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Air Fryer Falafel: A Healthier Twist on a Classic Delight

Falafel is a beloved Middle Eastern dish, known for its crispy texture and rich flavour. Traditionally made from ground chickpeas or fava beans, these deep-fried balls or patties are coated in a delightful crunch and often served in pita bread with fresh salads and tahini sauce. However, with the rise of health-conscious cooking, air fryers have become a popular kitchen appliance, allowing us to enjoy our favourite fried foods with significantly less oil. In this article, we’ll explore how to make delicious air fryer falafel that’s both scrumptious and guilt-free.

The Versatility of Falafel

Falafel is not only tasty but also incredibly versatile. It can be enjoyed in various ways—wrap it up in pita bread, serve it with quinoa, or toss it into a salad. The basic ingredients remain consistent, including chickpeas, herbs, and spices, but variations can include the addition of different vegetables and seasonings. The air fryer method promises to retain the traditional flavours while providing a lighter alternative without sacrificing the all-important crunch.

Ingredients for Air Fryer Falafel

To whip up a batch of air fryer falafel, you will need the following ingredients:

• 400g canned chickpeas (or 200g dried chickpeas, soaked overnight)
• 1 small onion, roughly chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• A handful of fresh parsley, chopped
• A handful of fresh coriander (cilantro), chopped
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• A pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2-3 tablespoons plain flour (or chickpea flour for gluten-free)
• Olive oil spray

Step-by-Step Recipe

1. Prepare Chickpeas

If using dried chickpeas, soak them overnight in water. If using canned chickpeas, drain and rinse them thoroughly.

2. Blend the Ingredients

In a food processor, combine the chickpeas, onion, garlic, parsley, coriander, cumin, ground coriander, paprika, cayenne pepper, baking powder, salt, pepper, and flour. Pulse the mixture until it becomes a coarse paste. You want it to be thick enough to form balls but not too mushy. If the mixture is too wet, add more flour.

3. Shape the Falafel

Using your hands, take a small amount of the mixture and roll it into a ball or patty. Aim for a size similar to a golf ball. This recipe should yield around 12-15 falafel.

4. Preheat the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 180°C (350°F) for about 3-5 minutes. This step is essential for achieving the perfect crispiness.

5. Air Fry the Falafel

Lightly spray the falafel balls with olive oil and arrange them in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not touching to allow even cooking. Depending on the capacity of your fryer, you may need to work in batches. Cook for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.

6. Serve and Enjoy

Once cooked, remove the falafel from the air fryer and serve immediately. They are perfect served with a side of tahini sauce, a fresh salad, or stuffed in pita bread with your choice of toppings.

Nutritional Benefits

Air fryer falafel is not only a tasty alternative but also comes packed with health benefits. Chickpeas are high in fibre and protein, which can aid in digestion and keep you feeling full longer. The use of less oil in the air fryer significantly reduces the fat content compared to traditional frying methods, making this option heart-healthier.

Conclusion

Air fryer falafel is an excellent way to enjoy a classic dish while embracing a healthier lifestyle. With its simplicity and the use of everyday ingredients, this recipe is perfect for a quick meal or as part of a substantial feast. Whether you’re a falafel aficionado or a newcomer to this delightful culinary treat, give this air fryer version a try—you’re bound to be impressed by the flavour and texture it brings to the table!

So, dust off your air fryer, gather your ingredients, and treat yourself to these crispy, moreish balls of goodness that promise to add some excitement to your mealtime repertoire. Enjoy!

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