Air Fryer Falafel

Steps

1. Soak the dry chickpeas in water overnight for at least 12 hours until fully hydrated.
2. Drain off the water and transfer the chickpeas to a clean towel, rolling them around to remove excess moisture.
3. Dump the soaked chickpeas into a food processor along with one clove of onion, one clove of garlic, parsley, basil, lemon zest, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
4. Pulse everything until the mixture comes together, aiming for a texture that is not totally smooth or coarse, but somewhere in between.
5. Spray the air fryer basket with oil. Use a tablespoon to scoop the falafel into small balls, ensuring they are evenly spread out in the air fryer.
6. Set the air fryer temperature to 370°F and cook for 7 minutes.
7. While the falafel cooks, make the sauce: In a mortar and pestle, bash one clove of garlic with fresh oregano until a paste forms. Add tahini paste (most of your base), lemon juice, mayo (or yogurt) for creaminess, salt, and pepper to taste.
8. Slowly pour in water while mixing to thin the sauce to the proper consistency.
9. After 7 minutes, spray the falafel with a quick coat of oil. Return them to the air fryer at 370°F for an additional 3 minutes.