Top 27 Falafel Air Fryer Recipes [NOT TO MISS]

Falafel, a popular Middle Eastern dish made from ground chickpeas or fava beans, is loved for its crunchy exterior and flavorful interior. Traditionally deep-fried, falafel can also be made healthier by utilizing an air fryer, which requires less oil while still achieving that desirable crispy texture. In this article, we’ll explore 27 mouthwatering falafel air fryer recipes that cater to various tastes and dietary preferences.

Falafel has a rich history, with its origins dating back to ancient Egypt. Over time, it has become a staple in Middle Eastern cuisine and has gained popularity worldwide. Traditionally, falafel is made by grinding soaked chickpeas or fava beans with herbs and spices, forming them into balls or patties, and deep-frying until golden brown.

However, with the rise of air fryers as a healthier alternative to deep-frying, many have adapted traditional falafel recipes to be cooked in this versatile kitchen appliance. Air fryers use hot air circulation to crisp up food with little to no oil, resulting in a lighter and healthier version of your favorite fried foods.

In this collection of falafel air fryer recipes, we’ll explore various flavor profiles and ingredients to suit different preferences. Whether you prefer classic chickpea falafel or want to experiment with unique ingredients, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Top 27 Falafel Air Fryer Recipes

1. Classic Chickpea Falafel

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked chickpeas
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions:

1. In a food processor, combine chickpeas, onion, garlic, parsley, cilantro, cumin, coriander, baking powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Pulse until the mixture is coarse but well combined.
3. Form the mixture into small balls or patties and brush with olive oil.
4. Preheat the air fryer to 370°F (185°C).
5. Place the falafel in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure they are not overcrowded.
6. Cook for 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
7. Serve hot with your favorite sauces or in pita bread with salad.

2. Spicy Jalapeno Falafel

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked chickpeas
• 2 jalapeno peppers, seeded and chopped
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions:

1. In a food processor, combine chickpeas, jalapeno peppers, onion, garlic, cilantro, parsley, cumin, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper.
2. Pulse until the mixture is well combined but still slightly chunky.
3. Form the mixture into small balls or patties and brush with olive oil.
4. Preheat the air fryer to 370°F (185°C).
5. Place the falafel in the air fryer basket and cook for 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crispy and golden brown.
6. Serve hot with tzatziki sauce or hummus for dipping.

3. Spinach And Feta Falafel

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked chickpeas
• 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions:

1. In a food processor, combine chickpeas, spinach, feta cheese, onion, garlic, parsley, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper.
2. Pulse until the mixture is well combined but still has some texture.
3. Form the mixture into small balls or patties and brush with olive oil.
4. Preheat the air fryer to 370°F (185°C).
5. Place the falafel in the air fryer basket and cook for 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crispy and golden brown.
6. Serve hot with a side of Greek yogurt and cucumber salad.

4. Sweet Potato Falafel

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked chickpeas
• 1 cup mashed sweet potato
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions:

1. In a food processor, combine chickpeas, mashed sweet potato, onion, garlic, cilantro, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Pulse until the mixture is well combined and smooth.
3. Form the mixture into small balls or patties and brush with olive oil.
4. Preheat the air fryer to 370°F (185°C).
5. Place the falafel in the air fryer basket and cook for 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crispy and golden brown.
6. Serve hot with a drizzle of tahini sauce and a sprinkle of sesame seeds.

5. Beetroot Falafel

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked chickpeas
• 1 cup cooked and grated beetroot
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions:

1. In a food processor, combine chickpeas, grated beetroot, onion, garlic, parsley, cumin, coriander, salt, and pepper.
2. Pulse until the mixture is well combined and slightly chunky.
3. Form the mixture into small balls or patties and brush with olive oil.
4. Preheat the air fryer to 370°F (185°C).
5. Place the falafel in the air fryer basket and cook for 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crispy and golden brown.
6. Serve hot with a dollop of Greek yogurt and a sprinkle of fresh herbs.

6. Quinoa Falafel

Ingredients:

• 1 cup cooked quinoa
• 1 cup cooked chickpeas
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions:

1. In a food processor, combine cooked quinoa, chickpeas, onion, garlic, parsley, cumin, coriander, salt, and pepper.
2. Pulse until the mixture is well combined but still has some texture.
3. Form the mixture into small balls or patties and brush with olive oil.
4. Preheat the air fryer to 370°F (185°C).
5. Place the falafel in the air fryer basket and cook for 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crispy and golden brown.
6. Serve hot with a side of tzatziki sauce or tahini dressing.

