Are you ready to elevate your snack game with a delightful twist on a classic? These Chickpea Croquettes are not only a scrumptious vegetarian option, but they also pack a punch of flavor and texture that will leave your taste buds dancing! With a crispy exterior and a savory, herb-infused interior, these croquettes are perfect for parties, appetizers, or a satisfying meal any day of the week. In just 35 minutes, you can whip up a batch that serves four—perfect for sharing or enjoying all by yourself. Dive into this recipe and discover how easy it is to create a dish that’s as nutritious as it is delicious!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Vegetarian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup chopped parsley
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Oil for frying
Instructions
- Drain and rinse the chickpeas thoroughly in a colander, then pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
- In a large food processor, combine the chickpeas, minced garlic, chopped parsley, cumin, salt, and pepper. Pulse the mixture until it becomes a coarse, slightly chunky consistency, ensuring some texture remains.
- Add breadcrumbs to the mixture and pulse a few more times to incorporate evenly. The mixture should be sticky enough to form into patties but not too wet.
- Using clean hands, shape the mixture into small oval or round croquettes, approximately 2-3 inches in diameter and about 1/2 inch thick. Place formed croquettes on a clean plate.
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add enough oil to cover the bottom of the pan, about 1/4 inch deep.
- Carefully place the croquettes in the hot oil, cooking for 3-4 minutes on each side until they develop a golden-brown crispy exterior.
- Remove croquettes from the pan and place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
- Let the croquettes rest for 2-3 minutes before serving to allow them to set and cool slightly.
- Serve hot with a side of yogurt sauce, tzatziki, or your preferred dipping sauce.
Tips
- Rinse and Dry: Make sure to drain and rinse the chickpeas thoroughly, then pat them dry. This step is crucial to achieving the right texture in your croquettes.
- Pulse, Don’t Puree: When using the food processor, pulse the mixture until it's coarse but still has some texture. You want those delightful bits of chickpeas to shine through!
- Stickiness is Key: If the mixture feels too dry to form patties, add a splash of water or a little more oil. Conversely, if it’s too wet, add a bit more breadcrumbs to achieve the perfect consistency.
- Heat the Oil Properly: Ensure your oil is hot enough before adding the croquettes. A good test is to drop a small piece of the mixture into the oil; if it sizzles right away, you’re ready to go!
- Rest Before Serving: Letting the croquettes rest for a few minutes after frying helps them set and makes them easier to handle. Plus, it enhances their flavor!
- Dipping Sauce Delight: Pair these croquettes with a refreshing yogurt sauce or tzatziki for an extra layer of flavor. You can even experiment with different sauces to find your favorite!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 180kcal
Carbohydrates: 22g
Protein: 7g
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
