Crispy Roasted Chickpeas (Oven & Air Fryer)

Are you looking for a nutritious and addictive snack that is both easy to make and incredibly delicious? Look no further than perfectly roasted chickpeas! Whether you're a health-conscious snacker or just enjoy trying new flavors, this ultimate guide will show you how to achieve crispy, golden-brown chickpeas every single time.

Why roast chickpeas?

Roasting chickpeas is not only a great way to enjoy a protein-packed treat, but it also opens the door to endless flavor possibilities. Despite their simplicity, roasted chickpeas boast a satisfying crispy texture that rivals that of popular crunchy snacks like chips. Additionally, they're amazingly adaptable, able to take on a wide variety of your favorite flavors. Chickpeas, also known as garbanzo beans, are a nutrient-dense legume that are rich in fiber, protein, and essential vitamins and minerals. They offer numerous health benefits, including improved digestion, reduced cholesterol levels, and increased satiety.

Health benefits of roasted chickpeas

Roasted chickpeas are a healthier alternative to traditional snacks like chips and cookies. By roasting chickpeas, you can transform them into a crispy and crunchy snack that satisfies your cravings without the guilt. These golden nuggets are low in fat and calories, making them an excellent choice for weight management. Additionally, chickpeas are a great source of plant-based protein, making them ideal for vegetarians and vegans.

How to prepare chickpeas for roasting

Before you begin the roasting process, it's important to properly prepare the chickpeas. Start by rinsing and draining canned chickpeas to remove any excess salt or preservatives. If you're using dried chickpeas, soak them overnight and then cook them until they are tender. Once the chickpeas are ready, pat them dry using a clean kitchen towel or paper towels. Removing excess moisture will help them achieve a crispy texture during roasting.

Oven method for Crispy Roasted Chickpeas

• Start by preheating your oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C), adjusting the rack to the middle position.
• Rinse and dry 2 cans of chickpeas thoroughly using a paper towel until completely dry.
• Remove any loose chickpea skins for better taste, although this step is optional.
• In a bowl, stir chickpeas with olive oil and a good pinch of salt until well coated.
• Spread the chickpeas in a single layer on a rimmed baking sheet lined with parchment paper or foil.
• Roast in the preheated oven for 20 to 35 minutes, shaking the baking sheet every 10 minutes, until crisp and golden brown.
• As the chickpeas cool, season to taste with your preferred spices. Enjoy!
• Once cooled completely, store your roasted chickpeas in an air-tight container.

Air Fryer method for Crispy Roasted Chickpeas

To prepare Crispy Roasted Chickpeas using an Air Fryer, follow these steps:

• Start by draining and patting dry cooked chickpeas.
• Toss them in a mixing bowl with a choice of Mediterranean or Indian spice blend.
• Mix in olive oil, lemon juice, and salt.
• Spread the chickpeas evenly in the fryer basket.
• Cook at 375°F for 12-15 minutes until they become crispy and lightly golden brown.
• Check on them in the final 5 minutes for preferred crispiness.

Are Chickpeas healthy?

• They are high in fiber, they are an excellent snack for people with diabetes, as it is shown that it reduces blood glucose levels.
• They are great for bone health because they contain iron, phosphate, calcium, magnesium, zinc and vitamin K. Which are all shown to improve bone strength and structure.
• Vitamin K also helps your body absorb calcium, which is great if you have osteoporosis.
• Chickpeas are low-sodium, which is great for keeping your blood pressure low.
• High fiber is shown to help cholesterol
• Chickpeas contain the mineral selenium which helps reduce cancer risk

Tips for achieving the perfect texture of roasted chickpeas

To achieve the perfect texture for your roasted chickpeas, there are a few key tips to keep in mind:

1. Dry Thoroughly: Make sure to pat the chickpeas dry after rinsing or cooking them. Excess moisture can hinder the crisping process.

2. Even Coating: Ensure that each chickpea is evenly coated with oil and seasonings. This will result in a consistent flavor and texture.

3. Single Layer: Spread the chickpeas in a single layer on the baking sheet to allow for proper airflow and even roasting.

4. Don't Rush: Avoid turning up the heat to speed up the cooking process. Slow and steady roasting at a moderate temperature will yield the best results.

By following these tips, you'll be able to achieve perfectly roasted chickpeas with a satisfying crunch.

Serving suggestions for Crispy Roasted Chickpeas.

