- Prepare the Lentil and Tomato Sauce Filling:
- Rinse the lentils under cold water and drain.
- In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and garlic, and cook until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add the lentils, diced tomatoes, vegetable or chicken broth, ground cumin, paprika, dried oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer, uncovered, for 20-25 minutes, or until the lentils are tender and the sauce has thickened.
- Adjust seasoning as needed. Let the mixture cool slightly.
- Prepare the Falafel Mixture:
- If using dried chickpeas, soak them in water overnight. Drain and rinse before using.
- Place the chickpeas, chopped onion, minced garlic, parsley, and cilantro in a food processor. Process until finely ground but not pureed.
- Add the ground cumin, ground coriander, baking powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using). Pulse to combine.
- If the mixture is too loose, add flour, a tablespoon at a time, until it holds together when shaped into balls.
- Stuff and Shape the Falafel:
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Take a small portion of the falafel mixture and flatten it in your hand. Place a teaspoon of the lentil and tomato sauce filling in the center and fold the edges of the falafel mixture around the filling, sealing it well. Shape into a ball or patty.
- Repeat with the remaining mixture and filling.
- Cook the Falafel:
- Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray or brush with oil.
- Arrange the stuffed falafel balls in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure they are not touching.
- Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes, turning halfway through, until golden brown and crispy on the outside.
- Serve:
- Serve the falafel warm with pita bread or flatbreads, tahini sauce, and fresh vegetables. Pickles make a great addition too!
Tips for Success
- Consistent Size: Make sure all the falafel balls are of similar size for even cooking.
- Chickpea Prep: If using canned chickpeas, ensure they are well-drained to avoid excess moisture in the falafel mixture.
- Cooling: Allow the lentil filling to cool slightly before stuffing to prevent it from making the falafel mixture too wet.
Variations
- Vegetable Filling: Substitute the lentil and tomato sauce with a mixture of sautéed vegetables for a different flavor profile.
- Spiced Up: Add more spices such as turmeric or chili powder to the falafel mixture for extra flavor.
- Herbs: Experiment with different herbs like mint or dill for a unique twist.
Storage and Reheating
- Storage: Store leftover falafel in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3-5 minutes to maintain crispiness. You can also reheat in a conventional oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes.
Enjoy these flavorful Falafel Stuffed with Lentils and Tomato Sauce as a satisfying and nutritious meal. They make for a fantastic lunch or dinner option, packed with protein and deliciousness!