7. Black Bean Falafel

Ingredients:

• 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1/2 cup cooked chickpeas
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions:

1. In a food processor, combine black beans, chickpeas, onion, garlic, cilantro, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Pulse until the mixture is well combined but still slightly chunky.
3. Form the mixture into small balls or patties and brush with olive oil.
4. Preheat the air fryer to 370°F (185°C).
5. Place the falafel in the air fryer basket and cook for 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crispy and golden brown.
6. Serve hot with salsa or avocado crema for dipping.

8. Cauliflower Falafel

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked chickpeas
• 1 cup cooked cauliflower florets
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions:

1. In a food processor, combine chickpeas, cauliflower, onion, garlic, parsley, cumin, coriander, salt, and pepper.
2. Pulse until the mixture is well combined but still has some texture.
3. Form the mixture into small balls or patties and brush with olive oil.
4. Preheat the air fryer to 370°F (185°C).
5. Place the falafel in the air fryer basket and cook for 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crispy and golden brown.
6. Serve hot with a side of tahini sauce or yogurt-based dressing.

9. Mushroom Falafel

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked chickpeas
• 1 cup cooked mushrooms, chopped
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions:

1. In a food processor, combine chickpeas, mushrooms, onion, garlic, parsley, cumin, thyme, salt, and pepper.
2. Pulse until the mixture is well combined but still has some texture.
3. Form the mixture into small balls or patties and brush with olive oil.
4. Preheat the air fryer to 370°F (185°C).
5. Place the falafel in the air fryer basket and cook for 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crispy and golden brown.
6. Serve hot with a dollop of tzatziki sauce or lemon aioli.

10. Lentil Falafel

Ingredients:

• 1 cup cooked lentils
• 1 cup cooked chickpeas
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions:

1. In a food processor, combine cooked lentils, chickpeas, onion, garlic, parsley, cumin, coriander, salt, and pepper.
2. Pulse until the mixture is well combined but still has some texture.
3. Form the mixture into small balls or patties and brush with olive oil.
4. Preheat the air fryer to 370°F (185°C).
5. Place the falafel in the air fryer basket and cook for 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crispy and golden brown.
6. Serve hot with a side of tahini sauce or yogurt-based dip.

11. Zucchini Falafel

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked chickpeas
• 1 cup grated zucchini, squeezed to remove excess moisture
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions:

1. In a food processor, combine chickpeas, grated zucchini, onion, garlic, parsley, cumin, coriander, salt, and pepper.
2. Pulse until the mixture is well combined but still has some texture.
3. Form the mixture into small balls or patties and brush with olive oil.
4. Preheat the air fryer to 370°F (185°C).
5. Place the falafel in the air fryer basket and cook for 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crispy and golden brown.
6. Serve hot with a dollop of tzatziki sauce or harissa mayo.

12. Pesto Falafel

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked chickpeas
• 1/4 cup basil pesto
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions:

1. In a food processor, combine chickpeas, pesto, onion, garlic, parsley, cumin, salt, and pepper.
2. Pulse until the mixture is well combined but still has some texture.
3. Form the mixture into small balls or patties and brush with olive oil.
4. Preheat the air fryer to 370°F (185°C).
5. Place the falafel in the air fryer basket and cook for 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crispy and golden brown.
6. Serve hot with a side of marinara sauce or roasted red pepper dip.

13. Curry Falafel

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked chickpeas
• 2 tablespoons curry powder
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions:

1. In a food processor, combine chickpeas, curry powder, onion, garlic, cilantro, parsley, salt, and pepper.
2. Pulse until the mixture is well combined but still has some texture.
3. Form the mixture into small balls or patties and brush with olive oil.
4. Preheat the air fryer to 370°F (185°C).
5. Place the falafel in the air fryer basket and cook for 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crispy and golden brown.
6. Serve hot with a side of mango chutney or yogurt sauce.

14. Sun-Dried Tomato Falafel

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked chickpeas
• 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions:

1. In a food processor, combine chickpeas, sun-dried tomatoes, onion, garlic, parsley, basil, salt, and pepper.
2. Pulse until the mixture is well combined but still has some texture.
3. Form the mixture into small balls or patties and brush with olive oil.
4. Preheat the air fryer to 370°F (185°C).
5. Place the falafel in the air fryer basket and cook for 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crispy and golden brown.
6. Serve hot with a dollop of hummus or baba ganoush.

