Easy Greek Falafel in the Air Fryer – Crispy, Flavorful, and Guilt-Free

Falafel is a beloved and flavorful dish that has found its way into the hearts (and stomachs) of people worldwide.

Originally hailing from the Middle East, falafel has become a popular choice for those seeking a delicious vegetarian or vegan option. Whether enjoyed as a snack, part of a main meal, or in a wrap, falafel combines rich, earthy flavors with a satisfying crunch, making it a go-to comfort food for many.

What is Falafel? A Quick Overview

Falafel is a deep-fried ball or patty made primarily from ground chickpeas or fava beans, along with a mix of herbs, spices, and onions.

The mixture is typically flavored with ingredients like garlic, cumin, coriander, parsley, and sometimes a dash of chili for heat. The result is a golden-brown, crispy exterior with a tender, flavorful interior.

This dish is often served in pita bread or flatbread, accompanied by fresh vegetables like tomatoes, cucumbers, and lettuce, and topped with a variety of sauces like tahini or yogurt.

Its versatility and delicious combination of textures make falafel not just a meal but an experience that appeals to a wide range of tastes and dietary preferences.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Greek Air Fryer Falafel

To make the perfect Greek-style air fryer falafel, you’ll need a mix of fresh, fragrant ingredients. Here’s a list of what you’ll need to get started:

• Chickpeas (garbanzo beans) – The base of your falafel, providing a hearty texture.
• Fresh parsley – Adds a burst of color and freshness to the mix.
• Fresh cilantro – Brings a slightly citrusy note that balances the richness of the chickpeas.
• Garlic cloves – For a savory kick.
• Red onion – Gives a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor.
• Ground cumin – The earthy, warm spice that is essential in falafel.
• Ground coriander – Complements the cumin with a citrusy and slightly spicy flavor.
• Dried oregano – A Greek-inspired touch to enhance the Mediterranean flavor profile.
• Salt and pepper – For seasoning and balancing the flavors.
• Baking powder – Helps create a lighter texture for the falafel.
• Flour (or chickpea flour) – To bind the ingredients together and achieve the right consistency.
• Olive oil spray – To ensure a crisp finish when air frying.

These ingredients will work together to create the light, crisp texture and bold flavors that make this falafel stand out.

How to Make Greek Air Fryer Falafel (Step-by-Step)

Step 1: Prepare the Chickpeas

Start by soaking dried chickpeas overnight in water. This is a crucial step, as it helps soften the chickpeas and ensures they blend well. If you’re short on time, you can use canned chickpeas, but be sure to drain and rinse them thoroughly.

Step 2: Blend the Ingredients

In a food processor, add the soaked chickpeas, parsley, cilantro, onion, garlic, cumin, coriander, oregano, salt, and pepper. Pulse everything until the mixture is coarsely chopped but not pureed – you want some texture in the falafel. If the mixture feels too dry, add a small splash of water, but be cautious not to make it too wet.

Step 3: Add the Flour and Baking Powder

Once your chickpea mixture is well combined, add the flour and baking powder. These ingredients will help bind the falafel and give it a light, airy texture. Pulse again to incorporate them evenly into the mixture.

Step 4: Chill the Mixture

To make shaping the falafel easier and ensure they hold together during cooking, refrigerate the mixture for at least 30 minutes. Chilling helps the flavors meld and firms up the dough.

Step 5: Shape the Falafel

Once chilled, use your hands to form the mixture into small balls or patties, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. You can use a falafel scoop or just your hands to shape them, ensuring they are compact but not too tight.

Step 6: Preheat the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes. This ensures that the falafel cook evenly and crisp up nicely.

Step 7: Air Fry the Falafel

Lightly spray the air fryer basket with olive oil spray. Arrange the falafel in a single layer, leaving a little space between each one. Air fry the falafel for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

Once the falafel are cooked, remove them from the air fryer and let them cool slightly before serving. You can serve them in a pita wrap with fresh veggies, a dollop of tzatziki or tahini, and a squeeze of lemon, or enjoy them as part of a mezze platter.

Tips for the Best Greek Air Fryer Falafel

To ensure your Greek air fryer falafel turns out crispy, flavorful, and perfectly cooked, here are a few helpful tips:

• Use dried chickpeas – While canned chickpeas can work, using dried chickpeas that you soak overnight will give your falafel a better texture. They hold together better and have a firmer consistency.
• Don’t over-process – When blending the ingredients, make sure not to over-process the mixture. You want it to have some texture, so pulse the food processor until it’s coarsely chopped. This will help maintain that perfect falafel bite.
• Chill the mixture – Chilling the falafel mixture for at least 30 minutes (or even up to a few hours) is key to ensuring they hold their shape and don’t fall apart during cooking. The colder the mixture, the firmer it will be when shaping.
• Spray with oil – Even though you’re using an air fryer, spraying the falafel with a little olive oil will help them crisp up beautifully. It also enhances the flavor and gives that golden-brown exterior.
• Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket – For the crispiest results, make sure to leave space between the falafel so that air can circulate around them. Cook in batches if necessary, depending on the size of your air fryer.
• Adjust the seasoning – Falafel is all about flavor, so taste the mixture before chilling. Feel free to adjust the garlic, cumin, or coriander to suit your preference. A pinch of chili flakes or lemon zest can also add a unique twist.

Conclusion

Greek air fryer falafel is a healthier and equally delicious alternative to the deep-fried classic. With the right balance of spices, fresh herbs, and a little air-fryer magic, you’ll enjoy crispy, golden falafel with a satisfying texture and mouthwatering flavor. This recipe is not only quick and easy but also adaptable to various dietary needs, making it a fantastic addition to any meal. Whether you’re serving them in a pita, alongside a Greek salad, or as part of a mezze spread, this falafel is sure to impress!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use canned chickpeas instead of dried?

Yes, you can use canned chickpeas, but be sure to drain and rinse them thoroughly. Keep in mind that using dried chickpeas that have been soaked overnight results in a firmer texture and better consistency for the falafel.

2. How do I store leftover falafel?

Leftover falafel can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply pop them back in the air fryer for a few minutes at 350°F (175°C) to crisp them up again.

3. Can I freeze falafel?

Yes! You can freeze uncooked falafel. Simply place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container and store for up to 3 months. When ready to cook, you can air fry them directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

4. Why is my falafel falling apart?

This could be due to the mixture being too wet or not chilled long enough. Make sure the chickpeas are well-drained, the mixture is dry enough to hold together, and that you refrigerate it to firm up before shaping.

5. Can I make falafel without a food processor?

Yes! If you don’t have a food processor, you can mash the chickpeas by hand using a potato masher or a fork. For a finer texture, you can use a blender or a hand chopper to break up the ingredients. It just requires a little more effort!