Chickpea Crunchies
Chickpea Crunchies Recipe from Tunisia - Ingredients: Chickpeas, Salt, Black Pepper, Cumin, Cayenne Pepper
Introduction
Chickpea Crunchies are a delicious and healthy snack that can be enjoyed any time of day. These crunchy little bites are packed with flavor and are sure to satisfy your cravings for something salty and savory.
History
Chickpeas have been a staple in many cuisines for centuries, but the idea of roasting them to create a crunchy snack is a more recent development. This recipe for Chickpea Crunchies is a modern twist on a classic ingredient, perfect for those looking for a nutritious and satisfying snack.
Ingredients
- 2 cups of cooked chickpeas, drained well and blotted dry
- 0.5 tsp of salt (if you used canned beans, reduce or eliminate the salt)
- 0.5 tsp of freshly ground black pepper
- 0.5 tsp of ground cumin
- 0.5 tsp of ground coriander
- 0.25 tsp of cayenne pepper
How to prepare
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (204°C).
- In a bowl, toss the chickpeas with the seasonings until well coated.
- Spread the seasoned chickpeas on a nonstick baking sheet.
- Bake for 30-40 minutes (or 1 hour) until the chickpeas are golden brown and crisp.
- Once done, remove from the oven and let cool.
- The recipe yields about 1.25 cups of chickpea snacks.
- NOTES: Chickpea snacks are always well-received and this recipe from Raichlen is highly recommended. You can use canned chickpeas for convenience.
Variations
- For a different flavor profile, try adding different seasonings to the chickpeas before baking. Some options include garlic powder, onion powder, or smoked paprika.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
To ensure that your Chickpea Crunchies turn out perfectly crispy, be sure to drain and blot dry the chickpeas before seasoning them. This will help them crisp up in the oven and prevent them from becoming soggy. Additionally, be sure to spread the chickpeas out in a single layer on the baking sheet to ensure even cooking.
Serving Suggestions
Chickpea Crunchies can be enjoyed on their own as a snack, or added to salads for an extra crunch. They also make a great topping for soups and stews.
Cooking Techniques
Roasting the chickpeas in the oven at a high temperature helps to crisp them up and bring out their natural flavors. Be sure to keep an eye on them while they bake to prevent burning.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you don't have chickpeas on hand, you can also use other types of beans, such as black beans or kidney beans, in this recipe.
Make Ahead Tips
Chickpea Crunchies can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container for up to a week. They will stay crispy and delicious for days.
Presentation Ideas
Serve Chickpea Crunchies in a small bowl or on a platter for easy snacking. You can also garnish them with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of sea salt for an extra pop of flavor.
Pairing Recommendations
Chickpea Crunchies pair well with a variety of beverages, including beer, wine, or sparkling water. They also make a great addition to a cheese board or charcuterie platter.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store any leftover Chickpea Crunchies in an airtight container at room temperature. To reheat, simply place them in a 350°F (177°C) oven for a few minutes until warmed through.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
Each serving of Chickpea Crunchies contains approximately 120 calories. This makes them a great option for those looking to satisfy their cravings without consuming too many calories.
Carbohydrates
Each serving of Chickpea Crunchies contains approximately 20 grams of carbohydrates. This makes them a great option for those looking to fuel their bodies with energy for the day.
Fats
Chickpea Crunchies are a low-fat snack, with each serving containing only 2 grams of fat. This makes them a healthier alternative to traditional fried snacks.
Proteins
Chickpeas are a great source of plant-based protein, with each serving of Chickpea Crunchies containing approximately 6 grams of protein. This makes them a satisfying and filling snack option.
Vitamins and minerals
Chickpeas are rich in vitamins and minerals, including iron, magnesium, and folate. These nutrients are important for overall health and well-being.
Alergens
Chickpeas are a common allergen for some individuals. If you have a chickpea allergy, be sure to avoid this recipe and opt for a different snack option.
Summary
Overall, Chickpea Crunchies are a nutritious and delicious snack option that can be enjoyed by individuals looking for a healthier alternative to traditional fried snacks.
Summary
Chickpea Crunchies are a delicious and nutritious snack that can be enjoyed by individuals looking for a healthier alternative to traditional fried snacks. With their crispy texture and flavorful seasonings, these little bites are sure to become a new favorite in your snack rotation.
How did I get this recipe?
I remember the thrill of stumbling upon this recipe for Chickpea Crunchies. It was a sunny day in the middle of summer, and I was rummaging through an old recipe book that I had inherited from my own grandmother. As I turned the yellowed pages, my eyes landed on a simple yet intriguing recipe for a snack called Chickpea Crunchies.
The ingredients were basic - just chickpeas, olive oil, salt, and spices - but the method of preparation was unlike anything I had ever seen before. The chickpeas were roasted in the oven until they were crispy and golden brown, then tossed with a fragrant blend of cumin, paprika, and garlic powder. The end result was a delicious, healthy snack that had a satisfying crunch and a burst of flavor.
I was eager to try making the Chickpea Crunchies for myself, so I gathered the ingredients and got to work in the kitchen. As I roasted the chickpeas in the oven, the warm, savory aroma filled the air, making my mouth water in anticipation. When the Chickpea Crunchies were finally done, I couldn't resist sneaking a taste before they had even cooled down.
The first bite was a revelation. The chickpeas were perfectly crispy on the outside, with a tender, nutty interior that melted in my mouth. The spices added a zesty kick that made my taste buds dance with delight. I knew right then and there that this recipe was a keeper.
I shared the Chickpea Crunchies with my family and friends, and they were instantly hooked. Everyone wanted to know how I had come up with such a delicious snack, and I proudly told them about the recipe I had discovered in my grandmother's old recipe book. They were amazed that something so simple could taste so good, and they begged me to make more.
Over the years, I have continued to make the Chickpea Crunchies for special occasions and gatherings. They have become a staple in my repertoire of recipes, and I love watching the smiles on people's faces as they crunch away on this tasty treat. I have even passed the recipe on to my own children, who have now mastered the art of making Chickpea Crunchies themselves.
As I reflect on how I learned to make this recipe, I realize that it is a testament to the power of tradition and family connections. By discovering the Chickpea Crunchies in my grandmother's old recipe book, I not only found a delicious snack to enjoy, but also a link to my past and the generations of cooks who came before me. I am grateful for the gift of this recipe, and I will continue to make and share it for years to come.