Crispy Pan-Fried Chickpeas

This recipe for Crispy Pan-Fried Chickpeas is a nutritious snack option that can be served in countless ways. It is seasoned with Horn of Africa spice blend, a bit of salt and chili flakes for a quick and easy alternative way to satisfy a craving for a bag of chips. These delicious chickpeas are crispy on the outside and perfectly tender on the inside. You may sprinkle on avocado toast, add them to salads buddha bowls, curry bowls and more. Serves 2

 

INGREDIENTS
Legumes + Cooking Oil:
1  can (15.5oz, 439g) Unsalted Chickpeas
2  tablespoons High Heat Cooking Oil, of choice

Seasonings:
1  teaspoon Horn of Africa spice blend
½ teaspoon Fine Himalayan Pink Salt, or to taste
¼ teaspoon Red Pepper flakes, or to taste
MISE EN PLACE
  • Drain and rinse chickpeas. Drain the canned chickpeas using a colander to remove all the liquid. Rinse them with cold water and gently rub between your hands to remove the thin layer of skin. 
  • Transfer chickpeas into a large non-stick frying pan in a single layer and add oil. Set aside until you are ready to cook. (There's no need to  pat them dry with a towel if you heat the chickpeas and oil together in the frying pan. This also prevents oil splatters and avoids burning your skin.)
  • Gather and measure spices/seasonings. Mix all the spices and seasonings in a pinch bowl and set aside.
  • Place 2 layers of paper towels on a large heat resistant plate for cooling and draining excess oil. Set aside.
    COOKING METHOD
    1. Heat the frying pan along with chickpeas and oil on a medium flame. Once the pan is hot and the oil begins to sizzle, stir with a spatula to coat them in oil and let the chickpeas cook for a couple of minutes without stirring.
    2. Stir-fry chickpeas until golden brown. Gently stir again turning the chickpeas to brown them on another side. Keep stirring every minute or so until the chickpeas are mostly golden brown and some begin to split open.
    3. Add the spices and seasonings. Stir well to combine.
    4. Keep stirring until the spices are fragrant.
    5. Turn off the heat and immediately transfer the chickpeas onto a paper-towel-lined plate.
    6. Taste and adjust salt to your liking (while it's still hot), then allow them to cool before snacking.
    7. Enjoy!