Healthy Air Fryer Falafel

Name: Healthy Air Fryer Falafel
Prep time: 780 min
Total time: 780 min
Yield: 6
Ingredients: Ingredients:; 8 ounces dried chickpeas (soaked in cold water for at least 12 hours and up to 24 hours, or one 15-ounce can of chickpeas); 1 cup fresh parsley leaves with stems (plus extra for serving); 1/2 cup fresh cilantro leaves with stems; 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves; 3 cloves garlic; 2 scallions (roughly chopped (white and green parts)); 2 tablespoons chickpea flour or all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander; 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper; Juice of 1 lemon; 1 large egg white; Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper; 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder; Olive oil cooking spray (for hands and falafel); 1/2 cup tahini; Pinch Pinch of paprika; 1 clove garlic (grated); Juice of 1 lemon; Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper; 3 whole-wheat pitas; 1 heart romaine (coarsely chopped); 2 plum tomatoes (sliced); 1 Persian cucumber (thinly sliced); Harissa or other hot sauce (for drizzling (optional))

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Healthy Air Fryer Falafel

Are you craving a delicious and healthy version of falafel? Look no further! In this article, we will explore the wonders of air fryer falafel. Not only is it a guilt-free alternative to traditional deep-fried falafel, but it’s also incredibly easy to make. So, let’s dive in and discover how to make this delectable treat!

What is an air fryer?

Before we get into the specifics of air fryer falafel, let’s talk about what an air fryer is. An air fryer is a kitchen appliance that uses hot air circulation to cook food. It mimics the crispy texture of deep-fried food using only a fraction of the oil. This makes it a healthier option for those who want to enjoy their favorite fried foods without the guilt.

Why choose air fryer falafel?

Falafel is a Middle Eastern dish made from ground chickpeas or fava beans. Traditionally, falafel is deep-fried, resulting in a crispy exterior and a soft and flavorful interior. However, deep-frying can add unnecessary calories and unhealthy fats to the dish. By using an air fryer, you can achieve the same crispy texture while significantly reducing the amount of oil used.

How to make air fryer falafel?

Making air fryer falafel is a breeze! Start by soaking your chickpeas overnight to soften them. Then, drain and rinse the chickpeas thoroughly. In a food processor, combine the chickpeas, garlic, onion, parsley, cilantro, cumin, coriander, salt, and pepper. Pulse until everything is well combined, but be careful not to overmix.

Next, form the mixture into small balls or patties. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and lightly brush the falafel with olive oil. Place them in the air fryer basket, making sure to leave enough space between each piece for proper air circulation. Cook for about 12-15 minutes, or until the falafel is golden brown and crispy on the outside.

What can you serve with air fryer falafel?

Air fryer falafel can be enjoyed in various ways. You can stuff them in pita bread with some tahini sauce, lettuce, tomatoes, and cucumbers for a classic falafel sandwich. Alternatively, you can serve them on top of a salad, alongside some hummus and tzatziki sauce. The possibilities are endless!

Can air fryer falafel be frozen?

Absolutely! One of the great things about air fryer falafel is that you can make a big batch and freeze them for later. Once the falafel has cooled, place them in an airtight container or freezer bag and store them in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply pop them in the air fryer for a quick reheating.

What are the benefits of air fryer falafel?

Air fryer falafel offers several benefits. First and foremost, it is a healthier alternative to traditional deep-fried falafel. By using an air fryer, you can significantly reduce the amount of oil used without sacrificing taste and texture. Additionally, air fryer falafel is quick and easy to make, making it a perfect option for busy individuals or those who want a fuss-free cooking experience.

Are there any variations of air fryer falafel?

Yes, there are plenty of variations you can try to customize your air fryer falafel. You can add different herbs and spices to the mixture, such as paprika, turmeric, or cayenne pepper, to give it a unique flavor. You can also experiment with using different types of beans, like black beans or lentils, instead of chickpeas. The possibilities are endless, so don’t be afraid to get creative!

Can you use canned chickpeas for air fryer falafel?

