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Crispy Falafel Recipe: Bake, Instant Pot, Air Fryer, and Aebleskiver Method

Falafel, the beloved Middle Eastern street food, has found its way into the hearts and kitchens of food lovers around the globe. Comprising flavourful chickpeas and a mix of spices, falafel is a delicious plant-based option that can be enjoyed in wraps, salads, or on its own. This versatile dish can be prepared using various cooking methods, including baking, using an Instant Pot, air frying, or even in an Aebleskiver pan for a unique twist. In this article, we’ll delve into all of these methods so you can enjoy crispy falafels no matter your cooking preference.

Ingredients

For the Falafel:

• 400g canned chickpeas (or 200g dried chickpeas, soaked overnight)
• 1 small onion, roughly chopped
• 3-4 cloves of garlic, minced
• A handful of fresh parsley, chopped
• A handful of fresh coriander, chopped
• 1 tablespoon ground cumin
• 1 tablespoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 2 tablespoons flour (any variety)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Optional: 1-2 teaspoons of cayenne pepper for heat

For Baking:

• Olive oil spray or a drizzle of olive oil

For Air Frying:

• Cooking spray or a light brush of oil

For Serving:

• Pita bread, tahini sauce, fresh salad, or your favourite dips

Preparation Steps

1. Prepare the Chickpeas:
   If using dried chickpeas, soak them in plenty of water overnight. Rinse and drain before use. For canned chickpeas, drain and rinse thoroughly.

2. Blend the Mixture:
   In a food processor, combine the chickpeas, onion, garlic, parsley, coriander, cumin, ground coriander, baking powder, flour, salt, and pepper. Blend until it forms a coarse mixture, but be careful not to over-process into a paste. The mixture should hold together but still have some texture.

3. Chill the Mixture:
   Transfer the falafel mixture to a bowl, cover, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This helps the flavours to meld and makes the falafel easier to shape.

Cooking Methods

1. Baking Method

1. Preheat the Oven:
   Preheat your oven to 200°C (180°C fan)/400°F.

2. Shape the Falafel:
   Scoop out a generous tablespoon of the mixture and form it into a ball or patty. Repeat until all the mixture is shaped.

3. Prepare for Baking:
   Line a baking tray with parchment paper. Place the falafel on the tray, leaving space between each one. Lightly spray or drizzle olive oil over the falafel.

4. Bake:
   Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping the falafel halfway through, until they are golden brown and crispy.

2. Instant Pot Method

1. Use the Steamer Basket:
   Shape the falafel balls and place them in the steamer basket.

2. Cook:
   Pour one cup of water into the Instant Pot, place the steamer basket inside, and seal the lid. Cook on high pressure for 10 minutes, then use a quick release.

3. Crisp Them Up:
   To achieve a crispy exterior, transfer them to a hot skillet with a little oil for a few minutes on each side, or follow the air fryer method below.

3. Air Fryer Method

1. Preheat the Air Fryer:
   Preheat the air fryer to 180°C (350°F).

2. Arrange the Falafel:
   Place the shaped falafel in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they do not touch each other. Lightly spray with oil.

3. Air Fry:
   Cook for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the falafel are golden and crispy.

4. Aebleskiver Method

1. Preheat Aebleskiver Pan:
   Preheat the Aebleskiver pan over medium heat and lightly grease it with oil.

2. Cook Falafel:
   Use a tablespoon or small scoop to add the falafel mixture to each of the wells. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, rotating them as needed until they are golden brown.

Serving Suggestions

Crispy falafel can be served in a variety of ways. They are perfect in pita bread with a drizzle of tahini sauce, accompanied by a light salad of diced cucumber and tomatoes. Enjoy them as a tasty snack or as part of a larger mezze platter with hummus, olives, and pickles.

Final Thoughts

Whether you prefer baking, using an Instant Pot for convenience, air frying for a healthier option, or experimenting with an Aebleskiver pan, this crispy falafel recipe is sure to become a staple in your meal rotation. Packed with flavour and a satisfying crunch, these falafels offer a delightful way to enjoy a plant-based meal. So gather your ingredients, choose your cooking method, and enjoy a homemade taste of the Middle East!