Can I Cook Falafel in an Air Fryer The Ultimate Guide

Yes, you can cook falafel in an air fryer—and it’s a game-changer for crispy, oil-free results. With the right technique, your falafel will turn out golden, tender, and evenly cooked in under 15 minutes, making it a healthier and faster alternative to frying. No flipping, minimal mess, and maximum flavor—perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep.

Key Takeaways

• Yes, air fryers cook falafel perfectly with less oil and crispier results than baking.
• Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for even cooking and ideal texture.
• Use a single layer to ensure air circulation and uniform browning every time.
• Lightly spray with oil to enhance crispiness without making falafel greasy.
• Cook in batches if needed to avoid overcrowding and maintain quality.
• Check doneness at 10 minutes and shake the basket for even crisping.
• Store leftovers easily—air-fried falafel stays crispy when reheated properly.

Why Air-Fried Falafel Is a Game Changer

Let’s be honest: traditional falafel is delicious, but the deep-frying process? Not so much. I remember the first time I tried making falafel at home. I followed a recipe to the letter, dropped those little green patties into hot oil, and ended up with splattered stovetops, smoky kitchens, and a lingering smell that stuck to my curtains for days. I loved the flavor, but the mess and guilt from all that oil made me hesitate to make them again. Then, a friend suggested I try can I cook falafel in an air fryer? At first, I was skeptical. How could a machine that uses hot air possibly replicate the crisp, golden exterior of deep-fried falafel?

But after a few trials (and yes, a couple of crumbly disappointments), I discovered the answer is a resounding yes. Not only can you cook falafel in an air fryer, but you can do it with less oil, less mess, and often better results. Whether you’re health-conscious, short on time, or just tired of cleaning up after frying, air fryer falafel might be your new go-to. In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know—from choosing the right ingredients to nailing the perfect texture—so you can make air-fried falafel that’s crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and totally guilt-free.

How Air Fryers Work (And Why They’re Perfect for Falafel)

The Science Behind the Crisp

Air fryers don’t actually fry. Instead, they use rapid hot air circulation (convection) to cook food. A heating element warms the air, and a powerful fan pushes it around the food at high speed. This creates a Maillard reaction—the same browning process that happens during frying—but with just a fraction of the oil. The result? Food that’s crispy on the outside and moist within, all without submerging it in oil.

This makes the air fryer ideal for falafel. The key to great falafel is a crisp crust and a fluffy interior. Traditional frying achieves this by sealing the outside quickly, but it also absorbs a lot of oil. With an air fryer, you get that same crispness using just a light spray or brush of oil (usually 1–2 teaspoons per batch), cutting calories and fat by up to 80%.

Benefits Beyond Health

• Less mess: No splattering oil or sticky residue. Just wipe down the basket.
• Faster cleanup: Most air fryer baskets are non-stick and dishwasher-safe.
• Energy efficiency: Air fryers heat up faster than ovens and use less electricity.
• Consistency: Even heat distribution means fewer burnt or undercooked spots.

For example, I once made a double batch of falafel for a family dinner. With a traditional fryer, I’d have needed two large pots of oil, constant monitoring, and a kitchen that smelled like a street vendor for days. With my air fryer, I cooked all 20 patties in two batches, wiped the basket with a damp cloth, and had the whole thing done in 25 minutes. No stress, no smoke, and everyone asked for seconds.

Choosing the Right Falafel Mix (Fresh vs. Frozen vs. Premade)

Homemade Falafel: The Gold Standard

If you’re asking can I cook falafel in an air fryer and want the best flavor, go homemade. Fresh falafel made from soaked chickpeas (never canned!) has a vibrant, herbaceous taste that premade mixes can’t match. Here’s a quick rundown of what you need:

• 2 cups dried chickpeas (soaked overnight, drained)
• 1 small onion, roughly chopped
• 4 garlic cloves
• 1 cup fresh parsley and/or cilantro
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp ground coriander
• 1/2 tsp baking soda (key for fluffiness)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Blend everything (except baking soda) in a food processor until crumbly, not pasty. Mix in baking soda, then chill the dough for at least 30 minutes. This helps it hold its shape during cooking. Shape into 16–20 patties or balls (use a 1-tbsp scoop for consistency).