Absolutely! While soaking and cooking dried chickpeas is the traditional method, using canned chickpeas is a convenient alternative. Simply drain and rinse the canned chickpeas before using them in the recipe. The texture may be slightly different, but the taste will still be delicious!

How do you store leftover air fryer falafel?

If you have any leftover air fryer falafel, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply pop them back in the air fryer for a few minutes until warmed through. They may not be as crispy as when freshly cooked, but they will still be tasty!

Conclusion

Air fryer falafel is a healthier and equally delicious alternative to traditional deep-fried falafel. By using an air fryer, you can enjoy the crispy texture and flavorful interior without the guilt of excess oil. Whether you serve it in a pita sandwich, on top of a salad, or as a snack, air fryer falafel is sure to satisfy your cravings. So, give it a try and taste the magic of this nutritious and tasty dish!

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use a different type of bean for air fryer falafel?

A: Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different types of beans, such as black beans or lentils, to create your own unique falafel.

Q: Can I make gluten-free air fryer falafel?

A: Yes, you can! Simply substitute regular flour with a gluten-free flour, such as chickpea flour or almond flour, to make it suitable for a gluten-free diet.

Q: Can I make air fryer falafel without oil?

A: While a small amount of oil is recommended to achieve a crispy exterior, you can try using a cooking spray or brushing the falafel with water for a lower-fat option.

Q: How many calories are in air fryer falafel?

A: The number of calories in air fryer falafel will depend on the specific ingredients and portion size. However, compared to deep-fried falafel, air fryer falafel generally contains fewer calories due to the reduced amount of oil used.

Q: Can I make air fryer falafel ahead of time?

A: Absolutely! Air fryer falafel can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator or freezer for later use. Simply reheat them in the air fryer when you’re ready to enjoy.

Healthy Air Fryer Falafel

Prep13 hr

Total13 hr

Servings6

Ingredients:
8 ounces dried chickpeas (, soaked in cold water for at least 12 hours and up to 24 hours, or one 15-ounce can of chickpeas)
1 cup fresh parsley leaves with stems (, plus extra for serving)
1/2 cup fresh cilantro leaves with stems
1/4 cup fresh mint leaves
3 cloves garlic
2 scallions (, roughly chopped (white and green parts))
2 tablespoons chickpea flour or all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
Juice of 1 lemon
1 large egg white
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
Olive oil cooking spray (for hands and falafel)
1/2 cup tahini
Pinch Pinch of paprika
1 clove garlic (, grated)
Juice of 1 lemon
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
3 whole-wheat pitas
1 heart romaine (, coarsely chopped)
2 plum tomatoes (, sliced)
1 Persian cucumber (, thinly sliced)
Harissa or other hot sauce (, for drizzling (optional))

Drain the chickpeas thoroughly and place them on a baking sheet lined with a towel to dry completely.
Using a food processor, pulse together the parsley, cilantro, mint, garlic, and scallions until they are roughly chopped and combined.
Add the chickpeas, flour, cumin, coriander, cayenne, lemon juice, egg white, 2 teaspoons of salt, and a few grinds of black pepper to the food processor. Pulse the mixture until it forms a coarse meal that is well combined but not smooth or mushy.
Refrigerate the mixture for 15 minutes, then stir in the baking powder.
Spray your hands with olive oil cooking spray. Take about 2 tablespoons of the chickpea mixture and shape it into a ball. Flatten the ball slightly to create a thick patty. Repeat this process to make a total of 18 patties.
Spray both sides of the patties with olive oil spray. Arrange the patties in a single layer in the basket of a 6-quart air fryer. If necessary, cook them in batches.
Cook the patties in the air fryer at 400 degrees F, flipping them halfway through, until they are golden and crisp. This process should take about 12 to 15 minutes.
To make the tahini sauce, whisk together the tahini, paprika, garlic, lemon juice, 1

Beans and Legumes, Falafel Recipes, Healthy, Heart-Healthy, High Fiber, Low-Cholesterol, Low-Fat