15. Greek Falafel

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked chickpeas
• 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped Kalamata olives
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions:

1. In a food processor, combine chickpeas, feta cheese, Kalamata olives, onion, garlic, parsley, oregano, salt, and pepper.
2. Pulse until the mixture is well combined but still has some texture.
3. Form the mixture into small balls or patties and brush with olive oil.
4. Preheat the air fryer to 370°F (185°C).
5. Place the falafel in the air fryer basket and cook for 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crispy and golden brown.
6. Serve hot with a side of tzatziki sauce or Greek yogurt.

16. Mexican Falafel

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked chickpeas
• 1/4 cup corn kernels
• 1/4 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions:

1. In a food processor, combine chickpeas, corn kernels, black beans, onion, garlic, cilantro, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
2. Pulse until the mixture is well combined but still has some texture.
3. Form the mixture into small balls or patties and brush with olive oil.
4. Preheat the air fryer to 370°F (185°C).
5. Place the falafel in the air fryer basket and cook for 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crispy and golden brown.
6. Serve hot with salsa or guacamole for dipping.

17. Mediterranean Falafel

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked chickpeas
• 1/4 cup chopped artichoke hearts
• 1/4 cup chopped roasted red peppers
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions:

1. In a food processor, combine chickpeas, artichoke hearts, roasted red peppers, onion, garlic, parsley, oregano, salt, and pepper.
2. Pulse until the mixture is well combined but still has some texture.
3. Form the mixture into small balls or patties and brush with olive oil.
4. Preheat the air fryer to 370°F (185°C).
5. Place the falafel in the air fryer basket and cook for 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crispy and golden brown.
6. Serve hot with a side of tzatziki sauce or hummus.

18. Sesame Falafel

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked chickpeas
• 1/4 cup sesame seeds
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions:

1. In a food processor, combine chickpeas, sesame seeds, onion, garlic, parsley, cumin, salt, and pepper.
2. Pulse until the mixture is well combined but still has some texture.
3. Form the mixture into small balls or patties and brush with olive oil.
4. Preheat the air fryer to 370°F (185°C).
5. Place the falafel in the air fryer basket and cook for 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crispy and golden brown.
6. Serve hot with a drizzle of tahini sauce and a sprinkle of extra sesame seeds.

19. Cilantro Lime Falafel

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked chickpeas
• Zest and juice of 1 lime
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions:

1. In a food processor, combine chickpeas, lime zest, lime juice, cilantro, onion, garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper.
2. Pulse until the mixture is well combined but still has some texture.
3. Form the mixture into small balls or patties and brush with olive oil.
4. Preheat the air fryer to 370°F (185°C).
5. Place the falafel in the air fryer basket and cook for 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crispy and golden brown.
6. Serve hot with a side of avocado salsa or lime-infused yogurt.

20. Buffalo Falafel

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked chickpeas
• 1/4 cup buffalo sauce
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions:

1. In a food processor, combine chickpeas, buffalo sauce, onion, garlic, parsley, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Pulse until the mixture is well combined but still has some texture.
3. Form the mixture into small balls or patties and brush with olive oil.
4. Preheat the air fryer to 370°F (185°C).
5. Place the falafel in the air fryer basket and cook for 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crispy and golden brown.
6. Serve hot with a side of ranch dressing or blue cheese dip.

21. Asian-Inspired Falafel

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked chickpeas
• 1/4 cup chopped water chestnuts
• 1/4 cup chopped scallions
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions:

1. In a food processor, combine chickpeas, water chestnuts, scallions, onion, garlic, soy sauce, sesame oil, ground ginger, salt, and pepper.
2. Pulse until the mixture is well combined but still has some texture.
3. Form the mixture into small balls or patties and brush with olive oil.
4. Preheat the air fryer to 370°F (185°C).
5. Place the falafel in the air fryer basket and cook for 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crispy and golden brown.
6. Serve hot with a side of sweet chili sauce or peanut dipping sauce.

22. Italian Falafel

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked chickpeas
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions:

1. In a food processor, combine chickpeas, Parmesan cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, onion, garlic, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper.
2. Pulse until the mixture is well combined but still has some texture.
3. Form the mixture into small balls or patties and brush with olive oil.
4. Preheat the air fryer to 370°F (185°C).
5. Place the falafel in the air fryer basket and cook for 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crispy and golden brown.
6. Serve hot with a side of marinara sauce or basil pesto.

23. Hawaiian Falafel

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked chickpeas
• 1/4 cup chopped pineapple
• 1/4 cup chopped bell peppers
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions:

1. In a food processor, combine chickpeas, pineapple, bell peppers, onion, garlic, cilantro, cumin, salt, and pepper.
2. Pulse until the mixture is well combined but still has some texture.
3. Form the mixture into small balls or patties and brush with olive oil.
4. Preheat the air fryer to 370°F (185°C).
5. Place the falafel in the air fryer basket and cook for 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crispy and golden brown.
6. Serve hot with a side of teriyaki sauce or pineapple salsa.

