1-First Step: Start by placing 2 cups of dried chickpeas in a large bowl and covering them with plenty of water. Ensure they are submerged by at least 3 inches, as they will expand significantly. Let them soak for 18-24 hours at room temperature. This long soaking period softens the chickpeas while maintaining their structure, which is crucial for achieving the right texture in your healthy air fryer falafel.

2-Second Step: After soaking, drain the chickpeas thoroughly and pat them dry with paper towels. Any excess moisture can make the mixture too wet, causing the falafel to fall apart during cooking. This step might seem tedious, but it’s worth the extra effort for perfectly shaped patties.

3-Third Step: Place the soaked and dried chickpeas in a food processor along with the chopped garlic, onion, parsley, cilantro, ground coriander, ground cumin, salt, black pepper, and cayenne. (Save the baking powder for now it gets added just before cooking.) Pulse the mixture for about 20 seconds, then scrape down the sides of the bowl. Repeat this process until all ingredients are well combined but not mushy. You want a coarse texture with visible small pieces, not a smooth paste.

4-Fourth Step: Transfer the mixture to a bowl and refrigerate for 45-60 minutes. This chilling time is essential as it allows the flavors to meld and helps the mixture firm up, making it easier to shape into uniform balls or patties.

5-Fifth Step: Remove the chilled mixture from the refrigerator. If using baking powder for lighter falafel, add 1 teaspoon now and mix it in gently. Shape the mixture into balls or patties using an ice cream scoop or your hands. If the mixture sticks to the scoop or your hands, spray them lightly with olive oil first. Aim for uniform size to ensure even cooking about 1-2 tablespoons per ball.

6-Sixth Step: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). While it heats, lightly spray the falafel balls with cooking spray and do the same with the air fryer basket. This small amount of oil is crucial for achieving that crispy exterior everyone loves in falafel.

7-Seventh Step: Place the falafel in the air fryer basket in a single layer, leaving space between each piece for air circulation. Cook for 10 minutes, then carefully flip each falafel and cook for another 5 minutes until golden brown and crispy on all sides. Work in batches if needed rather than overcrowding the basket.

8-Final Step: Serve your air fryer falafel hot while they’re at their crispest. They’re delicious on their own as a snack, but try them in pita pockets with fresh vegetables and tahini sauce, as part of a Mediterranean platter with hummus and tabbouleh, or even on top of a fresh salad. These versatile patties also make excellent burger patties or pizza toppings for a creative twist on traditional favorites.