Description
Chickpea Fritters
These Mediterranean Chickpea Fritters are a quick and delicious appetizer, perfect for meal prep or as part of a weeknight meal. Made with simple ingredients like chickpeas, flour, cheese, and herbs, these fritters are crisp on the outside and tender inside. Serve them with a creamy tahini sauce, and they’ll be the hit of your next gathering. Whether you’re planning an easy dinner or looking for a tasty snack, these chickpea fritters are versatile and packed with flavor!
1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, rinsed and drained
¼ cup all-purpose flour
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tbsp chopped parsley
1 tsp cumin
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper
2 tbsp water
2 tbsp canola oil
Tahini sauce for serving
Directions:
1. In a bowl, mash chickpeas and mix with flour, cheese, herbs, and spices.
2. Form into 6 patties.
3. Heat oil, cook patties 2-4 mins per side.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Kcal: 77 per fritter
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Drain and rinse the chickpeas thoroughly. Pat them dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture, which helps the fritters hold together better.
2. In a medium mixing bowl, add the chickpeas. Use a fork or potato masher to mash them until mostly broken down but with some texture remaining.
3. To the mashed chickpeas, add the all-purpose flour, grated Parmesan, chopped parsley, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir until well combined.
4. Add the water, one tablespoon at a time, and mix. The mixture should be cohesive enough to form patties that hold their shape without being too wet.
5. Divide the mixture into six equal portions. Shape each portion into a round, flat patty, about 1/2-inch thick.
6. Heat the canola oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium heat. Once the oil shimmers, carefully add the patties in a single layer, working in batches if necessary.
7. Cook for 3-4 minutes on the first side, until golden brown and crisp. Gently flip and cook for another 2-3 minutes on the second side.
8. Transfer cooked fritters to a plate lined with a paper towel to absorb any excess oil. Repeat with remaining patties.
Serving Suggestions
These fritters are incredibly versatile. For a complete meal, serve them over a bed of fresh greens like arugula or spinach with a lemon wedge. They make a fantastic appetizer with the recommended tahini sauce for dipping, or a creamy tzatziki. For a heartier dinner, tuck them into warm pita bread with sliced tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion. They also pair wonderfully with a side of roasted vegetables or a simple grain salad like quinoa or couscous.
How-to Summary
Mash rinsed chickpeas and combine with flour, Parmesan, parsley, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Add water to bind. Form into six patties. Pan-fry in hot oil for 2-4 minutes per side until golden and crisp. Drain on paper towels and serve with tahini sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use dried chickpeas instead of canned? Yes, but you must soak and cook them first until very tender. Canned chickpeas are recommended for convenience and consistent texture.
How can I make these gluten-free? Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend or chickpea flour for an extra protein boost.
Can I bake these fritters instead of frying? Absolutely. Place patties on a parchment-lined baking sheet, brush lightly with oil, and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store cooled fritters in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a toaster oven, air fryer, or skillet to restore crispiness.
Can I freeze the uncooked patties? Yes. Form the patties and place them on a baking sheet to freeze solid. Then transfer to a freezer bag. Cook from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not drying the chickpeas enough, leading to a wet, difficult-to-shape mixture.
- Over-mashing the chickpeas into a uniform paste; some texture is desirable for the best mouthfeel.
- Using oil that isn’t hot enough, which causes the fritters to absorb oil and become greasy instead of crisp.
- Flipping the patties too early or too frequently. Let them develop a golden crust before turning.
- Overcrowding the pan, which lowers the oil temperature and steams the fritters.
Conclusion
These Mediterranean Chickpea Fritters are a testament to how simple ingredients can create something truly special. They are a reliable, flavorful option for any occasion, from a quick snack to an impressive party appetizer. With the detailed steps and tips provided, you can confidently avoid common pitfalls and enjoy perfectly crisp fritters every time. Their versatility in serving and preparation makes them a valuable addition to your culinary repertoire. Give this recipe a try—it’s sure to become a new favorite.