Falafel has gained popularity in recent years as a delicious and healthy alternative to traditional meat-based dishes. This Middle Eastern delicacy is made from ground chickpeas, herbs, and spices, formed into small balls or patties, and then deep-fried until crispy. However, with the rise of air fryers, many people are now wondering if it is possible to make falafel using this modern kitchen appliance. In this article, we will explore how to make falafel in an air fryer, providing you with a healthy and delightful recipe that will satisfy your taste buds while keeping your waistline in check.
Gathering the Ingredients
Before diving into the recipe, it is important to make sure you have all the necessary ingredients at hand. Here’s a list of what you’ll need:
1. 2 cups of dried chickpeas (you can also use canned chickpeas, but the texture may not be as firm)
2. 1 small onion, roughly chopped
3. 5-6 cloves of garlic
4. A handful of fresh parsley
5. A handful of fresh cilantro
6. 1 teaspoon of ground cumin
7. 1 teaspoon of ground coriander
8. 1 teaspoon of baking powder
9. Salt and pepper to taste
10. Olive oil for brushing
Preparing the Chickpeas
The first step in making falafel is to properly prepare the chickpeas. If you are using dried chickpeas, soak them in water overnight to soften. Once soaked, drain the water and rinse the chickpeas thoroughly. If you are using canned chickpeas, skip this step as they are already cooked and tender.
The Mixture and Seasoning
Now that your chickpeas are ready, it’s time to create the base mixture for your falafel. In a food processor, combine the chickpeas, onion, garlic, parsley, cilantro, cumin, coriander, baking powder, salt, and pepper. Pulse the mixture until everything is well combined, but be careful not to over-process it, as you want to maintain some texture.
Shaping the Falafel
Once the mixture is ready, transfer it to a mixing bowl. At this stage, you may need to adjust the consistency by adding some breadcrumbs if the mixture feels too loose or a little water if it seems dry. Form the mixture into small balls or patties, shaping them firmly but gently to ensure they hold their shape during cooking.
Air Frying the Falafel
Now that the falafel are shaped and ready, it’s time to cook them using your air fryer. Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). While the air fryer is heating up, lightly brush each falafel with olive oil. This will help them develop a golden and crispy exterior.
Cooking Time and Temperature
Place the falafel into the air fryer basket, making sure to leave enough space between each piece for the hot air to circulate. Cook the falafel for 12-15 minutes, flipping them halfway through to ensure even cooking. The exact cooking time may vary depending on the size and thickness of your falafel, so keep an eye on them and adjust accordingly.
Serving and Enjoyment
Once your falafel are cooked to perfection, remove them from the air fryer and let them cool for a few minutes before serving. Falafel is traditionally enjoyed in warm pita bread, alongside fresh vegetables, tahini sauce, and a sprinkle of sumac or sesame seeds. However, you can also serve them as a protein-packed salad topping or as a flavorful addition to a Buddha bowl. The possibilities are endless!
The Benefits of Air Fryer Falafel
Choosing to make falafel in an air fryer has several benefits that go beyond just being a healthier alternative to deep-fried falafel. Here are a few reasons why you might want to give it a try:
Healthier Cooking
Air fryers use hot air circulation to cook food, reducing the need for excessive oil. Traditional falafel is deep-fried, resulting in a higher calorie and fat content. By air frying falafel, you can significantly reduce the amount of oil used without sacrificing the taste and texture, making it a healthier option for those watching their dietary intake.
Crispy Texture and Taste
Air frying achieves a crispy texture and golden-brown color similar to deep-frying. The circulating hot air ensures that the falafel is evenly cooked, creating a satisfying crunch that enhances its taste. You can enjoy all the deliciousness of falafel without the greasy feeling associated with deep-frying.
Convenience and Time-Saving
Using an air fryer allows you to cut down on cooking time compared to traditional methods. Preheating an air fryer takes only a few minutes, and the cooking time for falafel is significantly reduced. This makes it perfect for those looking for a quick and easy meal solution without compromising on flavor or quality.
Conclusion
Making falafel in an air fryer is a healthy and delightful alternative to the traditional deep-fried version. By following the simple steps outlined in this article, you can create a batch of crispy and delicious falafel that will satisfy your cravings while keeping your health goals in check. The air fryer offers a convenient and time-saving cooking method that produces fantastic results. So why not grab your ingredients, fire up your air fryer, and enjoy a satisfying plate of homemade falafel today!