Frozen Falafel: A Handy Shortcut

Short on time? Frozen falafel can work great in an air fryer. Look for brands with simple ingredients (chickpeas, herbs, spices) and minimal fillers. I’ve had good luck with brands like Dr. Praeger’s and O Organics. Just avoid those with breadcrumbs or excessive oil—they can become soggy. Pro tip: Let frozen falafel thaw slightly (5–10 minutes) before cooking. This helps them crisp evenly without burning the outside while the inside stays cold.

Premade Mixes: When You Need Speed

Premade falafel mixes (like Sabra or Baba’s) are a lifesaver on busy nights. Just add water, shape, and air fry. They’re not as flavorful as homemade, but they’re reliable. I keep a box in my pantry for emergencies. One caveat: Some mixes contain baking powder instead of baking soda. Baking soda is better for air fryers because it reacts faster with the heat, creating a lighter texture. If your mix uses baking powder, add 1/4 tsp extra baking soda to the dough.

Step-by-Step: How to Air Fry Falafel Perfectly

Prep the Dough (For Homemade)

After chilling your falafel dough, shape it into 1/2-inch-thick patties or 1-inch balls. Don’t overpack—gently press to avoid cracking. If the dough feels too wet, add a spoonful of chickpea flour (besan). Too dry? Add a splash of cold water. Place patties on a parchment-lined tray and lightly spray or brush with oil (olive, avocado, or grapeseed work well). Let them sit for 5 minutes so the oil adheres.

Preheat the Air Fryer

Always preheat your air fryer for 3–5 minutes at 375°F (190°C). This ensures even cooking from the start. I learned this the hard way—my first batch went in cold and ended up soggy. Now I set a timer while I shape the falafel.

Arrange and Cook

• Spray the air fryer basket with oil (prevents sticking).
• Place falafel in a single layer, leaving space between each (usually 6–8 patties per batch).
• Lightly spray the tops with oil (this boosts crispness).
• Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Watch closely! Cooking time varies by air fryer model and patty size. Mine (a 5.8-quart Cosori) takes 13 minutes, but a smaller basket might need 15. The falafel is done when golden brown and slightly firm to the touch. If you’re unsure, cut one open—the inside should be moist but not raw.

Pro Tips for Crispiness

• Don’t overcrowd: Air needs to circulate. Cook in batches if needed.
• Flip halfway: Use tongs or a spatula to gently flip. This ensures even browning.
• Use parchment liners: Optional, but they prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
• Add a splash of water: If the outside is browning too fast, lightly mist the basket with water (1–2 sprays) to slow it down.

For Frozen or Premade Falafel

Follow package instructions, but adjust as needed. Most frozen falafel cook at 360°F (182°C) for 10–12 minutes. Flip halfway. Premade mixes usually need 12–14 minutes at 375°F (190°C). Always check for crispness and internal temperature (165°F/74°C for safety).

Common Mistakes (And How to Fix Them)

Problem: Falafel Falls Apart

This is the #1 issue I see. Causes and fixes:

• Dough too wet: Chill longer (up to 2 hours) or add chickpea flour.
• Overmixing: Pulse ingredients just until combined—don’t turn it into a paste.
• No binder: Add 1–2 tbsp chickpea flour or 1 egg (for vegan, use 1 tbsp flaxseed + 3 tbsp water).

Once, I rushed the chilling step and my patties crumbled mid-cook. Now I chill for at least 30 minutes—it makes all the difference.

Problem: Soggy or Pale Exterior

• Not enough oil: Lightly spray both sides. Oil helps the Maillard reaction.
• Low temperature: Cook at 375°F (190°C) or higher. Lower temps steam instead of crisp.
• Overcrowding: Leave space for air flow.

I once cooked 12 patties in a 4-quart basket. They came out pale and chewy. Lesson learned: 6–8 max for even cooking.

Problem: Dry or Dense Interior

• Overbaking: Check at 10 minutes. Falafel continues cooking after removing from the air fryer.
• No baking soda: This creates air pockets. Don’t skip it!
• Over-blending: Pulse until crumbly, not smooth.

