Air Fryer Falafels with Canned Chickpeas
If you’re craving a delicious and healthy snack or meal, look no further than these air fryer falafels with canned chickpeas! Quick and easy to prepare, this recipe brings together the earthy flavors of chickpeas, fresh herbs, and spices, all cooked to crispy perfection in the air fryer. Using canned chickpeas not only saves time but also makes this dish accessible for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings. Whether served in a pita, atop a fresh salad, or enjoyed on their own with a zesty dipping sauce, these falafels are sure to satisfy your taste buds while keeping things light and wholesome.
Equipment
- Air Fryer
- 2 tbsp. Cookie Scoop
- Parchment Paper
Ingredients
- 1 can Chickpeas drained
- 1/2 bunch Fresh Parsley
- 1/2 bunch Fresh Cilantro
- 1/2 Onion
- 1/2 tsp. Cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp. Paprika
- 1 tsp. Cumin
- 1 tsp. Coriander
- 1/4 tsp. Black Pepper
- 2 tsp. Salt
- 1/4 cup Flour
- 1 tbsp. Minced Garlic
- 2 tbsp. Olive Oil
Instructions
- In a food processor, combine the drained chickpeas, parsley, cilantro, onion, garlic, cumin, cinnamon, paprika, coriander, black pepper, and salt. Scrape down the sides as needed to ensure everything is evenly mixed. Once well-combined, add in the flour.1 can Chickpeas, 1/2 bunch Fresh Parsley, 1/2 bunch Fresh Cilantro, 1/2 Onion, 1/2 tsp. Cinnamon, 1/2 tsp. Paprika, 1 tsp. Cumin, 1 tsp. Coriander, 1/4 tsp. Black Pepper, 2 tsp. Salt, 1 tbsp. Minced Garlic, 1/4 cup Flour
- Using your hands, or a scoop, take about 2 tablespoons of the falafel mixture and shape it into a ball or patty. Aim for uniform sizes so they cook evenly. Place the formed falafels on a parchment-lined oiled tray.
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes. This step ensures that the falafels start cooking immediately, promoting an even, crispy texture.
- Lightly brush or spray each falafel with olive oil.2 tbsp. Olive Oil
- Cook for 18 to 20 minutes, flipping them halfway through the cooking time. At the halfway mark, brush or spray a little more olive oil on the falafels to ensure they crisp up beautifully on both sides. (if you need to add more time to make them brown to your liking, don't be afraid to do so)
- Once they’re done & brown to your liking, serve them warm with your favorite dips, such as tahini sauce, tzatziki, or hummus, and enjoy them in pita bread with fresh veggies or even on a salad!
Notes
Storage Tips for This Recipe
- Cooling: Allow the falafels to cool completely at room temperature before storing them. This helps prevent condensation and keeps them from becoming soggy.
- Refrigeration: Store leftover falafels in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can be kept for up to 4 days. To maintain their texture, you may want to place a paper towel in the container to absorb any excess moisture.
- Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the falafels. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. This method prevents them from sticking together, allowing you to take out only what you need. Frozen falafels can last up to 3 months.
- Reheating: When you're ready to enjoy the leftovers, reheat them in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes to restore their crispiness. You can also reheat them in an oven, placing them on a baking sheet until heated through.
FAQs About Air Fryer Falafels with Canned Chickpeas
- Can I use dried chickpeas instead of canned?
Yes, you can use dried chickpeas, but you'll need to soak them overnight and cook them until tender before using them in the recipe. Canned chickpeas offer convenience and save time. - What if I don’t have an air fryer?
If you don’t have an air fryer, you can bake the falafels in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes, flipping them halfway through. You can also fry them in a skillet with oil for a traditional method, but this will increase the calorie content. - Can I make these falafels gluten-free?
Yes! Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with chickpea flour or another gluten-free flour of your choice to make the falafels gluten-free. - Can I prepare the mixture in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the falafel mixture a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Just be sure to shape the falafels right before cooking for the best texture. - Why are my falafels falling apart?
If your falafels are crumbling, it may be due to not enough binding agents. Ensure you’re using enough flour, and avoid under-processing the chickpeas in the food processor. A little chill time in the fridge before cooking can also help them hold their shape. - How do I know when the falafels are done cooking?
The falafels should be golden brown and crispy on the outside when done. You can also use a food thermometer; they should reach an internal temperature of at least 165°F (74°C).