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Balancing Bowls
Balancing BowlsVerified

January 27, 2026

This easy air fryer falafel recipe gives you the crispy texture of deep-fried versions with much less oil. Whether you're new to air fryer recipes or just looking for a healthier way to enjoy this popular Middle Eastern dish, you're in the right place!

Air Fryer Falafel
Air Fryer Falafel
Air Fryer Falafel
Air Fryer Falafel
Air Fryer Falafel
Air Fryer Falafel
Air Fryer Falafel cover
From the Cook
From the Cook
From the Cook
From the Cook
From the Cook
From the Cook
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Air Fryer Falafel

Ingredients

0 allergens identified

Instructions

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Instructions

1
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Place 1 lb (450 g) dried chickpeas in a large bowl. Cover with water by at least 2 inches and soak overnight. Drain thoroughly before using.
2
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In a food processor, combine the soaked chickpeas, 1 cup (60 g) fresh parsley, 1 cup (60 g) fresh cilantro, 1 medium onion (150 g), 8 peeled garlic cloves, 2 teaspoons salt (10 g), 1 tablespoon ground black pepper (8 g), 1 tablespoon ground cumin (6 g), 1 tablespoon ground coriander (6 g), 1 teaspoon ground cardamom (2 g), 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (2 g), and 2 tablespoons olive oil (30 ml). Pulse until a coarse, sticky dough forms.
3
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Sprinkle 1 teaspoon (4 g) baking powder over the mixture. Transfer to a large bowl, gently mix, and remove any large chunks of chickpeas. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
4
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Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Shape the mixture into balls or patties using a cookie scoop or your hands.
5
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Arrange the falafel in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Spray with avocado oil spray. Air fry for 20-22 minutes, turning halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
6
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Serve warm with pita bread, tahini sauce, or a fresh salad.

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Tips & Tricks (5)

  • Chickpea Hydration Hack 💧
    Soak dried chickpeas overnight for at least 12 hours to ensure proper texture and easier blending, avoiding canned chickpeas which can make falafel too mushy.
  • Moisture Management 🧊
    After blending the falafel mixture, refrigerate for 30-60 minutes to help the mixture firm up and prevent crumbling during air frying.
  • Spray Technique Mastery 💨
    Lightly coat falafel balls with avocado oil spray before air frying to achieve maximum crispiness without excess oil absorption.
  • Shape Consistency Pro 🔬
    Use a small ice cream scoop or tablespoon to create uniform-sized falafel balls, ensuring even cooking and consistent texture.
  • Herb Freshness Trick 🌿
    Finely chop fresh cilantro and parsley by hand instead of using a food processor to prevent herb oxidation and preserve their vibrant flavor and color.

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About the Cook

Balancing Bowls

I'm Nora! Balancing Bowls is the product of a slightly chaotic life, a need to make and grow things, and a love of creative cooking. If you're here because you're trying to feed your family well without losing your mind, you're in the right place.

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