Crispy on the outside, soft and flavorful inside — falafel is one of the best plant-based comfort foods around. Traditionally deep-fried, falafel can also be made perfectly crisp in the oven or air fryer. You’ll get the same golden crunch without the extra oil or mess.
Why You’ll Love This Falafel Recipe
This version gives you all the flavor and texture of classic falafel — but lighter and healthier. No splattering oil, no greasy feel, and you can still enjoy that satisfying crunch.
Here’s why it works so well:
- Uses dry chickpeas, not canned — for better texture.
- Air-fried or baked for a crisp, golden crust.
- Perfect for meal prep, wraps, or salads.
- Naturally vegan, gluten-free, and high in protein.
Ingredients You’ll Need
You only need a handful of simple, wholesome ingredients to make these falafel balls:
- 1 cup dried chickpeas (soaked overnight)
- ½ small onion, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves
- ½ cup fresh parsley leaves
- ½ cup fresh cilantro leaves
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon coriander
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- 1 tablespoon flour or chickpea flour
- ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for brushing or air fryer)
Step 1: Soak the Chickpeas
Start by soaking 1 cup of dried chickpeas in plenty of cold water overnight. They’ll triple in size and become tender enough to blend.
Do not use canned chickpeas — they’re too soft and will make mushy falafel.
After soaking, drain and pat them dry with a towel.
Step 2: Blend the Falafel Mix
In a food processor, combine:
- Soaked chickpeas
- Onion
- Garlic
- Parsley and cilantro
- Cumin, coriander, salt, and flour
Pulse until the mixture is coarse and grainy — not a smooth paste. It should hold together when pressed between your fingers.
Tip: If the mix feels too wet, add a little more flour.
Step 3: Chill the Mixture
Transfer the falafel mixture to a bowl, cover, and refrigerate for 30–60 minutes.
This step helps the flavors develop and makes it easier to form balls or patties that won’t crumble while baking.
Step 4: Shape and Bake (or Air Fry)
For Baking:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and brush lightly with olive oil.
- Shape the falafel mixture into small balls or patties (about 1½ inches wide).
- Place them on the tray and brush or spray with olive oil.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crisp.
For Air Frying:
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Spray the basket lightly with oil.
- Arrange the falafel in a single layer.
- Cook for 12–14 minutes, shaking halfway, until crisp and golden brown.
Step 5: Make a Quick Tahini Sauce
No falafel is complete without a creamy sauce to dip it in!
Here’s an easy one:
- ¼ cup tahini
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1 garlic clove (minced)
- 2–3 tablespoons water (to thin)
- Pinch of salt
Whisk together until smooth. Adjust consistency with more water if needed.
How to Serve Crispy Falafel
There are endless ways to enjoy your baked falafel!
- Classic Wrap: Tuck falafel into pita bread with lettuce, tomato, cucumber, and tahini sauce.
- Falafel Bowl: Serve with rice, roasted veggies, and a drizzle of yogurt dressing.
- Snack Style: Enjoy with hummus, pickles, or a fresh side salad.
Serving Tip: Falafel tastes best when slightly warm and paired with something fresh and tangy.
Storage & Reheating
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freeze: Freeze uncooked falafel balls on a tray, then transfer to a freezer bag — they’ll keep for up to 3 months.
- Reheat: Warm in an oven or air fryer at 350°F for 5–7 minutes to keep them crispy.
Extra Tips for Perfect Non-Fried Falafel
- Don’t skip chilling the mixture — it helps them hold shape.
- Use just enough oil to lightly coat; too much makes them soggy.
- For extra crunch, bake on a preheated baking sheet.
- Add a pinch of baking soda right before baking for lighter texture.
Final Thoughts
Making crispy falafel without frying is easier than you think — and the results are every bit as delicious. These golden bites are crunchy, flavorful, and perfect for healthy meals any day of the week.
Soak, blend, bake, and enjoy — no frying required, just wholesome flavor and satisfying crunch in every bite.
✨ Save this recipe for later and share it with a friend who loves Middle Eastern food! 🌿🥙
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