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vegan Air Fryer Falafel Recipe

Easy Air Fryer Falafel Vegan

Are you a fan of falafel but tired of looking for a healthier choice that's not deep-fried? Look no further than this vegan air fryer falafel recipe!
5 from 5 votes
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Resting Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Course Lunch, Main, Main Course, Side Dish, Snack
Cuisine Lebanese, Mediterranean, Middle Eastern, Vegan
Servings 15 falafel balls

Ingredients
  

  • 1 15oz can chickpeas, rinsed and drained
  • ½ large yellow onion, finely diced
  • 4 cloves minced garlic
  • 1 cup roughly chopped parsley
  • 1 cup roughly chopped cilantro
  • ¼ cup roughly chopped fresh dill (sub 1 tbsp dried dill)
  • 1 tbsp fresh squeezed lemon juice
  • 2 tbsp cumin
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 1 tbsp salt
  • ½ cup chickpea flour (sub all-purpose flour)

Instructions
 

  • Add all ingredients, excluding the chickpea flour to a high powered blender or food processor.
  • Pulse the food processor repeatedly until the texture resembles coarse sand. It should not be pureed.
  • Add the falafel mixture to a mixing bowl then add in the chickpea flour. Mix well to combine, cover, and place in the fridge for at least 45 minutes.
  • Form the falafel mixture into about 15 falafel balls. If the dough seems too wet, add a little flour to your hands or to the mixture 1 tsp at a time.
  • Grease the air fryer tray with an olive oil spray. (Optional: lightly spray the falafel balls with olive oil.)
  • Make sure there is space between each falafel ball. You may have to cook the falafel balls in 2 separate batches. Air fry at 375 degrees for 12-15 minutes. Check on them to make sure they a browned all around, but not burnt.
  • Serve falafel balls immediately while they are warm and crispy on the outside. They pair perfectly with a tahini sauce, or on a pita with veggies and tzatziki!

Video

Notes

    • Make sure to drain and pat dry the chickpeas thoroughly to prevent excess moisture in the mixture.
    • Don't over-process the mixture, as it can become too smooth and affect the texture of the falafel.
    • Adjust the spices to your liking. If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of cumin, coriander, and cayenne pepper.
    • Leftover falafel can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

      Baking

      1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
      2. Place the falafel balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Lightly spray or brush them with olive oil.
      3. Bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping the falafel halfway through, until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside.
      4. Serve immediately while warm and crispy.

      Pan Frying

      1. Heat a generous amount of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
      2. Once the oil is hot, add the falafel balls, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. You may need to do this in batches.
      3. Fry the falafel balls for about 3-4 minutes on each side, until they are golden brown and crispy.
      4. Transfer the cooked falafel to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
      5. Serve immediately while warm and crispy.

      Deep Frying

      1. Heat enough oil in a deep fryer or a large pot to cover the falafel balls. The oil should reach a temperature of 350°F (175°C).
      2. Carefully lower the falafel balls into the hot oil in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pot.
      3. Fry the falafel balls for about 2-3 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy.
      4. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the falafel to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
      5. Serve immediately while warm and crispy.
Note: Nutritional information is approximate values and can vary significantly depending on the specific brands of ingredients used. Disclaimer: This information is for general guidance only and should not be considered professional nutritional advice.

Nutrition

Serving: 25g | Calories: 60kcal | Carbohydrates: 10g | Protein: 4g | Fat: 2g | Saturated Fat: 0.75g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.5g | Monounsaturated Fat: 0.75g | Sodium: 125mg | Potassium: 75mg | Fiber: 1.5g | Sugar: 0.5g | Vitamin A: 7.5IU | Vitamin C: 7.5mg | Calcium: 7.5mg | Iron: 1.5mg
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