Roasted Spiced Chickpeas

Roasted spiced chickpeas have become a staple in our home, and for very good reason! From the moment I first tried whipping up a batch, the aroma alone was enough to get everyone excited. The kids, who are usually picky eaters, surprisingly devoured them straight off the baking sheet, proclaiming them “crunchy and yummy!” My husband and I appreciate them as a healthy and flavorful snack that satisfies our cravings without any guilt. Whether we’re looking for a quick afternoon bite, a crunchy topping for salads, or a side dish to complement our meals, these spiced chickpeas have consistently delivered. They’re incredibly versatile, easy to make, and packed with flavor – truly a winner in our kitchen and I’m excited to share this delightful recipe with you!

Ingredients

• 1 can (15 ounces) chickpeas, also known as garbanzo beans: Provides the base of the recipe, offering a nutty flavor and satisfying texture. Ensure they are drained and rinsed well to remove excess liquid and any metallic taste from the can.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: Helps to coat the chickpeas, promoting crispiness during roasting and adding a rich, subtle flavor. Extra virgin olive oil is recommended for its health benefits and superior taste.
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin: Offers a warm, earthy, and slightly pungent flavor that is characteristic of many Middle Eastern and Indian dishes. It adds depth and complexity to the spice blend.
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: Lends a smoky, slightly sweet, and vibrant red hue to the chickpeas. Smoked paprika enhances the savory notes and creates a more robust flavor profile compared to regular paprika.
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder: Provides a convenient and consistent garlic flavor, adding a savory and aromatic element to the spice blend. Garlic powder disperses evenly and coats the chickpeas effectively.
• ½ teaspoon onion powder: Offers a mild, sweet, and savory onion flavor that complements the garlic and other spices. Onion powder adds another layer of depth and enhances the overall savory taste.
• ½ teaspoon chili powder: Introduces a mild to moderate heat and a complex blend of spices, including chili peppers, cumin, oregano, and garlic. Chili powder adds a touch of warmth and a slightly spicy kick. Adjust the amount to your preference for heat.
• ½ teaspoon salt: Essential for seasoning and enhancing the flavors of all the ingredients. Salt balances the spices and brings out the natural taste of the chickpeas. Use sea salt or kosher salt for best results.
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper: Adds a subtle pungent and slightly spicy note that rounds out the flavor profile. Freshly ground black pepper is recommended for its brighter and more aromatic flavor.

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C): Setting the oven temperature correctly is crucial for achieving perfectly roasted and crispy chickpeas. Preheating ensures the oven is at the optimal temperature when the chickpeas are placed inside, promoting even cooking and crisping.
2. Prepare the chickpeas: Open the can of chickpeas and pour them into a colander. Rinse them thoroughly under cold running water for about 30 seconds. This removes any starchy residue and the liquid from the can, which can hinder crispiness. After rinsing, let them drain in the colander for a few minutes to remove excess water.
3. Dry the chickpeas thoroughly: This step is paramount for achieving crispy roasted chickpeas. Excess moisture is the enemy of crispiness. Spread the drained chickpeas onto a clean kitchen towel or paper towels. Gently pat them dry, removing as much moisture as possible. You can also roll them gently in the towel to help absorb the water. For even better results, you can let them air dry for about 10-15 minutes after patting them dry.
4. Combine chickpeas with olive oil and spices: In a medium-sized bowl, place the dried chickpeas. Drizzle 2 tablespoons of olive oil over them. Toss to coat the chickpeas evenly with the oil. Ensure each chickpea is lightly coated as this helps the spices adhere and promotes even roasting.
5. Add the spices: Sprinkle the ground cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, salt, and black pepper over the oiled chickpeas. Toss again thoroughly to ensure all the chickpeas are evenly coated with the spice mixture. You can use your hands to gently massage the spices into the chickpeas for better distribution.
6. Spread chickpeas on a baking sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup, although this is optional. Spread the spiced chickpeas in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Avoid overcrowding the baking sheet as this can steam the chickpeas instead of roasting them, preventing them from becoming crispy. If necessary, use two baking sheets to ensure they are in a single layer.
7. Roast in the preheated oven: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast for 20-30 minutes. The roasting time may vary slightly depending on your oven and the desired level of crispiness. Check on them after 20 minutes.
8. Stir halfway through: After about 15 minutes of roasting, remove the baking sheet from the oven and stir the chickpeas with a spatula. This helps them to roast evenly on all sides and prevents them from sticking to the baking sheet. Return the baking sheet to the oven and continue roasting for another 10-15 minutes.
9. Check for crispiness: The chickpeas are done when they are golden brown and crispy. To test for crispiness, take a few chickpeas out and let them cool slightly. They will crisp up further as they cool. If they are not crispy enough, you can roast them for another 5-10 minutes, keeping a close eye on them to prevent burning.
10. Cool and enjoy: Once roasted to your desired crispiness, remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the roasted spiced chickpeas cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes. They will continue to crisp up as they cool. Once slightly cooled, they are ready to enjoy! They are best enjoyed warm or at room temperature.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Size: Approximately ¼ cup (about 1/4 of the recipe)
Calories per serving: Approximately 150-180 calories (This can vary slightly based on the brand of chickpeas and olive oil used)

