The Story Behind the Dish
Plant-based cooking reaches new heights with these Crispy Chickpea Balls, a recipe that transforms humble chickpeas into a mouthwatering dish bursting with flavor and texture. Perfect as a snack, appetizer, or main course, these balls prove that vegan cuisine can be both exciting and satisfying. Paired with a zesty lemon herb sauce, this recipe is a celebration of simple, wholesome ingredients.
Ingredients
For the Chickpea Balls
- Chickpeas (cooked or canned): 250g (1½ cups)
- Onion: 1 small, finely chopped
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
- Lemon Juice: 1 tbsp
- Oat Flakes: 2 tbsp
- Smoked Paprika Powder: 1 tsp
- Cumin: 1 tsp
- Salt: to taste
- Black Pepper: to taste
- Olive Oil: for frying
For the Lemon Herb Sauce
- Plant-Based Yogurt (soy or coconut): 100g (⅓ cup)
- Lemon Zest: 1 tsp
- Lemon Juice: 1 tbsp
- Garlic: 1 clove, minced
- Maple Syrup: 1 tsp
- Paprika Powder: A pinch
- Salt & Pepper: to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Chickpea Balls
- Drain and rinse chickpeas
- In a food processor, combine chickpeas, chopped onion, minced garlic
- Add lemon juice, oat flakes, smoked paprika, cumin
- Season with salt and pepper
- Pulse to create a coarse mixture (do not over-process)
- Form the Balls
- Using clean hands, shape the mixture into small balls
- If mixture is too wet, add more oat flakes
- Ensure balls are compact and hold together
- Cook the Chickpea Balls
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet
- Carefully place chickpea balls in the pan
- Fry for 4-5 minutes, turning to brown evenly on all sides
- Ensure golden and crispy exterior
- Prepare the Lemon Herb Sauce
- In a small bowl, mix plant-based yogurt
- Add lemon zest and juice
- Mince garlic and add to the mixture
- Stir in maple syrup
- Season with paprika, salt, and pepper
- Mix until smooth and well combined
- Serve
- Place crispy chickpea balls on a serving plate
- Drizzle with or serve alongside the lemon herb sauce
- Garnish with fresh herbs if desired
Nutritional Information
- Servings: 4-6
- Calories per serving: Approximately 180-220
- Protein: 8-10g
- Carbohydrates: 20-25g
- Fat: 8-10g
- Fiber: 5-7g
Preparation Time: 15 minutes Cooking Time: 10 minutes Total Time: 25 minutes
Cooking Tips and Tricks
- Use well-drained chickpeas to prevent soggy balls
- Ensure oil is hot before adding chickpea balls
- Don’t overcrowd the pan while frying
- Test one ball first to check seasoning
- Can be baked at 400°F (200°C) for a healthier option
Variations and Substitutions
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free oats
- Nut-Free: Recipe is naturally nut-free
- Spice Variations:
- Add fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro
- Experiment with different spice blends
- Sauce Alternatives:
- Use tahini sauce
- Try a spicy sriracha mayo
- Protein Boost: Add nutritional yeast or hemp seeds
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I make these balls ahead of time? Yes, prepare and refrigerate before cooking. Cook just before serving.
Q2: How do I store leftovers? Refrigerate in an airtight container for 3-4 days. Reheat in oven to maintain crispiness.
Q3: Can I freeze these chickpea balls? Yes, freeze uncooked balls for up to 1 month.
Q4: What can I serve with these? Great with salad, in wraps, or as part of a mezze platter.
Q5: Are these balls suitable for meal prep? Absolutely! Prepare in advance and reheat when needed.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
- Refrigerate cooked balls for 3-4 days
- Freeze uncooked balls for up to 1 month
- Best reheated in oven to maintain crispiness
- Sauce can be prepared 2 days in advance
- Store sauce and balls separately
Enjoy your Crispy Chickpea Balls – a delicious testament to the creativity of plant-based cooking!
