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Crispy Chickpea Patties Recipe


  • Author: Bianca

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 (15-ounce) cans chickpeas (garbanzo beans), rinsed and thoroughly drained – The star of the show, providing protein and a creamy texture.
  • 1 medium red onion (approx. ½ cup), finely chopped – Adds a sharp, aromatic bite.
  • 23 cloves garlic, minced – For that essential, pungent flavor base.
  • ½ cup fresh cilantro or parsley (or a mix), chopped – Brings freshness and herbaceous notes.
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin – Adds a warm, earthy, and slightly smoky flavor.
  • ½ teaspoon ground coriander – Offers a mild, sweet, and citrusy undertone.
  • ¼½ teaspoon cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes (optional, adjust to taste) – For a gentle kick of heat.
  • ½ teaspoon turmeric powder (optional) – Adds a beautiful golden color and subtle earthy notes.
  • 1 large egg (or 1 flax egg for vegan: 1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 tbsp water, let sit for 5 mins) – Acts as a binder to hold the patties together.
  • ½ cup plain breadcrumbs (plus extra for coating, if desired) – Helps bind and contributes to the crispy exterior. Use gluten-free if needed.
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (or chickpea flour/oat flour for gluten-free) – Further aids in binding and structure.
  • Juice of ½ lemon (about 1 tablespoon) – Brightens up all the flavors.
  • Salt to taste (start with ½ teaspoon) – Enhances all the other flavors.
  • Freshly ground black pepper to taste (start with ¼ teaspoon) – Adds a touch of pungency.
  • 34 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil, for frying – For achieving that perfect golden, crispy crust.

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chickpeas: Place the rinsed and drained chickpeas in a large bowl. Using a potato masher or a fork, coarsely mash the chickpeas. You want some texture, so don’t over-mash them into a paste; some whole or partially mashed chickpeas are desirable.
  2. Sauté Aromatics (Optional but Recommended): In a small skillet, heat 1 teaspoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped red onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly. This step mellows the onion and garlic, adding depth of flavor, but you can skip it and add them raw if short on time.
  3. Combine Ingredients: To the bowl with the mashed chickpeas, add the sautéed (or raw) onion and garlic, chopped cilantro/parsley, ground cumin, ground coriander, cayenne pepper (if using), turmeric (if using), egg (or flax egg), breadcrumbs, flour, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
  4. Mix Well: Using your hands or a sturdy spoon, mix all the ingredients thoroughly until well combined. The mixture should hold together when squeezed. If it seems too wet, add a tablespoon more breadcrumbs or flour at a time. If it seems too dry, you can add a teaspoon of water or a bit more lemon juice.
  5. Chill the Mixture (Important for Firmness): Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to an hour. This step helps the flavors meld and makes the mixture easier to shape and less likely to fall apart during cooking.
  6. Shape the Patties: Lightly flour your hands. Take about ¼ to ⅓ cup of the chickpea mixture and form it into a firm ball, then flatten it into a patty about ½-inch thick and 2-3 inches in diameter. Repeat with the remaining mixture. You should get about 8-10 patties. If you want an extra crispy coating, you can lightly dredge each patty in additional breadcrumbs at this stage.
  7. Cook the Patties:
    • Pan-Frying Method (Recommended for Crispiest Results): Heat 3-4 tablespoons of olive oil or vegetable oil in a large skillet or frying pan over medium heat. The oil should be hot enough that a breadcrumb sizzles when dropped in, but not smoking.
    • Carefully place the patties in the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan (cook in batches if necessary).
    • Cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown, crispy, and heated through. Adjust the heat if they are browning too quickly.
    • Baking Method (Healthier Option): Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking sheet or line it with parchment paper. Arrange the patties in a single layer. You can lightly spray the tops with cooking oil for better browning. Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and firm. They won’t be as crispy as pan-fried but still delicious.
    • Air Fryer Method: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Lightly spray the air fryer basket and the tops of the patties with oil. Cook for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy.
  8. Drain and Serve: Once cooked, transfer the crispy chickpea patties to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil. Serve warm with your favorite accompaniments.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: one normal portion
  • Calories: 180