• Protein (6-7 grams per serving): Chickpeas are a good source of plant-based protein, essential for building and repairing tissues, supporting muscle growth, and promoting satiety. Protein helps you feel fuller for longer, which can be beneficial for weight management.
• Fiber (5-6 grams per serving): Roasted spiced chickpeas are high in dietary fiber, which is crucial for digestive health. Fiber aids in regular bowel movements, helps lower cholesterol levels, and stabilizes blood sugar levels. It also contributes to feeling full and satisfied.
• Healthy Fats (8-10 grams per serving): The olive oil contributes healthy monounsaturated fats, which are beneficial for heart health. These fats can help lower bad cholesterol (LDL) and raise good cholesterol (HDL). Healthy fats are also important for brain function and nutrient absorption.
• Iron (Approximately 10% of Daily Value per serving): Chickpeas contain iron, a vital mineral for carrying oxygen throughout the body and preventing anemia. Iron is particularly important for energy levels and overall well-being.
• Manganese (Approximately 20% of Daily Value per serving): Chickpeas are a good source of manganese, an essential trace mineral that plays a role in bone health, wound healing, metabolism, and antioxidant defense. Manganese is important for various enzymatic reactions in the body.

Note: Nutritional values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and serving sizes. For precise nutritional information, use a nutrition calculator with the specific brands and measurements you use.

Preparation Time

Prep time: 10-15 minutes (This includes rinsing, drying, and seasoning the chickpeas). The majority of the prep time is spent ensuring the chickpeas are thoroughly dried, which is essential for achieving optimal crispiness.

Cook time: 20-30 minutes (Roasting time in the oven). The cook time can vary slightly depending on your oven and desired level of crispiness. Keep an eye on them towards the end of the roasting time to prevent burning.

Total time: 30-45 minutes (From start to finish, including preparation and cooking time). This quick and relatively hands-off recipe is perfect for a healthy snack or side dish on busy days.

How to Serve Roasted Spiced Chickpeas

• Snack straight from the oven: Enjoy them warm and crispy right after roasting for a satisfying and flavorful snack. They are delicious on their own and perfect for curbing cravings between meals.
• Salad topping: Sprinkle them over your favorite salads for added crunch, protein, and flavor. They pair well with leafy green salads, grain bowls, or Mediterranean salads.
• Soup garnish: Use them as a crunchy topping for creamy soups like tomato soup, butternut squash soup, or lentil soup. They add texture and a burst of flavor to smooth soups.
• Grain bowl addition: Incorporate them into grain bowls with quinoa, rice, or farro, along with roasted vegetables and a flavorful dressing. They add protein and texture to make grain bowls more substantial and interesting.
• Taco or burrito filling: Use them as a plant-based filling for tacos or burritos, adding a spicy and crunchy element. They can be combined with other fillings like beans, salsa, and avocado.
• Charcuterie board component: Add them to a charcuterie or snack board alongside cheese, crackers, olives, and dried fruit for a healthy and flavorful option.
• Side dish for meals: Serve them as a flavorful side dish alongside grilled chicken, fish, or vegetarian main courses. They complement a wide range of dishes with their savory and spicy profile.
• Mix with trail mix: Add cooled roasted spiced chickpeas to your homemade trail mix for extra crunch, protein, and flavor. They pair well with nuts, seeds, dried fruit, and dark chocolate.

