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These Crispy Baked Chickpea Patties are a nutritious, plant-based, and delicious option for those seeking a healthy and satisfying meal. Made primarily from chickpeas, these patties are high in protein and fiber, making them a great alternative to traditional meat-based patties. The combination of ground flaxseed, garlic powder, paprika, and a touch of oil ensures that these patties are flavorful, while the baking method keeps them light and crispy without excessive added fat.

These patties are incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways—stuffed into pita bread, served on a salad, or even paired with your favorite dipping sauce. They’re also gluten-free and vegan, making them a great option for anyone with dietary restrictions. Simple to make and packed with flavor, these chickpea patties will quickly become a staple in your meal rotation.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

For the Chickpea Patties:

Chickpeas (cooked) – 1 can (240 g | 9 oz | 1½ cups)

Ground flaxseed – 3 tablespoons
Paprika – ½ teaspoon
Garlic powder – ¼ teaspoon

Baking powder – 1 teaspoon
Oil – 1 tablespoon (olive or vegetable oil)
Salt – to taste

Vegetable oil spray – for baking

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Chickpea Mixture:

Drain and rinse the chickpeas: Start by draining and rinsing 1 can of chickpeas (240 g). This helps remove any excess sodium or preservatives from the canning liquid.
Mash the chickpeas: Place the chickpeas in a large bowl and mash them using a fork or potato masher. You can leave some texture, so the patties have a bit of bite, or mash them completely for a smoother consistency.

2. Add Flaxseed and Seasoning:

Prepare the flaxseed mixture: In a small bowl, combine 3 tablespoons of ground flaxseed with 6 tablespoons of water. Stir well and let the mixture sit for about 5-10 minutes until it thickens. This will act as a binder for the patties, similar to how eggs work in traditional recipes.
Season the chickpeas: Add the thickened flaxseed mixture to the mashed chickpeas. Then, season with ½ teaspoon of paprika, ¼ teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, 1 tablespoon of oil, and salt to taste. Stir the mixture until all ingredients are well combined.

3. Form the Patties:

Shape the patties: Using your hands, take about 2 tablespoons of the chickpea mixture and shape it into small, round patties. You should be able to form 6-8 patties, depending on the size.

Place on a baking sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with vegetable oil spray. Place the chickpea patties on the prepared sheet, ensuring they are spaced apart.

4. Bake the Patties:

Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).
Bake the patties: Spray the tops of the patties lightly with vegetable oil spray to help them crisp up in the oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the patties are golden brown and crispy on both sides.

Cool slightly: Once baked, remove the patties from the oven and allow them to cool slightly before serving. This helps them firm up and hold their shape.

Cooking Tips

Don’t Overmash: Leaving some chunks of chickpeas in the mixture will give your patties a nice texture and prevent them from becoming too mushy.
Add Extra Flavor: Feel free to add more spices or herbs like cumin, coriander, or fresh parsley to the chickpea mixture for added flavor. You can also mix in finely diced vegetables like onions or bell peppers for more texture.

Pan-Frying Option: If you prefer a crisper exterior, you can pan-fry the patties in a skillet with a small amount of oil instead of baking them. Cook them for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden and crispy.
Serving Ideas: These chickpea patties are versatile and can be enjoyed in many ways. Serve them in pita bread with a dollop of hummus, on top of a fresh salad, or as a burger with your favorite toppings.

Storage

Refrigeration: Store any leftover patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat them in the oven or on a skillet to restore their crispy texture before serving.

Freezing: The patties freeze well. After baking, allow them to cool completely, then place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven until warmed through and crispy.

Nutritional Facts (per serving, based on 6 patties):

Calories: 130 kcal
Protein: 6 g

Fat: 5 g
Carbohydrates: 16 g
Fiber: 5 g

Sugar: 1 g
Sodium: 200 mg

Please note that these values are approximate and depend on portion sizes and specific ingredients used.

FAQs

1. Can I use dried chickpeas instead of canned?

Yes! If using dried chickpeas, soak them overnight and cook until tender before using them in the recipe. The flavor and texture will be just as delicious, though it requires a bit more time.

2. What can I serve with chickpea patties?

These patties pair well with a variety of side dishes like fresh salads, roasted vegetables, or even in a wrap with lettuce and tomatoes. You can also serve them with a yogurt or tahini-based sauce for dipping.

3. Can I make these patties gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as your ingredients, like baking powder and vegetable oil spray, are certified gluten-free. There are no breadcrumbs or flour in the recipe, making it a great option for those avoiding gluten.

4. Can I make the mixture ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the chickpea mixture up to a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just form the patties and bake them when you’re ready to serve.

5. How can I make the patties extra crispy?

For a crispier result, spray the patties generously with vegetable oil spray before baking, or opt to pan-fry them in a small amount of oil until golden brown on both sides.

Conclusion

These Crispy Baked Chickpea Patties are a perfect blend of health and flavor. They are easy to make, packed with plant-based protein, and can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. Whether you serve them as a main course, a snack, or as part of a sandwich, they offer a nutritious and satisfying option for any meal.

The combination of chickpeas, ground flaxseed, and spices creates a flavorful base, while baking them ensures a crispy exterior without the need for excess oil. These patties are ideal for anyone following a vegan, gluten-free, or dairy-free diet, and they’re versatile enough to fit into a wide range of cuisines. Make a batch ahead of time for quick and healthy meals throughout the week!