Crispy chickpea nuggets served with dipping sauce

Crispy Chickpea Nuggets Recipe

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why make this recipe

Crispy Chickpea Nuggets are a fantastic option for anyone looking for a delicious, healthy snack or a protein-packed meal. They’re easy to make, packed with flavor, and a great alternative to traditional chicken nuggets. Plus, they are entirely plant-based, making them perfect for vegans, vegetarians, or anyone wanting to reduce meat in their diet. These nuggets are not just healthy; they are also super fun to eat and easy to customize with different spices and dips!

how to make Crispy Chickpea Nuggets

Ingredients:

  • 1 (15-ounce) can of chickpeas (garbanzo beans): Rinsed and drained well; pat them dry with a paper towel for the best texture.
  • 1/2 cup rolled oats: Acts as a binder and adds a wonderful texture. Certified gluten-free oats can be used for a gluten-free version.
  • 1/4 cup nutritional yeast: This adds a cheesy, umami flavor, perfect for flavor enhancement.
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps keep the nuggets moist and aids in creating a crispy outer layer.
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free): Adds a savory flavor to the nuggets.
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Gives that classic nugget flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder: Works with garlic powder to bring out delicious aromas.
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika: Offers a smoky flavor and nice color.
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a tiny kick.
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt (or to taste): Start small, as the soy sauce is salty.
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour: Forms the first layer of the breading process.
  • 1/2 cup unsweetened plant-based milk: Acts like an egg wash for the breadcrumbs.
  • 1 1/2 cups Panko breadcrumbs: Gives the nuggets their ultimate crispy texture.
  • Cooking spray or additional olive oil: For spritzing the nuggets for that golden finish.

Directions:

  1. Prepare the Chickpeas: Open the can of chickpeas and drain them in a colander. Rinse them thoroughly under cool water to remove excess starch and sodium. Pat them dry to prevent mushiness when mixing.

  2. Mix Ingredients: In a food processor, add the drained chickpeas, rolled oats, nutritional yeast, olive oil, soy sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, and salt. Pulse the mixture 10-15 times until well combined but still chunky.

  3. Chill Mixture: Transfer the mixture to a bowl, cover it, and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. Chilling helps the nuggets hold their shape during cooking.

  4. Shape Nuggets: After chilling, scoop out about 1 to 1.5 tablespoons of the mixture. Roll into a ball and flatten it into a nugget shape. Repeat until all the mixture is used (about 20-24 nuggets).

  5. Breading Process: Set up three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with plant-based milk, and one with seasoned Panko breadcrumbs. Dip each nugget in flour, then milk, and coat it with breadcrumbs. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet or air fryer basket in a single layer.

  6. Cook:

    • Oven-Baked Method: Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy.
    • Air Fryer Method: Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway.

how to serve Crispy Chickpea Nuggets

Serve your Crispy Chickpea Nuggets with your favorite dipping sauce, such as BBQ, vegan ranch, or mustard. They make a great appetizer, a game-day snack, or a fun side dish for kids. You can also serve them over a bed of greens with a drizzle of your favorite dressing for a complete meal.

how to store Crispy Chickpea Nuggets

If you have leftovers, store the cooked nuggets in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. They can also be frozen for up to a month. To reheat, bake them in the oven or air fryer until heated through and crispy again.

tips to make Crispy Chickpea Nuggets

  • Ensure the chickpeas are well-drained and patted dry to prevent a watery mixture.
  • Don’t skip the chilling step; it really helps with the texture.
  • Feel free to experiment with spices and herbs to suit your taste.
  • Make a larger batch and freeze them for quick snacks on busy days.

variation

You can customize these nuggets by adding finely chopped vegetables like spinach or red bell pepper. You may also try different spices like curry powder for a unique flavor twist.

FAQs

Can I bake these nuggets instead of frying?
Yes! Baking them is a great option. Just ensure you spray them lightly with cooking oil to achieve that crispy texture.

What can I substitute for nutritional yeast?
You can skip it, but they might lose some of that cheesy flavor. Another option is to use vegan cheese shreds.

How do I know when they are done cooking?
The nuggets should be golden brown and crispy on the outside. You can also insert a fork to check if they are hot in the middle.

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