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I've finally cracked the code for perfect falafel at home without a deep fryer! After countless attempts to recreate our favorite Mediterranean restaurant's recipe this air fryer version is pure magic. They get so wonderfully crispy on the outside while staying soft and fluffy inside. The first time I made these my husband couldn't believe they weren't deep fried and my kids now request "green patties" for dinner!
Why This Recipe Works Wonders
This isn't just any falafel recipe! That perfect combination of fresh herbs and warm spices makes these taste exactly like the ones from our favorite food truck. Last week when my vegetarian neighbor came over she said these were better than her grandmother's recipe now that's saying something! Best part? No hot oil splatters to clean up and they're ready in minutes.
What You'll Need
- For Perfect Falafel: Two cans of chickpeas, loads of fresh parsley and cilantro, a nice chunk of onion, fresh garlic cloves, warm cumin and coriander, regular flour or chickpea flour, baking powder for fluffiness, olive oil for brushing.
- For That Amazing Sauce: Good quality tahini, thick Greek yogurt, fresh lemons, more garlic because why not, hot water for thinning, salt to taste.
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Let's Start Cooking
- Making The Perfect Mix
- First up grab your food processor this is where the magic happens! Toss in those chickpeas and all those fresh herbs. When you pulse it together the kitchen fills with this amazing aroma. I love watching all those green herbs fleck through the mixture my daughter says it looks like confetti!
- Shaping Our Little Gems
- Here's where we get hands-on! Mix in your flour and baking powder then start forming those patties. I make mine about the size of a golf ball then flatten them slightly. My kids love helping with this part though somehow they always end up nibbling on the mixture!
- Air Fryer Time
- Give your air fryer basket a quick spray then lay those beautiful patties in there. Don't crowd them they need room to get crispy! That sizzle when they start cooking is pure kitchen music.
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Making Them Perfect
Want to know my secrets for the crispiest falafel? Don't overprocess the mixture we want it finely chopped not mushy. A light brush of oil before cooking gives them that gorgeous golden color. And here's my favorite tip let them cool for just a minute after cooking they'll get even crispier! Sometimes I make a double batch because they disappear so fast.
Serving Up Some Joy
Now for the fun part! Warm up some pita bread stuff it with these crispy beauties add fresh veggies and drizzle with that creamy tahini sauce. I love setting up a little falafel bar with different toppings sliced tomatoes cucumbers pickled onions maybe some feta. Everyone gets to build their perfect sandwich and somehow they're always different!
Keeping The Crunch Alive
These little gems keep beautifully! Store them in the fridge and when you're ready for more just pop them back in the air fryer for a few minutes. They crisp right up like they're fresh made. I often make extra for lunch boxes my daughter trades her sandwich for these every time! Sometimes I'll freeze a batch uncooked perfect for those nights when you need dinner in a hurry.
Mix It Up Your Way
Don't be afraid to play with the flavors! Sometimes I add extra garlic because in my kitchen there's no such thing as too much. My spice-loving son likes when I add a pinch more cayenne. Once I threw in some fresh mint leaves absolutely amazing! You can even make them gluten-free with chickpea flour works beautifully. That's what makes cooking fun making each recipe your own!
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Why These Matter
These falafel have become more than just dinner in our house they're our meatless Monday champion! There's something so satisfying about making such a beloved street food right in your own kitchen. My kids are learning to love vegetables in new ways and isn't that what good cooking is all about? Every time someone tries these for the first time their eyes light up with surprise. "This is healthy?" they ask. Yes it is! Whether you're a longtime falafel lover or trying them for the first time these crispy little bites prove that healthy food can be absolutely delicious. And watching people discover that joy that's what makes all the cooking worth it!
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Why shape into discs rather than balls?
Discs work better in the air fryer because they provide more surface area for crisping and cook more evenly than balls. They're also perfect for pita sandwiches.
- → Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, you can store cooked falafel in the fridge for 5-6 days or freeze them for longer storage. Reheat in a 350°F oven until warm and crispy.
- → Why add flour to the mixture?
The flour helps bind the mixture together and prevents the falafel from falling apart during cooking. It also helps create a crispy exterior.
- → Can I use dried chickpeas?
While this recipe uses canned chickpeas for convenience, you can use soaked dried chickpeas. They'll need to be soaked overnight but not cooked.
- → Why is the tahini sauce so thick at first?
Tahini naturally thickens when combined with water-based ingredients like lemon juice. Adding hot water helps thin it to the right consistency.
Conclusion
Falafel is a popular Middle Eastern dish made with chickpeas, herbs, and spices. This air fryer version offers a healthier alternative to traditional deep-fried falafel, providing crispy texture and robust flavors without excess oil.