24. Moroccan Falafel

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked chickpeas
• 1/4 cup chopped dried apricots
• 1/4 cup chopped almonds
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions:

1. In a food processor, combine chickpeas, dried apricots, almonds, onion, garlic, cilantro, cumin, cinnamon, salt, and pepper.
2. Pulse until the mixture is well combined but still has some texture.
3. Form the mixture into small balls or patties and brush with olive oil.
4. Preheat the air fryer to 370°F (185°C).
5. Place the falafel in the air fryer basket and cook for 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crispy and golden brown.
6. Serve hot with a side of harissa yogurt or apricot chutney.

25. Tex-Mex Falafel

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked chickpeas
• 1/4 cup cornmeal
• 1/4 cup chopped green chilies
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions:

1. In a food processor, combine chickpeas, cornmeal, green chilies, onion, garlic, cilantro, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
2. Pulse until the mixture is well combined but still has some texture.
3. Form the mixture into small balls or patties and brush with olive oil.
4. Preheat the air fryer to 370°F (185°C).
5. Place the falafel in the air fryer basket and cook for 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crispy and golden brown.
6. Serve hot with a side of salsa or chipotle mayo.

26. Caprese Falafel

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked chickpeas
• 1/4 cup chopped cherry tomatoes
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh mozzarella
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
• 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions:

1. In a food processor, combine chickpeas, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, onion, garlic, basil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper.
2. Pulse until the mixture is well combined but still has some texture.
3. Form the mixture into small balls or patties and brush with olive oil.
4. Preheat the air fryer to 370°F (185°C).
5. Place the falafel in the air fryer basket and cook for 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crispy and golden brown.
6. Serve hot with a side of marinara sauce or balsamic glaze.

27. Pumpkin Falafel

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked chickpeas
• 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions:

1. In a food processor, combine chickpeas, pumpkin puree, onion, garlic, parsley, cumin, cinnamon, salt, and pepper.
2. Pulse until the mixture is well combined but still has some texture.
3. Form the mixture into small balls or patties and brush with olive oil.
4. Preheat the air fryer to 370°F (185°C).
5. Place the falafel in the air fryer basket and cook for 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crispy and golden brown.
6. Serve hot with a dollop of Greek yogurt and a sprinkle of pumpkin seeds.

These 27 falafel air fryer recipes offer a diverse array of flavors and ingredients to suit any palate. Whether you’re craving classic chickpea falafel or want to explore unique variations like sweet potato or beetroot falafel, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. With the convenience of an air fryer, you can enjoy crispy and flavorful falafel with less oil and hassle. So gather your ingredients, fire up your air fryer, and indulge in these delicious falafel creations for a satisfying and wholesome meal.

Top 10 Global Flavors

Falafel, originating from the Middle East, is a flavorful and versatile dish made primarily from ground chickpeas or fava beans, mixed with herbs and spices. It’s a popular street food, often served in pita bread with fresh vegetables and tahini sauce. Traditionally, falafel is deep-fried, resulting in a crispy exterior while maintaining a soft, savory interior. However, with the rise of air fryers, enthusiasts can now enjoy this delicious dish with less oil and fewer calories.

1. Traditional Middle Eastern Falafel

The classic recipe includes chickpeas, garlic, onion, parsley, coriander, cumin, and baking powder. These ingredients are combined to form a mixture that’s then shaped into balls or patties before frying or air frying.

2. Mediterranean Twist

Incorporate sun-dried tomatoes, Kalamata olives, and feta cheese into the falafel mixture for a Mediterranean flair. These additions add tanginess and depth of flavor to the traditional recipe.

3. Indian Spiced Falafel

Infuse your falafel with Indian spices such as garam masala, turmeric, and ginger for a fragrant and aromatic variation. Serve with mint chutney or yogurt sauce for a refreshing contrast.

4. Mexican-Inspired Falafel

Add a Southwestern twist to your falafel by incorporating black beans, corn, cilantro, and jalapeños into the mixture. Serve with salsa and avocado for a vibrant and satisfying meal.

5. Thai Fusion Falafel

Infuse Thai flavors into your falafel by adding lemongrass, ginger, chili peppers, and coconut milk. Pair with a peanut dipping sauce for an irresistible combination of sweet, spicy, and savory.

