the best result. Pulse the falafel mix until it’s crumbly, not smooth. This keeps air in the mixture and gives it a great texture. Brush the falafel lightly with oil before cooking, as this helps them crisp up nicely.
Common mistakes to avoid
One mistake is over-blending the ingredients. This can make the falafel too wet. If your mix feels too sticky, add more flour. Also, don’t overcrowd the air fryer. Giving each falafel space allows hot air to circulate, leading to even cooking. Flip them halfway through cooking for an even crispy finish.
Best practices for air frying
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) before adding the falafel. This helps achieve that golden color quickly. Shape the falafel into small patties or balls, about the size of a golf ball. Cook in batches if needed. Monitor closely during the last few minutes to avoid burning.
Variations
Ingredient substitutions
If you’re looking for gluten-free options, you can swap all-purpose flour for chickpea flour. It works well and keeps the falafel tasty. You can also use canned chickpeas instead of dried ones. Just rinse them well and skip the soaking step. For a lighter version, try using less oil or a cooking spray instead of brushing with olive oil.
Flavor variations
You can spice up your falafel with different flavors. Add a teaspoon of smoked paprika for a smoky taste. If you like it hotter, increase the cayenne pepper or add some red pepper flakes. You can also mix in other herbs, like mint or basil, for a unique twist. Experiment with spices like turmeric or garam masala for a fun change.
Serving suggestions
Serve your crispy falafel bites in various ways. A classic choice is to place them in pita bread with fresh veggies and sauce. Try tahini sauce or tzatziki for dipping. You can also enjoy falafel on a salad, topped with tomatoes, cucumber, and a drizzle of lemon juice. For a fun appetizer, serve them on a platter with toothpicks and a variety of dips.
Storage Info
How to store leftover falafel bites
After you enjoy your falafel bites, let them cool completely. Place them in an airtight container. You can store them in the fridge for up to three days. Make sure they are not stacked on top of each other to keep them from getting soggy.
Reheating tips
To reheat falafel, use the air fryer for the best results. Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the falafel in the basket for about 5-7 minutes. This will help them regain their crispy texture. You can also use an oven. Just warm them on a baking sheet for about 10 minutes at 350°F (175°C).
Freezing for future meals
If you want to save falafel for later, freezing is a great option. After they cool, place the falafel in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze them for about an hour until firm. Then, transfer them to a freezer bag. They will last for up to three months. When you are ready to eat them, just reheat them straight from the freezer in the air fryer.
FAQs
How do I know when falafel is cooked properly?
You can tell falafel is done when it turns golden brown. The outside should feel crispy. You can also check the inside; it should be warm and soft. If you want them extra crisp, cook a few minutes more. Trust your instincts and enjoy the smell while they cook!
Can I bake these instead of air frying?
Yes, you can bake falafel bites. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place the falafel on the sheet and lightly brush them with oil. Bake for about 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through. They may not be as crispy but will still taste great.
What is the best sauce to serve with falafel?
Tahini sauce is a classic choice. It is creamy and rich, pairing well with the falafel’s flavor. You can also try tzatziki, which adds a refreshing touch. Both sauces add moisture and taste. Feel free to experiment with your favorite dips!
This article covered making tasty falafel using dried chickpeas, herbs, spices, and oil. You learned step-by-step instructions, tips for crispiness, and common mistakes to avoid. Variations let you customize flavors, while storage info showed you how to keep leftovers.
Falafel can be fun and easy. With practice, you’ll create perfect bites every time. Enjoy sharing this treat with friends and family!
