Roasting Chickpeas: Pan-Fry Method

Roasted chickpeas are a delicious, healthy snack that can be seasoned in a variety of ways. They are a great addition to soups and salads, providing a crunchy texture and a burst of flavour. This easy recipe can be made in a pan on the stovetop in around 10 minutes and only requires a few simple ingredients.

How to dry chickpeas before roasting

Roasting chickpeas is a great way to make a healthy, flavourful, and protein-packed snack. There are a few steps you can follow to ensure your chickpeas are dry before roasting them in a pan.

Firstly, if you are using canned chickpeas, drain and rinse them in cold water. If you are using dried chickpeas, you will need to soak them in plenty of water for about 24 hours. They will expand and at least double in size. After soaking, drain and dry them well.

Next, use paper towels or a clean dish towel to rub the chickpeas until they are very dry. Leaving them in a colander for a while will help release any excess moisture. You can also spread them out on a large baking sheet lined with paper towels. Some recipes suggest drying the chickpeas in the fridge overnight on a towel, which helps prevent grease spatter burns when you roast them in the oil.

Once your chickpeas are dry, you can toss them with oil and your desired seasonings and start roasting!

The best oils for roasting chickpeas in a pan

Roasted chickpeas are a delicious, healthy, and protein-packed snack. They can be seasoned in a variety of ways and are easy to make. When roasting chickpeas in a pan, it is important to use an oil with a high smoke point to prevent the oil from burning and imparting a bitter taste to the chickpeas. Here are some of the best oils to use:

Avocado Oil

Avocado oil has a high smoke point, making it ideal for pan-roasting chickpeas. It is a healthy, neutral-flavoured oil that will not overpower the other ingredients. Avocado oil is also a good source of monounsaturated fats and vitamin E, making it a nutritious choice for roasting.

Grapeseed Oil

Grapeseed oil is another neutral-flavoured oil with a high smoke point, making it suitable for pan-roasting chickpeas. It has a slightly nutty flavour that can enhance the taste of the chickpeas. Grapeseed oil is also rich in vitamin E and polyunsaturated fats, offering some nutritional benefits.

Vegetable Oil

Vegetable oil is a common and affordable option for pan-roasting chickpeas. It has a neutral flavour and a high smoke point, making it versatile and suitable for high-heat cooking. Vegetable oil is often a blend of different oils, so check the label to ensure it is suitable for high-heat cooking.

Olive Oil

Olive oil is a popular choice for roasting chickpeas and can be used in a pan or in the oven. However, it is important to note that olive oil has a lower smoke point than other oils, so it may not be the best choice for pan-roasting, as it may burn at high temperatures. If you do use olive oil, extra-virgin olive oil is recommended for its higher smoke point.

When roasting chickpeas in a pan, it is important to ensure that the chickpeas are thoroughly dried before adding them to the oil. This will help them crisp up and prevent splattering. Additionally, season the chickpeas after roasting, as spices can burn and become bitter if added during the roasting process.

How long to roast chickpeas in a pan for

The length of time it takes to roast chickpeas in a pan depends on your heat source, the desired crispiness, and the size of your batch. In general, you can expect to roast chickpeas in a pan for 8 to 10 minutes over a medium-high heat source. However, the time can vary depending on several factors.

Firstly, the desired level of crispiness will affect the roasting time. For a deeper golden brown colour and a crunchier texture, roast the chickpeas for a longer period of time, checking regularly to avoid burning.

Secondly, the heat source and its temperature will impact roasting time. A cast-iron pan will hold the temperature more evenly than other types of pans. Additionally, the amount of oil used will affect the roasting time. A more generous amount of oil will help the chickpeas crisp up faster.

Finally, the size of your batch will determine how long it takes to roast the chickpeas. A larger batch will require more time in the pan to ensure even cooking.

It is important to note that chickpeas should be thoroughly dried before roasting to achieve maximum crispiness. Removing the skins from the chickpeas can also help achieve a crispier texture, although this step is time-consuming and may not be necessary if you are short on time.

When roasting chickpeas in a pan, be sure to shake the pan every few minutes to ensure even cooking and prevent burning. Additionally, some recipes suggest pre-tossing the chickpeas in oil and seasonings before roasting, while others suggest seasoning the chickpeas after roasting to prevent spices from burning.

How to season chickpeas after roasting in a pan

Roasted chickpeas are a delicious snack, but the real magic happens when you season them. The options are endless, but here are some ideas to get you started:

Spices and Seasonings

The beauty of roasted chickpeas is that you can season them with just about anything. Some popular options include:

• Smoked paprika
• Sumac
• Harissa
• Za'atar
• Cumin
• Cayenne pepper
• Red pepper flakes
• Oregano
• Italian seasoning
• Garlic powder
• Curry powder
• Cinnamon
• Ginger
• Chili powder
• Everything bagel seasoning
• Shawarma seasoning

Herbs

If you're looking to add some freshness to your roasted chickpeas, try tossing them with some finely chopped herbs like:

• Parsley
• Mint
• Basil
• Cilantro
• Rosemary

Citrus

A squeeze of fresh lemon or lime juice can add a bright, tangy note to your roasted chickpeas. You can also use citrus zest to add a pop of flavour.

Cheese

For an extra indulgent touch, try tossing your roasted chickpeas with some grated Parmesan cheese.

Other Ideas

You can also get creative and experiment with different combinations of flavours. Try using a blend of spices, herbs, and citrus to create a unique flavour profile that's all your own.

Remember, the key to successful seasoning is to add it right after roasting, while the chickpeas are still warm. This helps the flavours adhere to the chickpeas and creates a more intense taste experience.

How to store roasted chickpeas

Roasted chickpeas are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven. However, if you have leftovers, there are a few ways to store them.

It is important to note that roasted chickpeas will lose their crispiness over time, but they can be re-crisped in the oven for a few minutes.

Don'ts:

• Don't store them in plastic bags or containers.
• Don't put them in the refrigerator.

Dos:

• Store them in a glass container with the lid slightly ajar.
• Store them in a parchment or paper bag.
• Cover them in a bowl with a paper towel.

These storage options will allow air to circulate around the chickpeas, keeping them drier and crispier.

Frequently asked questions