Zucchini Chickpea Pancakes

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These Zucchini Chickpea Pancakes are a delightful, gluten-free, and egg-free recipe that combines the fresh taste of zucchini with the subtle nuttiness of chickpea powder. Perfect for a quick meal, a starter, or even an appetizer, these pancakes are soft and crispy, making them a hit with everyone.

Preparation Time

  • Preparation: 10 minutes
  • Cooking: 15 minutes
  • Total: 25 minutes

Ingredients:

  • 1 zucchini, ends trimmed and grated
  • 6 rounded tablespoons of chickpea powder (or chickpea flour)
  • 100 ml water
  • Salt (optional)

Instructions:

Prepare the Zucchini:

  1. Trim and Grate: Trim the ends of the zucchini and grate it.
  2. Retain Moisture: Do not squeeze the zucchini; it is important to retain its moisture.

Mix Ingredients:

  1. Combine Chickpea Powder and Water: In a bowl, add 6 rounded tablespoons of chickpea powder.
  2. Mix: Add 100 ml of water to the bowl (note that water is not counted as an ingredient). Mix well until you obtain a very creamy mixture.
  3. Add Zucchini: Add the grated zucchini and mix thoroughly.

Form the Pancakes:

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 200°C (392°F).
  2. Shape the Pancakes: Using round cookie cutters, form the zucchini mixture into pancakes. Use roughly 2 tablespoons of mixture for each pancake.
  3. Prepare Baking Tray: Place the pancakes on a baking tray lined with parchment paper.

Cook the Pancakes:

  1. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the pancakes are golden brown.

Serve:

  1. Serve Warm: Serve the pancakes with a quick sauce made from Greek yogurt and chili sauce. Add a pinch of salt if desired.
  2. Enjoy: Enjoy the soft and crispy pancakes.

Serving Suggestions

  • Light Meal or Appetizer: Serve as a light meal, starter, or appetizer.
  • Pair with Salad: Pair with a fresh salad or a side of roasted vegetables.
  • Dipping Sauce: Serve with a dipping sauce such as Greek yogurt mixed with chili sauce for an extra kick.

Cooking Tips

  • Retain Zucchini Moisture: Do not squeeze the zucchini; its moisture is essential for the recipe.
  • Use Rounded Tablespoons: Use rounded tablespoons of chickpea powder to ensure the right texture.
  • Chickpea Flour Variation: If using chickpea flour, the texture will be slightly different but still delicious.

Nutritional Benefits

  • Zucchini: Low in calories, high in fiber, and rich in vitamins A and C.
  • Chickpea Powder: High in protein and fiber, and gluten-free.

Dietary Information

  • Vegetarian: Yes
  • Vegan: Yes (if using a plant-based yogurt for the sauce)
  • Gluten-Free: Yes
  • Dairy-Free: Yes (if using a plant-based yogurt for the sauce)
  • Egg-Free: Yes

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’ll love these Zucchini Chickpea Pancakes for their simplicity and flavor. With only a few ingredients, they are quick to prepare and perfect for those who need a healthy, gluten-free, and egg-free option. The combination of zucchini and chickpea powder creates a delightful texture that is both soft and crispy.

Conclusion

These Zucchini Chickpea Pancakes are a perfect addition to your recipe collection. Easy to make and full of flavor, they are ideal for a quick meal, a healthy snack, or an impressive appetizer. Enjoy these delicious, golden-brown pancakes with a tangy yogurt and chili sauce, and savor the delightful taste and texture that everyone will love.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

  1. Can I use other vegetables instead of zucchini?
    • Yes, you can substitute zucchini with grated carrots, sweet potatoes, or even spinach for a different flavor profile.
  2. What can I use instead of chickpea powder?
    • You can use chickpea flour (besan) or any other gluten-free flour like rice flour or almond flour, though the texture may vary.
  3. Can I pan-fry these pancakes instead of baking them?
    • Yes, you can pan-fry the pancakes in a non-stick skillet with a little oil until golden brown on both sides.
  4. How do I store leftovers?
    • Store leftover pancakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven or skillet before serving.
  5. Are these pancakes freezer-friendly?
    • Yes, you can freeze the pancakes for up to a month. Layer them with parchment paper in an airtight container to prevent sticking.
  6. Can I add other seasonings or spices?
    • Absolutely! Feel free to add cumin, coriander, or even a pinch of turmeric for extra flavor.
  7. How do I make the pancakes crispier?
    • For extra crispiness, you can bake them for an additional 2-3 minutes or broil them for a minute at the end.
  8. Can I make the batter ahead of time?
    • Yes, you can prepare the batter a few hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator until ready to use.
  9. What dipping sauces go well with these pancakes?
    • Greek yogurt with chili sauce, tzatziki, or even a simple lemon tahini sauce pairs well with these pancakes.
  10. Can I add cheese to the mixture?
    • Yes, adding a bit of grated Parmesan or cheddar cheese to the batter will enhance the flavor and add a nice richness to the pancakes.
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