6. Japanese-inspired Falafel

Incorporate Japanese ingredients like edamame, miso paste, and sesame seeds into your falafel mixture for a unique and innovative twist. Serve with a wasabi mayo dipping sauce for a fusion of flavors.

7. Greek-Inspired Falafel

Channel the flavors of Greece by adding spinach, feta cheese, dill, and lemon zest to your falafel mixture. Serve with tzatziki sauce and cucumber salad for a refreshing and satisfying meal.

8. Moroccan Flavored Falafel

Infuse your falafel with Moroccan spices such as cinnamon, cumin, and paprika for a warm and aromatic variation. Serve with harissa sauce and couscous for an authentic North African experience.

9. Korean-Inspired Falafel

Incorporate Korean flavors by adding kimchi, gochujang, and sesame oil to your falafel mixture. Serve with pickled vegetables and spicy mayo for a bold and flavorful twist.

10. Italian-inspired Falafel

Add Italian flair to your falafel by incorporating sun-dried tomatoes, basil, Parmesan cheese, and garlic into the mixture. Serve with marinara sauce and arugula for a Mediterranean-inspired meal.

My Favorite Air Fryer Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 1/2 small onion, roughly chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour or chickpea flour (for gluten-free option)
• Olive oil spray

Instructions:

1. In a food processor, combine chickpeas, onion, garlic, parsley, cilantro, cumin, coriander, baking powder, salt, and pepper. Pulse until mixture is coarsely ground but not pureed.
2. Transfer mixture to a bowl and stir in flour until mixture holds together. If the mixture is too wet, add more flour as needed.
3. Shape mixture into golf ball-sized balls or patties and place them on a parchment-lined tray.
4. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
5. Spray the falafel balls or patties with olive oil spray to lightly coat.
6. Place the falafel in the air fryer basket, making sure they are not overcrowded.
7. Cook for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through cooking, until falafel are golden brown and crispy.
8. Serve hot with pita bread, tahini sauce, and your favorite toppings.

Tips And Tricks For Successful Air Fryer Cooking

1. Preheat the Air Fryer: Always preheat your air fryer before adding food. Preheating ensures even cooking and helps to achieve a crispy exterior.
2. Don’t Overcrowd the Basket: Leave enough space between food items in the air fryer basket to allow air to circulate properly. Overcrowding can result in uneven cooking.
3. Use Oil Sparingly: While air fryers require less oil than traditional frying methods, a light coating of oil can help achieve a crispy exterior. Use a spray bottle to evenly distribute oil on food.
4. Shake the Basket: Shake or flip food halfway through the cooking process to ensure even browning and crispiness.
5. Check for Doneness: Use a food thermometer to ensure that food is cooked to the appropriate internal temperature. Adjust cooking time as needed.
6. Experiment with Seasonings: Get creative with seasonings and spices to customize flavors according to your preferences.
7. Use Parchment Paper or Silicone Liners: Line the air fryer basket with parchment paper or silicone liners to prevent food from sticking and make cleanup easier.
8. Be Mindful of Cooking Times: Different foods require different cooking times and temperatures. Refer to the air fryer’s instruction manual for guidelines, and adjust as needed based on your experience.
9. Try Different Ingredients: Don’t limit yourself to traditional ingredients. Experiment with different vegetables, proteins, and grains to create unique and flavorful dishes.
10. Clean Regularly: Clean your air fryer regularly to prevent buildup of grease and food residue, which can affect its performance and flavor.

Time-Saving Strategies For Busy Cooks

1. Batch Cooking: Prepare a large batch of falafel mixture and freeze individual portions for later use. Simply thaw and cook in the air fryer whenever you need a quick meal.
2. Prep Ahead: Chop vegetables and measure out ingredients in advance to streamline the cooking process.
3. Utilize Pre-made Ingredients: Save time by using pre-made falafel mix or canned chickpeas instead of cooking from scratch.
4. Multi-Task: While the falafel is cooking in the air fryer, use the time to prepare side dishes or toppings.
5. One-Pot Meals: Combine falafel with grains, vegetables, and sauces in the air fryer for a complete meal in one pot, minimizing cleanup.
6. Leftover Transformation: Repurpose leftover falafel into salads, wraps, or bowls for quick and easy meals.

Conclusion

With the versatility of air fryers, enjoying crispy and flavorful falafel has never been easier. By incorporating global flavors, experimenting with seasonings, and utilizing time-saving strategies, you can create delicious falafel dishes tailored to your preferences. Whether you prefer traditional Middle Eastern flavors or innovative fusion recipes, the air fryer offers a convenient and healthier way to enjoy this beloved dish. So, fire up your air fryer and get ready to indulge in a culinary adventure with falafel air fryer recipes.