Roasted Chickpeas – A Crunchy Vegan Delight

Looking for a wholesome and flavorful vegan snack? Look no further than these roasted chickpeas! Packed with protein, fiber, and a burst of delicious seasonings, these crunchy chickpeas are not only satisfying but also incredibly easy to make. Whether you’re looking for an afternoon pick-me-up or a guilt-free party snack, these roasted chickpeas are sure to be a hit.

How Long Can Roasted Chickpeas Be Stored in the Fridge and Can They Be Made in Advance?

Roasted chickpeas can be stored in the fridge for up to one week. To maintain their crispiness, it’s essential to store them in an airtight container to prevent moisture from affecting their texture. While they are best enjoyed fresh, you can certainly make them in advance for convenience. Roasted chickpeas are an excellent make-ahead snack for parties, picnics, or simply to have a healthy snack readily available. Just ensure they cool completely before storing, and if needed, you can re-crisp them in the oven before serving to restore their delightful crunch.

Special Equipment for Roasted Chickpeas Recipe

One of the fantastic aspects of making roasted chickpeas is that you don’t need any special equipment. The essentials are likely already in your kitchen: an oven, a baking sheet, and basic kitchen utensils. However, for optimal results, it’s recommended to have a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. This not only prevents sticking but also aids in easy cleanup. Additionally, having a kitchen towel or paper towels on hand for drying the chickpeas before seasoning can significantly contribute to achieving that coveted crispy texture. So, while no specialized gadgets are necessary, having these kitchen basics will make your roasted chickpea-making process smoother.

Serving Size for Roasted Chickpeas

The standard serving size for our roasted chickpeas recipe is approximately 1/4 cup. This portion provides a satisfying and crunchy snack that’s perfect for curbing your cravings while maintaining a balanced diet. However, feel free to adjust the serving size according to your preference and dietary needs. Whether you enjoy them by the handful or portion them out for a quick and nutritious snack, these roasted chickpeas are versatile and easily adaptable to your serving requirements.

Roasted Chickpeas

Recipe by Connor GoodaleCourse: SnacksDifficulty: Easy

Servings

4

servings

Prep time

15

minutes

Cooking time

30

minutes

Calories

120

kcal

Ingredients

• 2 cans (15 oz each) of chickpeas, drained, rinsed, and patted dry

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 teaspoon ground cumin

• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)

• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

• Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
• Prep the Chickpeas: After draining and rinsing the chickpeas, place them on a clean kitchen towel or paper towels. Gently pat them dry to remove excess moisture. This step is crucial for achieving maximum crunchiness.
• Seasoning Mixture: In a bowl, combine the olive oil, ground cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Stir well to create a uniform mixture.
• Coating the Chickpeas: Add the dried chickpeas to the bowl with the seasoning mixture. Toss and stir until the chickpeas are evenly coated with the spices.
• Roasting: Spread the seasoned chickpeas in a single layer on a baking sheet. Make sure they’re not too crowded to ensure even roasting. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven.
• Roast the Chickpeas: Roast the chickpeas in the oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Shake the baking sheet or gently stir the chickpeas halfway through the roasting time to ensure they cook evenly.
• Cool and Enjoy: Once roasted to your desired level of crispiness, remove the chickpeas from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes. They will continue to crisp up as they cool. Once cooled, transfer the roasted chickpeas to a bowl and serve.

Notes

• Optimal Drying for Extra Crunchiness: To achieve the ultimate crunchiness in your roasted chickpeas, make sure they are thoroughly dried before seasoning and roasting. After rinsing, spread the chickpeas on a baking sheet lined with paper towels or a clean kitchen towel. Gently roll them around to remove excess moisture. You can even let them air dry for about 10-15 minutes before proceeding with seasoning. This extra step will contribute significantly to the final texture.
• Customized Seasoning Profiles: While the recipe provides a delightful combination of seasonings, feel free to get creative and customize the flavors to match your taste preferences. Experiment with different spices such as turmeric, curry powder, nutritional yeast, or even a touch of lemon zest for a unique twist. Just ensure not to overload the chickpeas with wet seasonings, as this might affect their crispiness.
• Mindful Oven Management: Proper roasting is key to achieving evenly cooked chickpeas. During the roasting process, consider rotating the baking sheet halfway through to ensure uniform browning. If you’re using a convection oven, the air circulation can help enhance the crispiness. Keep a close eye on the chickpeas during the last few minutes of roasting to prevent overcooking and potential burnt spots.
• Double-Baking for Extra Crisp: For an even crispier outcome, consider a two-step baking method. After the initial roast, let the chickpeas cool slightly before returning them to the oven for an additional 5-10 minutes at a slightly lower temperature (around 350°F or 175°C). This double-baking technique can intensify the crunch factor, resulting in an irresistible snack.
• Storing and Re-Crisping: To keep your roasted chickpeas at their best, store them in an airtight container once they have cooled completely. Over time, they might lose some of their crispiness due to humidity. If that happens, don’t worry! You can easily re-crisp them by placing them back in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes. Just make sure not to overdo it, as they can quickly go from crispy to burnt.