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Air Fryer Falafel: A Deliciously Healthy Treat from Treks & Bites ®️

If you’re a fan of Middle Eastern cuisine, you’ve likely savoured the delights of falafel. These little balls of goodness, made from ground chickpeas or fava beans, are typically deep-fried to achieve that perfect golden-brown crispiness. However, at Treks & Bites ®️, we believe that enjoying this beloved dish doesn’t have to come at the expense of health. Enter the air fryer – the kitchen gadget that’s revolutionising the way we cook and enjoy our favourite foods.

What is Falafel?

Falafel is a traditional Middle Eastern dish that consists of a mixture of ground legumes, herbs, and spices, shaped into balls or patties and fried until crispy. They are often served in pita bread with fresh vegetables and tahini sauce or enjoyed on their own as a hearty snack. Packed with protein and fibre, falafel is not only delicious but also provides a nutritious boost to any meal.

Why Air Fryer Falafel?

The air fryer uses hot air circulation to cook food, producing a crispy texture without the need for excessive oil. This cooking method not only reduces calories but also retains more nutrients compared to traditional frying methods. At Treks & Bites ®️, we are passionate about creating dishes that harmonise taste and health, and our air fryer falafel fits the bill perfectly!

Ingredients You’ll Need

To whip up your own batch of air fryer falafel, gather the following ingredients:

• 400g can of chickpeas (drained and rinsed) or 200g dried chickpeas (soaked overnight)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2-3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp ground coriander
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• 2 tbsp fresh coriander, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp olive oil (for brushing)

Optional Add-Ins:

• 1-2 tsp of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat
• A squeeze of lemon juice for extra zest

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chickpeas: If you’re using dried chickpeas, ensure they’ve been soaked overnight to soften them. Drain and rinse. Canned chickpeas should be drained and rinsed.

2. Blend the Mixture: In a food processor, combine the chickpeas, onion, garlic, cumin, coriander, baking powder, parsley, coriander, salt, and pepper. Pulse the mixture until it’s a slightly coarse consistency, making sure not to puree it completely – you want to maintain some texture.

3. Chill the Dough: Transfer the mixture to a bowl and refrigerate for about 30 minutes. Chilling helps the falafel maintain their shape during cooking.

4. Shape the Falafel: Once chilled, use your hands to form small balls or patties, approximately 1-2 inches in diameter.

5. Preheat the Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 200°C (390°F) and allow it to preheat for about 5 minutes.

6. Brush with Oil: Lightly brush the falafel with olive oil to help achieve that lovely golden colour and enhance the crispiness.

7. Cook: Carefully place the falafel in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd them. Cook for 12-15 minutes, flipping them halfway through, until they are golden brown and crispy.

8. Serve: Once cooked, remove them from the air fryer and let them cool slightly. Serve with pita bread, fresh vegetables, and a drizzle of tahini sauce or your favourite condiment.

Conclusion

Air fryer falafel is not only fun and easy to make but also a healthy alternative to traditional deep-fried versions. At Treks & Bites ®️, we love how this method preserves the delightful crunch while delivering a dish that’s lower in calories and full of flavour.

So why not give this delectable recipe a go? Whether you’re serving them at a gathering or enjoying them as a quick lunch, these air fryer falafel will surely impress even the most discerning palates. Join us in exploring health-conscious delights and bringing a taste of the Middle East right to your kitchen! Enjoy your culinary adventure!

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