Here's how you can enjoy Crispy Roasted Chickpeas:

• Try grabbing a handful of these high-protein, high-fiber snacks, for a quick, nutritious munch.
• Crush roasted chickpeas and use them as a topping for homemade hummus, adding an extra layer of texture and flavor.
• Sprinkle them over your salads to turn them into meal-worthy bowls. Consider adding roasted chickpeas to your Greek pasta salad or a Panzanella salad to replace the bread.
• Use them as an exciting garnish over soups and pasta dishes, delivering that extra crunch and fiber. Think about adding them to your favorite garlic lemon pasta.
• You can take your wraps to the next level by stuffing them with these crispy chickpeas. A grilled eggplant halloumi wrap with roasted chickpeas sounds heavenly!

Can you use dried chickpeas instead of canned?

Yes, you can certainly use dried chickpeas instead of canned for making homemade crispy roasted chickpeas. To use dried chickpeas:

• Soak them in water for around 24 hours, allowing them to double in size.
• After soaking, drain and dry thoroughly before baking.
• Season the chickpeas with your favorite spices after they're roasted for enhancing flavor.

It's important to note that using dried chickpeas may result in a crunchier texture compared to canned chickpeas. Remember to adjust the cooking time based on chickpea's size and the moisture content. Enjoy your homemade crispy roasted chickpeas!

Can I make these Roasted Chickpeas in different flavors?

This Spicy Air-fry Roasted Chickpeas recipe is super versatile because you can really use any seasoning you want. I chose a very simple basic blend because I was in the mood for something spicy, but you can follow the same technique and create your own flavors. The flavor possibilities are endless!

• Cheesy – When they’re done roasting, toss with a little bit of olive oil, nutritional yeast, and salt. You can also add garlic or onion powder to your cheesy roasted chickpeas.
• Curried – Curry powder, garlic, onion, and salt make tasty, spiced. 
• Chili-Lime – toss with lime juice, chili powder, and garlic powder and onion powder.
• Spiced Maple - Paprika, black pepper, and maple syrup mix everything together.
• Ranch  -  ranch seasoning mix ( store bought)

Are Chickpeas and Garbanzo beans the same?

Yes, chickpeas and garbanzo beans are indeed the same legume. They are just two different names for the same plant. As an example, when you're enjoying hummus, you're actually consuming blended chickpeas, also known as garbanzo beans. Remember, whether you refer to them as chickpeas or garbanzo beans, they're packed with protein, fiber, and carbohydrates. One cup of these power-packed legumes fulfills nearly one third of an adult's daily protein needs, according to the USDA. Make sure to include them in your shopping list, whether you're making a Mediterranean salad or a delicious hummus dip.

How To Store Roasted Chickpeas

• Store your roasted chickpeas in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days.
• Crack the container slightly to maintain their crispiness.
• If you love their crunchiness, enjoy them within 48 hours of roasting.
• To re-crisp them, simply put them back in the oven for 2-5 minutes.
• Freeze cooled chickpeas in an airtight container for up to a month. Thaw at room temperature.
• Avoid refrigeration to prevent them from getting chewy.
• Use the correct storage methods to enjoy the intense, nutty flavor of your chickpeas.

Looking for more options to use Chickpeas?

We have a lot of recipes that use Chickpeas as the primary ingredient. Check out a few notable ones

• Restaurant Style Chana Masala
• Chickpea Spinach wraps
• Pindi Chole
• Grilled Falafel Sandwich
• ZA' ATAR Hummus
• Homemade Hummus Trio

In conclusion, perfectly roasted chickpeas are a nutritious and addictive snack that can easily be customized to suit your taste preferences. With their crunchy texture and endless flavor possibilities, they are sure to become a staple in your snacking repertoire. Whether you enjoy them as a standalone snack or incorporate them into your favorite recipes, roasted chickpeas offer a healthy and satisfying alternative to traditional snacks. So, why not give them a try and elevate your snacking game today?

Remember to experiment with different flavors and seasonings to find your perfect combination. Enjoy the process of roasting chickpeas and have fun discovering new ways to enjoy this nutritious and delicious snack. Happy roasting!

Looking for more recipes using the Air Fryer?

• Plantain/banana chips,
• Apple Chips,
• Kurkure Bhindi (Air fried Okra),
• Korean cauliflower are just a few recipes that you can make in your Air Frier. These are healthier versions of the deep fried ones.