Craving a satisfying and healthy afternoon snack? These Spicy Cumin Roasted Chickpeas are incredibly easy to make and offer a fantastic crunch you’ll love. They’re perfect for satisfying those midday cravings without the guilt.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions:
- Canned Chickpeas: Use any brand of canned chickpeas.
- Olive Oil: Avocado oil or another neutral oil works well.
- Spices: Adjust the spice levels to your preference.
Ingredients:
- 1 (15-ounce) can chickpeas, rinsed, drained, and thoroughly patted dry
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (or more, to taste)
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Prep time: 5 minutes
- Cook time: 20-25 minutes
- Total time: 25-30 minutes
- Servings: 2-3
- Tools: Baking sheet, mixing bowl
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. This ensures your chickpeas will roast evenly.
2. Prepare the Chickpeas
In a medium bowl, combine the thoroughly dried chickpeas with olive oil. Toss them well until each chickpea is lightly coated. Drying them properly is key to crispiness.
3. Season the Chickpeas
Add the ground cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, and garlic powder to the bowl. Sprinkle in salt and black pepper to your taste. Toss everything together until the chickpeas are evenly coated with the spices.
4. Roast to Perfection
Spread the seasoned chickpeas in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. This helps them get crispy, not steamed. Roast for 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway through, until they are golden brown and crunchy.
5. Cool and Serve
Remove the chickpeas from the oven and let them cool slightly on the baking sheet. They will become even crispier as they cool. Enjoy your delicious healthy afternoon snack!
Variation Ideas:
- Lemon Herb: Add a squeeze of lemon juice and dried oregano or rosemary after roasting.
- Sweet & Spicy: Mix in a pinch of brown sugar before roasting for a sweet heat.
- Indian Inspired: Include a dash of turmeric and coriander for a different flavor profile.
- Everything Bagel: Toss with everything bagel seasoning after roasting for a savory twist.
Storage Instructions:
Store any leftover roasted chickpeas in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. For best crunch, reheat them in a dry skillet over medium heat or in a toaster oven for a few minutes. This is a great healthy afternoon snack to prepare ahead of time.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
Q: Why do I need to dry the chickpeas so thoroughly?
A: Drying the chickpeas completely helps them become crispy during roasting. Excess moisture will steam them instead of roasting them.
Q: Can I make these in an air fryer?
A: Yes, you can! Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket occasionally, until crispy.
Q: What if I don’t like spicy food?
A: Simply omit the cayenne pepper or reduce it to a tiny pinch. The cumin and smoked paprika still provide excellent flavor.
Q: Are these suitable for a healthy afternoon snack on the go?
A: Absolutely! They are perfect for meal prep and make a convenient, protein-packed healthy afternoon snack to take with you.
Q: Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?
A: It’s best to use dried herbs for roasting, as fresh herbs can burn easily at high temperatures. If using fresh, add them after roasting.
Q: How can I make them extra crispy?
A: Ensure your oven is fully preheated, spread the chickpeas in a single layer without overcrowding, and let them cool completely after roasting.
