Crispy Air Fryer Falafel with Tahini Sauce
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Diet: Plant-based, Mediterranean, Gluten-free
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 (15 oz) can chickpeas, drained, rinsed, and patted very dry
- 1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 small red onion, chopped
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons chickpea flour (or all-purpose flour)
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- Olive oil spray
- For the Tahini Sauce:
- 1/4 cup tahini paste
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon warm water (add more for desired consistency)
- 1 clove garlic, grated
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Start by draining and rinsing the chickpeas. It is crucial to pat them completely dry with a paper towel. If they are too wet, the falafel may become mushy. Place the dried chickpeas, onion, garlic, parsley, and cilantro into a food processor.
- Pulse the mixture until it is finely minced but not a smooth paste. You want it to hold together when squeezed, but still have some texture. Add the cumin, coriander, salt, pepper, flour, and baking powder. Pulse a few more times to incorporate everything evenly.
- Scoop about 1.5 to 2 tablespoons of the mixture at a time and roll it into a ball or a small patty. Place the shaped falafel on a plate and let them rest in the refrigerator for about 10 minutes to help them firm up.
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease the air fryer basket with olive oil spray. Place the falafel balls in a single layer, ensuring they do not touch. Spray the tops of the falafel with more olive oil. Cook for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden brown and crispy.
- While the falafel is cooking, whisk together the tahini, lemon juice, grated garlic, and salt in a small bowl. Gradually add warm water one tablespoon at a time until the sauce reaches a creamy, pourable consistency.
- Remove the hot falafel from the air fryer and serve immediately while they are at their maximum crispiness. Drizzle the fresh tahini sauce over the top or serve it on the side for dipping.