Additional Tips for Perfect Roasted Spiced Chickpeas

1. Don’t skip the drying step: Thoroughly drying the chickpeas is the most crucial step for achieving maximum crispiness. The drier they are before roasting, the crispier they will become. Be patient and ensure they are as dry as possible.
2. Use parchment paper for easy cleanup (optional): Lining your baking sheet with parchment paper makes cleanup a breeze and prevents the chickpeas from sticking. However, roasting directly on the baking sheet can sometimes promote even better crispiness.
3. Spread in a single layer: Ensure the chickpeas are spread in a single layer on the baking sheet. Overcrowding will cause them to steam rather than roast, resulting in soggy chickpeas. Use two baking sheets if necessary to avoid overcrowding.
4. Adjust spices to your preference: Feel free to customize the spice blend to your liking. Experiment with different spices like curry powder, Italian seasoning, ranch seasoning, or za’atar. You can also adjust the amount of chili powder for more or less heat.
5. Roast until golden brown and crispy: Roast the chickpeas until they are golden brown and crispy. The roasting time may vary slightly depending on your oven, so keep an eye on them towards the end and adjust the time as needed.
6. Let them cool completely for maximum crispiness: Roasted chickpeas will continue to crisp up as they cool. Allow them to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before serving for the best texture.
7. Store leftovers properly: Store leftover roasted spiced chickpeas in an airtight container at room temperature. They will lose some of their crispiness over time, but can be refreshed by briefly reheating them in a dry pan or oven.
8. Add a squeeze of lemon juice after roasting: For an extra burst of flavor, squeeze a bit of fresh lemon juice over the roasted chickpeas right after they come out of the oven. The acidity of the lemon juice brightens the spices and adds a refreshing tang.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Roasted Spiced Chickpeas

Q1: Can I use different types of beans for this recipe?
A: While chickpeas are ideal for roasting due to their texture and flavor, you can experiment with other beans like cannellini beans or black beans. However, the roasting time and texture may vary. Chickpeas generally yield the best crispy result.

Q2: Can I make these ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can roast spiced chickpeas ahead of time. They are best enjoyed within a few hours of roasting for optimal crispiness. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-3 days. They may lose some crispness over time, but can be refreshed by reheating.

Q3: How do I make sure they are extra crispy?
A: The key to extra crispy roasted chickpeas is thorough drying. Ensure you rinse and dry them very well before roasting. Also, avoid overcrowding the baking sheet and roast them at a slightly higher temperature for a shorter time, keeping a close watch to prevent burning. Cooling completely is also crucial for maximum crispiness.

Q4: Can I use fresh garlic instead of garlic powder?
A: Yes, you can use fresh garlic. Mince 1-2 cloves of garlic and toss them with the chickpeas along with the olive oil before roasting. Fresh garlic will add a stronger garlic flavor. Be mindful that fresh garlic can burn more easily than garlic powder, so keep an eye on them while roasting.

Q5: Are roasted spiced chickpeas healthy?
A: Yes, roasted spiced chickpeas are a healthy snack or side dish. They are a good source of plant-based protein, fiber, and healthy fats. They are also relatively low in calories and can be a nutritious alternative to processed snacks.

Q6: Can I make these without oil?
A: Roasting chickpeas without oil is possible, but it will be more challenging to achieve the same level of crispiness and flavor. If you want to reduce oil, you can use a minimal amount of oil spray or a very thin coating of oil. Be sure to toss them well with spices to maximize flavor even with less oil.

Q7: Can I freeze roasted spiced chickpeas?
A: Freezing roasted spiced chickpeas is not recommended as they will lose their crispiness and become soggy upon thawing. They are best enjoyed fresh or within a few days of roasting and storing at room temperature.

Q8: What are some variations I can try?
A: There are many variations you can try! Experiment with different spice blends like curry powder, Italian herbs, lemon pepper, or everything bagel seasoning. You can also add a touch of sweetness with a sprinkle of brown sugar or maple syrup before roasting, or add a drizzle of hot sauce after roasting for extra heat. You can also try adding nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.