Introduction
Falafels are a popular Middle Eastern dish made from ground chickpeas or fava beans. They are usually deep-fried, but using an air fryer can make them a healthier alternative. Air frying allows you to enjoy the crispy texture and delicious taste of falafels without the excess oil. In this article, we will explore how to make falafels in an air fryer and provide some tips and tricks for achieving the perfect results.
Choosing the Right Ingredients
To make falafels in an air fryer, you will need the following ingredients:
- 2 cups of dried chickpeas
- 1 small onion, roughly chopped
- 4 garlic cloves
- 1 cup of fresh parsley leaves
- 1 cup of fresh cilantro leaves
- 1 teaspoon of ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon of ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon of baking powder
- 1 tablespoon of all-purpose flour
- Salt and pepper to taste
Preparing the Falafel Mixture
Start by soaking the chickpeas overnight in water. Drain and rinse them the next day. In a food processor, combine the soaked chickpeas, onion, garlic, parsley, cilantro, cumin, coriander, baking powder, flour, salt, and pepper. Process the mixture until it forms a coarse paste. You may need to scrape down the sides of the processor bowl a few times to ensure everything is evenly mixed.
Shaping the Falafels
Once the mixture is ready, use your hands to shape it into small patties or balls. You can make them as big or as small as you prefer. Place the shaped falafels on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Make sure to leave some space between each falafel to allow for even cooking.
Air Frying the Falafels
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Lightly brush the falafels with olive oil to give them a nice golden color. Place them in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for about 10 minutes, then flip the falafels and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes until they are crispy and golden brown on the outside.
Serving Suggestions
Falafels can be served in various ways. They are often stuffed into pita bread and topped with tahini sauce, chopped tomatoes, cucumbers, and lettuce. You can also serve them as an appetizer with a side of hummus or tzatziki sauce. They are a versatile dish that can be enjoyed on their own or as part of a larger meal.
Tips and Tricks
Here are a few tips to ensure your falafels turn out perfectly:
- Make sure the chickpeas are soaked overnight to ensure they blend well.
- Do not use canned chickpeas as they are too soft and will result in a mushy texture.
- If the mixture is too wet, add a little more flour to bind it together.
- Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket as it may affect the cooking process.
- Experiment with different spices and herbs to customize the flavor of your falafels.
Conclusion
Falafels in an air fryer are a delicious and healthier alternative to the traditional deep-fried version. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can enjoy crispy and flavorful falafels with less oil and fewer calories. So why not give it a try and enjoy this Middle Eastern delight in a guilt-free way!