The Best Falafel That Happens to Be Oil-Free

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Healthier Option: By using an air fryer, these falafel are oil-free, reducing unnecessary fats while maintaining flavor.
• Simple Ingredients: Made with common pantry staples, this recipe is both accessible and easy to prepare.
• Versatile Serving Suggestions: Enjoy them on a salad, in a wrap, or as a snack with your favorite dipping sauce.
• Meal Prep Friendly: These falafel can be made in large batches and frozen for later use, making them convenient for busy days.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 cup dried chickpeas (garbanzo beans), soaked in water for 8 or more hours
• ½ cup fresh parsley, roughly chopped
• ½ cup fresh cilantro, roughly chopped
• 6 to 7 fresh mint leaves
• ½ onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon ground flaxseed (or flaxseed meal)
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon coconut aminos (or regular aminos)
• Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
• Salt to taste

Directions

1. Soak the Chickpeas: Place dried chickpeas in a large bowl and cover with water, ensuring there’s about 2 inches of water above the chickpeas. Soak for at least 8 hours or overnight. After soaking, rinse and drain the chickpeas.
2. Prepare the Mixture: In a food processor, combine the soaked chickpeas, parsley, cilantro, mint, onion, garlic, ground flaxseed, cumin, coriander, coconut aminos, cayenne pepper (if using), and salt. Pulse until the mixture forms a coarse meal. Scrape down the sides as needed to ensure even mixing. The mixture should hold together when pressed but not be too mushy.
3. Form the Falafel: Using a spoon or ice cream scooper (about ⅛ cup size), shape the mixture into small balls or patties.
4. Cook the Falafel:
   • Air Fryer Method: Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Place the falafel balls in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not touching. Cook for 10 to 12 minutes, or until golden brown.
   • Oven Method: Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Place the falafel on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 25 minutes, or until golden brown.
5. Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm with your choice of dipping sauce, such as hummus or tahini.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: Makes approximately 12 falafel balls.
• Preparation Time: Approximately 15 minutes.
• Cooking Time: 10 to 12 minutes in the air fryer or 25 minutes in the oven.
• Total Time: Approximately 30 to 40 minutes, excluding soaking time.

Variations

• Spice Level: Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to suit your heat preference.
• Herb Substitutions: Replace mint with fresh dill or basil for a different flavor profile.
• Add-ins: Incorporate finely chopped vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for added texture and nutrition.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover falafel in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze cooked falafel in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: Reheat frozen falafel in the air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 5 to 7 minutes, or until heated through.

FAQs

1. Can I use canned chickpeas instead of dried?

It’s recommended to use dried chickpeas soaked overnight for the best texture and flavor. Canned chickpeas may be too soft and could result in falafel that doesn’t hold together well.

2. How do I prevent my falafel from falling apart?

Ensure the mixture is processed to a coarse meal and not too mushy. If the mixture is too wet, add a bit more ground flaxseed or chickpea flour to help bind it.

3. Can I bake these falafel instead of using an air fryer?

Yes, you can bake the falafel in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) for 25 minutes, or until golden brown.

4. What can I serve with falafel?

Falafel pairs well with salads, wraps, pita bread, and various dipping sauces like hummus, tahini, or tzatziki.

5. Can I make falafel ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the falafel mixture in advance and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before cooking.

6. Are these falafel gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is gluten-free as it doesn’t contain any wheat-based ingredients.

7. Can I add other vegetables to the falafel mixture?

Yes, feel free to add finely chopped vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for added nutrition and flavor.

8. Can I use a different kind of flour to bind the falafel?

Yes, you can use chickpea flour or gluten-free flour as a binder if the mixture feels too wet.

9. How do I get my falafel crispy without oil?

Using an air fryer at the right temperature will help achieve a crispy texture without oil. Alternatively, baking them at a high temperature also works.

10. Can I freeze the falafel before cooking?

Yes, you can freeze the uncooked falafel. Form the balls and place them on a baking sheet in the freezer for about an hour, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. When ready, cook directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Conclusion

This oil-free falafel recipe is a healthier, crispy alternative to traditional falafel, making it a great choice for anyone looking to enjoy this classic dish without the extra calories. Whether you’re serving them in wraps, on a salad, or as a snack, these falafel are flavorful, versatile, and easy to make. Plus, they can be prepared in advance and stored for later, making them a perfect option for meal prep. Enjoy the delicious crunch and nutritious ingredients in every bite!

The Best Falafel That Happens to Be Oil-Free

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• Author: Amy
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10-12 minutes (air fryer) or 25 minutes (oven)
• Total Time: 30-40 minutes
• Yield: 12 falafel balls
• Category: Appetizer, Snack, Main Course
• Method: Air Fryer or Oven
• Cuisine: Middle Eastern, Mediterranean
• Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

Enjoy a healthier version of traditional falafel with this oil-free falafel recipe. Made with an air fryer, these crispy, golden falafel are perfect for salads, wraps, or snacks. Enjoy the delightful crunch without the extra calories!

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Ingredients

• 1 cup dried chickpeas (garbanzo beans), soaked for 8+ hours
• ½ cup fresh parsley, roughly chopped
• ½ cup fresh cilantro, roughly chopped
• 6 to 7 fresh mint leaves
• ½ onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp ground flaxseed (or flaxseed meal)
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp ground coriander
• 1 tsp coconut aminos (or regular aminos)
• Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
• Salt to taste

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Instructions

• Soak the Chickpeas:

  • Soak dried chickpeas in a large bowl with water for at least 8 hours or overnight. Drain and rinse the chickpeas.

• Prepare the Mixture:

  • Combine the soaked chickpeas, parsley, cilantro, mint, onion, garlic, ground flaxseed, cumin, coriander, coconut aminos, cayenne pepper (optional), and salt in a food processor.
  • Pulse until the mixture forms a coarse meal that holds together when pressed (but not too mushy).

• Form the Falafel:

  • Using a spoon or ice cream scooper (about ⅛ cup size), shape the mixture into small balls or patties.

• Cook the Falafel:

  • Air Fryer Method: Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Place falafel balls in the basket, ensuring they don’t touch. Cook for 10-12 minutes until golden brown.
  • Oven Method: Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Place falafel on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 25 minutes or until golden brown.

• Serve:

  • Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce, such as hummus or tahini.

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Notes

• Adjust cayenne pepper to your spice preference.
• Substitute mint with dill or basil for a different flavor.
• Add finely chopped vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for extra texture and nutrition.