Pan Fried Spiced Chickpeas

Hannah Sunderani
Jun 17, 2016
3 min read

Ever wonder what to have for dinner when you're just too busy to cook? Sometimes we have more urgent things to do than spend it in the kitchen... Recently, I've been finding myself in this dilemma all too often. And so I've been turning to chickpeas a lot over the past few weeks.

I'm starting to think this is why Chickpeas were put on this earth! Because they are the perfect solution for the busy lifestyle. Our wedding is quickly approaching and I'm finding less and less time to devote in the kitchen to cooking and chopping, which I really do enjoy so much! (I must say I'm looking forward to going back to my old kitchen rituals!). But this recipe has been my savour because it's just so easy to make, it's protein packed (so Mitch is happy), and it's so diverse so we can keep reinventing ways to enjoy them.

What's also god-sent is that they are a budget friendly (and guilt-free) solution to the "let's order pizza," and at the moment we are saving every penny! And, they are a fancier solution to the "Ughhh....I'll just have some cereal for dinner." (I hate to admit...but yes it happened...these past couple weeks have been rough!).

And so when I look at my clock wondering where the last 6 hours went I look to my chickpeas for help! This Pan Fried Spiced Chickpea recipe has become my go-to, not only because it's easy to whip up, but it's full of flavour! The spices give it that rich taste that's missing from straight out of the can chickpeas, so you'll enjoy every bite. And the spices are SO forgiving, meaning if you don't particularly like the spices I've picked you can play around with your favourites to suit your taste. And it takes just a few minutes to season and sauté, so you can save precious time for all the other things that need ticking off your to do list.

But the best part about this recipe is how diverse it can be! You can pair it with pretty much anything! Feel free to sprinkle over some mixed greens, quinoa and rice, or layer it on some whole wheat toast! Or, if you're like me you'll even enjoy these beautiful chickpeas in a simple white bowl with a spoon (or two)!

I highly recommend trying this recipe if you too are going through a busy period, or are just looking to create something quick, healthy and delish! These spiced chickpeas will not disappoint.

Pan Fried Spiced Chickpeas

Serves: 4 | Prep Time: 6-10 mins | Cook Time: 6-10 mins

Ingredients:

2 1/2 cups cooked chickpeas
4 tbsp extra virgin olive oil (evoo), plus more for drizzle
1/2 tsp turmeric
1/4 tsp cumin
1/4 tsp ground ginger
1/4 red onion (approx. 1/4 cup chopped)
salt and pepper
red pepper flakes to taste

Directions:

Add your chickpeas to a skillet with 4 tbsp evoo. Mix well.
Sprinkle with turmeric, cumin, and ginger. Mix well.
Dice red onion and sprinkle over the chickpeas, crack with salt and pepper and mix.
Place on the stovetop on medium heat and sauté the chickpeas for 6-10 minutes, or until they are crisped. Drizzle with more olive oil if needed to ensure they don't stick.
Remove from heat; add red pepper flakes to taste, and crack with more salt and pepper.

Approvals: