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Air-Fried Lemony Falafel Recipe: A Healthier Delight

Falafel is a beloved Middle Eastern dish that has won hearts around the globe with its rich textures and zesty flavours. Traditionally deep-fried, falafel can sometimes be a tad heavy. However, with the advent of air fryers—one of the most popular kitchen gadgets in recent years—you can enjoy a lighter version without sacrificing taste. In this article, we present a delightful Air-Fried Lemony Falafel recipe that’s not only healthier but also quick and easy to make.

Why Choose Air-Fried Falafel?

Air frying is a fantastic cooking method that uses hot air circulation to achieve a crispy texture without the need for excessive oil. This reduction in oil means you can enjoy falafel with fewer calories and a lighter feel, all while retaining that satisfying crunch. Plus, adding zesty lemon to the mix enhances the falafel’s flavour, giving it a refreshing twist that’s perfect for lunches, snacks, or entertaining.

Ingredients

To make approximately 20 falafels, you will need the following ingredients:

• For the Falafel:

  • 400g canned chickpeas, drained and rinsed (or 200g dried chickpeas soaked overnight)
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 small bunch of fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 small bunch of fresh coriander (cilantro), chopped
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp ground coriander
  • ½ tsp baking powder
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 2-3 tbsp flour (chickpea flour or plain flour, if required)
• For the Serving:
  • Pita bread or wraps
  • Hummus or tahini sauce
  • Fresh salad (cabbage, cucumber, tomatoes)
  • Additional lemon wedges

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Mixture

1. Chickpea Base: If using dried chickpeas, ensure they have been soaked overnight and drained. In a food processor, combine the chickpeas, onion, garlic, parsley, coriander, lemon zest, lemon juice, cumin, ground coriander, baking powder, salt, and pepper. Pulse the mixture until it is well blended but still slightly chunky—this gives falafel its signature texture.

2. Flour Adjustment: If the mixture feels too wet, gradually add flour until it is manageable and holds together when shaped. This usually requires between 2 to 3 tablespoons.

Step 2: Shape the Falafel

1. Form the Balls: With wet hands (to prevent sticking), take a small handful of the mixture and form it into small balls or patties. Aim for about a tablespoon of mixture for each falafel.

Step 3: Air Fry the Falafel

1. Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 180°C (350°F) for about 5 minutes.

2. Cook the Falafel: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking oil. Place the falafel in the basket in a single layer, ensuring they are not touching. Lightly spray the tops with oil to help achieve a golden crisp.

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

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

1. Dress It Up: Once cooked, remove the falafel from the air fryer and allow them to cool for a moment. Serve them warm in pita bread or wraps with a generous spread of hummus or tahini sauce, topped with fresh salad.

2. Add Zest: Squeeze additional lemon juice over the top for that extra zing!

Tips for Success

• Preparation: For the best flavour, allow the falafel mixture to rest in the fridge for 30 minutes before forming and cooking. This step helps the flavours meld beautifully.
• Batch Cooking: If you have leftover falafel, they can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days and reheated in the air fryer for a quick snack.
• Customisation: Feel free to customise your falafel by adding spices such as smoked paprika, or even diced chillies for a bit of heat.

Conclusion

This Air-Fried Lemony Falafel recipe is an excellent way to enjoy a classic dish in a healthier form. With vibrant flavours and a pleasing crunch, these falafels are not only a feast for the palate but also a nutritious addition to your meal rotation. Whether served as a snack, a part of a larger spread, or as a vegetarian main course, they are sure to delight anyone lucky enough to taste them. Bon appétit!

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