Air Fryer Frozen Falafel: Quick, Crunchy Delight

Falafel is a traditional Middle Eastern dish that has become popular worldwide, especially among vegetarians and those who enjoy meat-free meals. While the traditional method of cooking falafel is deep-frying, using an air fryer is a healthier alternative that produces similar results with less oil and cleanup. This introduction will cover the ingredients, preparation, and serving suggestions for making frozen falafel in an air fryer.

How to shape falafel for the air fryer

After processing your chickpeas with your herbs, garlic, and spices, you need to shape them into a small unit. For air frying, shaping them into discs or slightly flattened balls works better than balls. This is because the falafel will lay flat in the air fryer basket and won't roll around as they cook. It's also easier to stuff them into a pita if they are flat.

When forming the falafel mixture into discs, be sure not to overcrowd the air fryer basket. They need room so they can turn airy and crispy as they cook. Work in batches as needed.

How to make the falafel mixture

Ingredients:

Firstly, gather your ingredients. You will need dried chickpeas (also called garbanzo beans), fresh herbs (dill, parsley, and cilantro), an onion, garlic, spices (cumin, coriander, and cayenne pepper), baking powder, and sesame seeds.

Soaking the Chickpeas:

Start by soaking your dried chickpeas in a large bowl of water for 18-24 hours. The chickpeas should be covered by at least 2-3 inches of water, and you can add a small amount of baking soda to help soften them. After soaking, drain the chickpeas and pat them dry with a paper towel if they are too wet.

Processing the Mixture:

Combine the soaked and drained chickpeas, fresh herbs, onion, garlic, and spices in a food processor. Pulse the mixture until it forms a coarse meal or a rough paste. Do not over-process; the mixture should be well combined but still slightly chunky.

Chilling the Mixture:

Transfer the falafel mixture to a bowl, cover it, and refrigerate for about an hour or even overnight. Chilling the mixture will make it easier to shape into patties, and it will hold together better.

Adding Final Ingredients:

After chilling, stir in some baking powder and, optionally, toasted sesame seeds into the falafel mixture. The baking powder will help create a fluffy texture, while the sesame seeds add a nutty flavor.

Now your falafel mixture is ready to be formed into patties and cooked in your air fryer!

How to cook the falafel in the air fryer

Step 1: Soak the chickpeas

Place dried chickpeas in a large bowl and cover them with plenty of water (the chickpeas should always be covered by at least 2-3 inches of water). Leave the chickpeas to soak for 18-24 hours. Then, drain and pat them dry with a paper towel.

Step 2: Prepare the falafel dough

Transfer the chickpeas and remaining ingredients to a food processor and process for around 20 seconds. Scrape down the sides and repeat this process until the mixture is well combined but not too mushy.

Step 3: Chill the mixture

Chill the falafel mixture in the fridge for at least an hour, or even overnight. This will make it easier to shape the mixture into patties, and it will hold together better.

Step 4: Shape the falafel

Use an ice cream scoop or spoon to measure out the mixture and shape it into balls or slightly flattened discs/patties. If you are using your hands, it may help to wet them first so that the mixture doesn't stick.

Step 5: Cook the falafel

Spray the air fryer basket and falafel balls with a little cooking spray or olive oil. Then, cook the falafel at 350-400°F for 10-15 minutes, flipping them over halfway through. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook the falafel in batches. Once ready, they will be crispy and lightly browned on the outside.

How to store and reheat falafel

If you have leftover falafel, you can store it in the fridge for up to six days or freeze it for longer storage.

Storing and Reheating Cooked Falafel

To store cooked falafel, first, let it cool down to room temperature. Then, place the falafel on a cookie sheet and put it in the freezer. Once the falafel is frozen solid, transfer it to a zip-top bag or freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to three months, but it's best to eat it within a month.

To reheat frozen falafel, place it on a baking sheet and put it in an oven heated to 350°F for about 15 minutes. Flip the falafel halfway through the reheating time.

You can also reheat the falafel in an air fryer. Heat the air fryer to 350°F and reheat the falafel for two to three minutes.

Storing and Reheating Uncooked Falafel

You can also store uncooked falafel in the freezer. First, shape the falafel mixture into balls or patties. Then, place them on a cookie sheet and put them in the freezer for about half an hour. Take them out and transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored in the freezer for about six months.

To cook the frozen falafel, you can either thaw it overnight or cook it from frozen. Reheat it in an oven or air fryer, as described above.

Tips for Reheating Falafel

• Reheat falafel in the oven or air fryer to retain its crispiness.
• If reheating in the oven, wrap the falafel loosely in aluminium foil to prevent it from drying out.
• If using a microwave, cover the falafel with a damp paper towel to prevent it from drying out.
• Reheat the falafel for as short a time as possible to prevent it from drying out or becoming hard.

What to serve with falafel

There are many options for what to serve with falafel, including various breads, condiments, toppings, salads, and side dishes. Here are some ideas:

Breads

• Pita bread is a classic falafel pairing and can be store-bought or homemade.
• Naan bread is another option for dipping into sauces or eating with falafel.
• Other options include whole wheat pita, fino bread (hot dog buns), or any sandwich bread of your choice.

Condiments and Toppings

• Tahini sauce is a common dip for falafel and can be drizzled directly over the falafel or mixed with yoghurt to make a garlic sauce.
• Hummus, a creamy dip made from chickpeas and tahini, is also a popular pairing.
• Tzatziki sauce, also known as yogurt with cucumber, is another favourite.
• Pickled vegetables, such as red cabbage, onions, green beans, or turnips, add a tangy crunch to your falafel.
• Olives add a briny, salty element.
• Feta cheese is a creamy and salty addition that pairs well with falafel.

Salads and Side Dishes

• Falafel can be served on a bed of greens as a salad, using a tahini sauce as a dressing.
• Mediterranean-style salads such as tabbouleh, Greek cucumber salad, or a grain salad with lemon and herbs complement the flavours of falafel well.
• Falafel can be served with roasted vegetables such as bell peppers, tomatoes, or beets.
• Halloumi cheese is a popular addition, served with tomatoes and fresh herbs or in a couscous salad.
• Falafel is sometimes served with fries, including regular, sweet potato, avocado, or parsnip fries.

Drinks

• Teas, sodas, and coffee are commonly enjoyed after a falafel meal.
• Cola or sprite are often served with falafel.

Frequently asked questions