# Irresistible Air Fry Falafel Recipe: A Healthy Twist on a Classic Snack
## Introduction to Air Fry Falafel RecipeFalafel is a beloved Middle Eastern dish made from ground chickpeas or fava beans, seasoned with herbs and spices……
## Introduction to Air Fry Falafel Recipe
Falafel is a beloved Middle Eastern dish made from ground chickpeas or fava beans, seasoned with herbs and spices, and traditionally deep-fried to golden perfection. However, with the rise of health-conscious eating, many are seeking alternatives that maintain flavor while reducing calories and fat. Enter the air fry falafel recipe—this innovative cooking method allows you to enjoy crispy, delicious falafel without the guilt of deep frying.
## Why Choose Air Frying?
Air frying is a cooking technique that circulates hot air around food to create a crispy exterior, mimicking the texture of deep-frying but using significantly less oil. This method not only cuts down on calories but also retains more nutrients in the food. By using an air fryer, you can enjoy falafel that is crunchy on the outside and tender on the inside, all while being a healthier option.
## Ingredients for Air Fry Falafel Recipe
To make a scrumptious air fry falafel, you'll need the following ingredients:
- **1 cup dried chickpeas** (soaked overnight)
- **1 small onion**, chopped
- **2 cloves garlic**, minced
- **1/4 cup fresh parsley**, chopped
- **1/4 cup fresh cilantro**, chopped
- **1 tsp cumin**
- **1 tsp coriander**
- **1/2 tsp baking powder**
- **Salt and pepper to taste**
- **Olive oil spray** (for cooking)
These ingredients come together to create a flavorful mixture that can be shaped into balls or patties and cooked in your air fryer.
## Step-by-Step Instructions
### 1. Prepare the Chickpeas
Start by draining and rinsing the soaked chickpeas. Make sure they are well-drained to avoid excess moisture in your mixture.
### 2. Blend the Ingredients
In a food processor, combine the chickpeas, chopped onion, garlic, parsley, cilantro, cumin, coriander, baking powder, salt, and pepper. Pulse until the mixture is well combined but still has some texture. Avoid over-blending, as you want to maintain some chunkiness for a better bite.
### 3. Shape the Falafel
Using your hands, form the mixture into small balls or patties, about the size of a golf ball. If the mixture is too crumbly, you can add a tablespoon of water to help bind it together.
### 4. Preheat the Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes. This step ensures that your falafel will cook evenly and develop a crispy texture.
### 5. Air Fry the Falafel
Lightly spray the air fryer basket with olive oil to prevent sticking. Place the falafel in a single layer, making sure they are not touching. Spray the tops lightly with olive oil. Cook for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden brown and crispy.
## Serving Suggestions
Air fry falafel can be served in various ways. Consider placing them in a pita with fresh veggies, tahini sauce, and a sprinkle of sumac for a delicious wrap. Alternatively, serve them on a salad for a nutritious meal or as a snack with hummus or tzatziki sauce.
## Conclusion
This air fry falafel recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy a classic dish with a healthier twist. With its crispy exterior and flavorful interior, it’s sure to be a hit with everyone. Plus, making falafel at home allows you to control the ingredients and customize the flavors to your liking. Give this recipe a try, and you’ll never look at falafel the same way again!