Falafel, a popular Middle Eastern dish, has been cherished for its rich flavour and delightful texture. Our twist on this classic dish is the crispy falafel-style lentil nuggets, which are not only a treat for the taste buds but also healthy and easy to make using an air fryer. Perfect for a light snack, meal prep, or as a standout addition to any meal, these nuggets are sure to impress.
Ingredients Needed
- 1 cup uncooked lentils, rinsed and soaked for 2-3 hours
- 1 medium onion, coarsely chopped
- 2-3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh coriander, chopped
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp ground coriander
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional for a bit of heat)
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2-3 tbsp flour (or chickpea flour for a gluten-free option)
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for brushing)
Instructions
- Preheat your air fryer to 180°C (350°F).
- Drain the soaked lentils well and add them to a food processor along with the onion, garlic, parsley, and coriander.
- Pulse the mixture until it reaches a coarse crumb-like texture, being mindful not to over-process into a paste.
- Transfer the mixture to a bowl and add the cumin, ground coriander, cayenne pepper, baking powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Sprinkle the flour into the mixture and combine until the ingredients hold together. Adjust with a bit more flour if necessary.
- Shape the mixture into small nugget-sized patties.
- Lightly brush each nugget with olive oil on all sides.
- Place the nuggets in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring there's space between them. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook in batches.
- Air fry for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown and crispy, flipping halfway through the cooking time for even browning.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these delightful lentil nuggets with a side of tahini sauce or hummus for dipping. They also pair well with fresh veggies, pita, or a salad for a complete meal.
Storage Tips
To store, allow the nuggets to cool completely before placing them in an airtight container. They can be refrigerated for 3-4 days or frozen for up to a month. Reheat in an air fryer for a quick and easy snack.
Why Use an Air Fryer?
Using an air fryer is a great way to achieve a crispy texture with minimal oil. It’s not only convenient but also a healthier cooking option, reducing the overall fat content of the dish without sacrificing flavour.
Conclusion
With its delicious blend of spices and herbs, these crispy falafel-style lentil nuggets offer a fantastic alternative to traditional falafels. Easy to prepare, rich in flavour, and air-fried to perfection, this recipe is a delightful addition to your culinary repertoire.
Try this recipe today for an exciting twist on classic falafel, and enjoy a satisfying dish that you can feel great about serving to family and friends!