Crispy Falafel Bites with Tahini Dip

Falafel is one of those foods that checks all the boxes: it’s crispy, flavorful, filling, and completely plant-based. Traditionally deep-fried, falafel can sometimes feel heavy or greasy, but with an air fryer, you can enjoy the same golden crunch with a fraction of the oil.

These Air Fryer Crispy Falafel Bites with Tahini Dip are bite-sized, protein-packed, and perfect as an appetizer, snack, or even part of a mezze platter. They’re made with chickpeas, herbs, and spices, then air fried until beautifully crisp on the outside and tender on the inside. Pair them with a creamy tahini dip, and you’ve got a Middle Eastern-inspired dish that will win over vegans, vegetarians, and meat-eaters alike.

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Crispy Without Deep Frying: All the crunch, none of the grease.

High-Protein & Vegan-Friendly: Made with chickpeas, herbs, and spices.

Meal-Prep Friendly: Store and reheat easily throughout the week.

Versatile: Serve as an appetizer, snack, or part of a meal.

Authentic Flavors Made Easy: All the Middle Eastern taste, simplified.

Crispy Falafel Bites with Tahini Dip

Recipe by AnuCourse: AppetizersCuisine: Middle EasternDifficulty: Easy

Servings

4

servings

Prep time

15

minutes

Cooking time

12

minutes

Calories

95

kcal

Crispy, golden falafel bites made in the air fryer and served with a smooth, tangy tahini dip.

Ingredients

• For the Falafel:

• 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained & rinsed

• 1/2 cup fresh parsley (loosely packed)

• 1/2 cup fresh cilantro

• 3 cloves garlic

• 1/2 small onion, roughly chopped

• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (or almond flour for gluten-free)

• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour

• 1 tsp ground cumin

• 1 tsp ground coriander

• 1/2 tsp paprika

• 1/2 tsp baking powder

• Salt & pepper to taste

• Olive oil spray

• For the Tahini Dip:

• 1/4 cup tahini

• 2 tbsp lemon juice

• 1 clove garlic, minced

• 2–3 tbsp water

• Salt to taste

Directions

• Make Falafel Mixture:
  In a food processor, combine chickpeas, parsley, cilantro, garlic, onion, breadcrumbs, flour, cumin, coriander, paprika, baking powder, salt, and pepper. Pulse until mixture is combined but still slightly chunky (don’t overblend — you want texture).
• Shape Falafel Bites:
  Scoop out about 1 tablespoon of the mixture at a time and roll into small balls or flatten slightly into patties.
• Preheat Air Fryer:
  Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3 minutes.
• Cook Falafel:
  Lightly spray falafel bites with olive oil. Place in a single layer in the air fryer basket (work in batches if needed). Cook for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden brown and crispy.
• Prepare Tahini Dip:
  In a small bowl, whisk together tahini, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and water until smooth and creamy. Adjust water for desired thickness.
• Serve & Enjoy:
  Arrange falafel bites on a platter with tahini dip, lemon wedges, and fresh parsley. Serve warm.

Notes

• Texture Tip: If mixture feels too wet, add a bit more flour or breadcrumbs.
  No Food Processor? Mash chickpeas with a fork and finely chop herbs/onion — the texture will be a little chunkier but still delicious.
  Make Ahead: Shape falafel balls ahead of time and refrigerate up to 24 hours before air frying.
• Variations
  Spicy Falafel: Add cayenne or chili flakes to the mixture.
  Herb Swap: Try dill or mint for a unique twist.
  Different Dips: Pair with hummus, tzatziki, or a spicy harissa sauce.
  Falafel Wraps: Serve in pita bread with lettuce, tomato, cucumber, and tahini sauce for a fuller meal.

These Air Fryer Crispy Falafel Bites with Tahini Dip are the kind of appetizer that makes everyone happy: crunchy on the outside, tender inside, and full of bold, fresh flavor. Whether you’re serving them as a party starter, a healthy afternoon snack, or part of a mezze platter, they’re sure to be a hit.

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