My first attempt had falafel like hockey pucks. Adding baking soda and reducing blending time fixed it instantly.

Flavor Variations, Serving Ideas, and Leftover Hacks

Flavor Boosters

Falafel is a blank canvas. Try these mix-ins (add to dough before shaping):

• Spicy: 1–2 diced jalapeños + 1 tsp harissa paste
• Smoky: 1 tsp smoked paprika + 1/2 tsp cumin
• Herb-heavy: Add mint or dill
• Umami: 1 tbsp nutritional yeast + 1/2 tsp soy sauce

I once made “falafel burgers” with smoked paprika and served them on brioche buns. My meat-eating brother said they were better than beef patties!

Serving Ideas

• Classic pita: Warm pita, hummus, tahini, lettuce, tomato, cucumber.
• Buddha bowl: Quinoa, roasted veggies, falafel, tzatziki.
• Salad topper: Crumble over a Greek salad.
• Appetizer: Skewer with cherry tomatoes and feta.

For a party, I make mini falafel (1/2-inch balls) and serve with 3 dips: tahini, garlic yogurt, and roasted red pepper.

Leftovers? No Problem!

Air-fried falafel keeps well. Here’s how to store:

• Fridge: 3–4 days in an airtight container.
• Freeze: Place cooled falafel on a tray, freeze until solid, then transfer to a bag. Cook from frozen (add 2–3 minutes to cooking time).

Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5–7 minutes. Avoid the microwave—it makes them soggy.

Storage Method	Duration	Reheating Tip
Fridge (cooked)	3–4 days	Air fry 5–7 min at 350°F
Freezer (uncooked dough)	1 month	Thaw 30 min, then cook as usual
Freezer (cooked)	3 months	Cook from frozen (add 2–3 min)

The Verdict: Yes, You Can (And Should) Air Fry Falafel

So, can you cook falafel in an air fryer? Absolutely. After years of testing, I can say with confidence: air fryer falafel is not just a compromise—it’s often better than the fried version. You get the same satisfying crunch, the same herby aroma, and the same versatility, but with less oil, less mess, and more control. It’s faster, cleaner, and kinder to your waistline.

The key is understanding your tools and ingredients. Whether you’re using homemade dough, frozen patties, or a premade mix, the air fryer adapts. Just remember the basics: chill your dough, don’t overcrowd, flip halfway, and don’t skip the oil spray. And if something goes wrong? Don’t give up. I’ve had my share of crumbly, soggy, or burnt batches. Every mistake taught me something new.

Now, when friends ask me can I cook falafel in an air fryer, I don’t just say yes—I hand them a plate of crispy, golden falafel and watch their faces light up. It’s one of those little kitchen wins that reminds you why cooking at home matters. So grab your air fryer, some chickpeas, and a handful of herbs. Your perfect falafel is just 15 minutes away. And trust me, your taste buds (and your kitchen) will thank you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I cook falafel in an air fryer without using oil?

Yes, you can cook falafel in an air fryer with little to no oil. The air fryer’s circulating hot air crisps the outside while keeping the inside moist, though a light spray of oil enhances texture.

How long does it take to air fry falafel?

Air frying falafel typically takes 12–15 minutes at 375°F (190°C). Flip or shake the basket halfway through for even browning and crispiness.

Do I need to preheat the air fryer for falafel?

Preheating your air fryer for 3–5 minutes ensures consistent cooking and better crispiness. While not mandatory, it helps achieve restaurant-quality falafel with a golden crust.

Can I cook frozen falafel in an air fryer?

Yes, frozen falafel can be cooked in an air fryer directly. Increase cook time by 2–3 minutes and avoid thawing to maintain shape and texture.

Why is my air fryer falafel dry or crumbly?

Overcooking or using a falafel mix with too little binder (like chickpea flour) can cause dryness. Try reducing cook time by 1–2 minutes or adding a touch of water to the mix.

Can I make gluten-free falafel in an air fryer?

Absolutely! Use gluten-free chickpea flour or almond flour in your falafel mix. The air fryer cooks gluten-free falafel just as well, with no compromise on taste or texture.