Chickpea Flour Veggie Omelette

The Chickpea Flour Veggie Omelette is a delicious, plant-based alternative to the traditional omelette. It’s gluten-free, packed with protein, and loaded with vegetables, making it a healthy, nutritious option for breakfast, brunch, or even dinner. This omelette is a great choice for vegans, vegetarians, or anyone looking for a nutritious, filling meal. Chickpea flour, also known as gram flour or besan, is the star ingredient here. It’s high in protein and fiber, helping to keep you fuller for longer. The combination of spices such as turmeric and cumin adds warmth and depth of flavor, while the sautéed veggies provide texture and freshness.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

  • Chickpea flour: 100 g (3.5 oz)
  • Water: 200 ml (7 fl oz)
  • Baking powder: 1 tsp
  • Turmeric: 1 tsp
  • Cumin: 1 tsp
  • Soy sauce: 1 tbsp
  • Onion: 1, finely chopped
  • Bell pepper: 1, diced
  • Spinach: 1 handful (around 30 g)
  • Olive oil: 2 tbsp
  • Salt and pepper: to taste
  • Optional: fresh herbs such as parsley or coriander for garnish

Steps to Make the Chickpea Flour Veggie Omelette

Step 1: Prepare the Batter

  1. Mix dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together 100 g of chickpea flour, 1 tsp of baking powder, 1 tsp turmeric, and 1 tsp cumin.
  2. Add wet ingredients: Slowly pour in 200 ml of water and 1 tbsp soy sauce, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. The consistency should be similar to pancake batter, smooth but not too thick. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  3. Let it rest: Set the batter aside for about 5 minutes. This helps the chickpea flour absorb the water and ensures a smoother texture.

Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables

  1. Heat the oil: In a large skillet, heat 1 tbsp of olive oil over medium heat.
  2. Sauté the onion and pepper: Add the chopped onion and diced bell pepper to the pan. Cook for about 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables soften and the onion becomes translucent.
  3. Add spinach: Stir in a handful of fresh spinach, cooking until it wilts, which should only take a minute or two. Remove the vegetables from the pan and set them aside on a plate.

Step 3: Cook the Omelette

  1. Add the batter to the pan: In the same skillet, heat 1 tbsp of olive oil over medium heat. Pour in the chickpea batter, spreading it evenly across the surface of the pan as if you were making a pancake. Allow it to cook undisturbed for 5-7 minutes until the edges start to set and the center begins to firm up.
  2. Add the vegetables: Once the omelette has set, carefully spoon the sautéed vegetables onto one half of the omelette.
  3. Fold the omelette: Using a spatula, gently fold the omelette in half over the vegetables. Continue to cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the omelette to crisp slightly on the outside.

Step 4: Serve and Garnish

  1. Garnish: Transfer the omelette to a plate and garnish with fresh herbs such as parsley or coriander for added flavor and a pop of color.
  2. Serve warm: Enjoy the omelette while it’s warm, either on its own or with a side salad, toast, or your favorite toppings.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

This chickpea flour omelette serves about 2 people. Below are the estimated nutritional values per serving:

  • Calories: 280 kcal
  • Protein: 12 g
  • Carbohydrates: 28 g
  • Fat: 12 g
  • Fiber: 6 g
  • Sugar: 5 g
  • Sodium: 500 mg
  • Iron: 2.5 mg

The chickpea flour provides a significant amount of protein and fiber, making this dish both satisfying and filling. The olive oil contributes healthy fats, while the vegetables add essential vitamins and minerals like Vitamin C and iron.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I substitute chickpea flour with another flour?
Chickpea flour has a unique texture and flavor, which makes it ideal for this recipe. However, if you need a substitute, you could try lentil flour or another gluten-free flour. Keep in mind that this might slightly alter the taste and texture.

2. Can I add other vegetables to the omelette?
Yes! Feel free to customize this omelette with other vegetables like mushrooms, tomatoes, zucchini, or even grated carrots. Just make sure to sauté them before adding them to the omelette.

3. Is this omelette freezer-friendly?
It’s best enjoyed fresh. However, if you have leftovers, you can store them in the fridge for up to 2 days and reheat in a pan or microwave before serving.

4. Can I make this recipe without oil?
You can reduce or eliminate the oil if you prefer. Simply use a non-stick pan to cook the vegetables and the omelette. Keep in mind that using no oil may result in a less crispy omelette.

5. What can I serve with this omelette?
This omelette pairs well with a side of fresh salad, avocado slices, or even a warm slice of whole grain toast. It’s also great as a filling in wraps or sandwiches.

Tips for Making the Perfect Chickpea Flour Veggie Omelette

  1. Whisk the batter well: To avoid lumps, make sure to whisk the chickpea flour and water mixture thoroughly. Letting the batter rest for 5 minutes also helps smooth out the consistency.
  2. Cook over medium heat: Chickpea flour omelettes tend to brown quickly, so it’s essential to cook over medium heat. This ensures the omelette cooks through without burning.
  3. Customize with spices: Feel free to experiment with other spices and herbs. Ground coriander, smoked paprika, or even chili flakes can add extra depth of flavor.
  4. Don’t overcrowd with veggies: While it’s tempting to pack in as many vegetables as possible, adding too many can make the omelette harder to fold. Stick to a handful of vegetables for best results.
  5. Use a good non-stick pan: To prevent sticking and make it easier to flip the omelette, it’s essential to use a well-greased, non-stick pan.

Storage Tips

  • In the fridge: Store leftover omelette in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat it in a skillet or microwave before serving.
  • In the freezer: While the omelette can be stored in the freezer, it’s best to consume it fresh. If you freeze it, wrap it tightly in foil and store it for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge before reheating in a skillet.
  • Reheating: For the best texture, reheat the omelette in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes. You can also microwave it for 1-2 minutes if you’re in a hurry.

Conclusion

This Chickpea Flour Veggie Omelette is a fantastic plant-based alternative to a traditional egg omelette, packed with protein, fiber, and nutrients. It’s easy to make, customizable, and perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. With its savory flavor, crisp outer edges, and hearty filling of sautéed veggies, it’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen. The best part? It’s gluten-free, dairy-free, and can be tailored to fit any dietary needs.

Try it out for your next meal, and feel free to experiment with different vegetables and spices to suit your taste. Enjoy this wholesome, nutrient-packed dish and share it with family and friends for a healthy, delicious experience