Something Crunchy and Delicious Awaits!
Imagine pulling a tray of golden-brown nuggets out of your oven, filling your kitchen with a savory aroma so irresistible that you can’t help but sneak a taste. These Healthy Vegan Chickpea Nuggets are not just your average snack; they’re quick, easy to make, and packed with flavor! Trust me, once you try them, you’ll wonder how something so wholesome can taste this good. 🌱
Why Make This Recipe
Why should you give these chickpea nuggets a shot? For starters, they make cleanup a breeze—you only need one bowl and a baking sheet. Plus, they’re super affordable with ingredients that are probably hanging out in your pantry. And let’s be honest, they’re family-friendly; even the pickiest of eaters will be clamoring for seconds. Who wouldn’t want to serve something that everyone can happily munch on?
Ingredients
You don’t need fancy stuff—just these basics! Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup nutritional yeast
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for baking)
Directions
Let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps for a nugget experience that will delight your taste buds:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a bowl, mash the chickpeas with a fork or potato masher until mostly smooth.
- Add breadcrumbs, nutritional yeast, onion, garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper to the mashed chickpeas; mix until well combined.
- Form the mixture into small nugget shapes and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Brush the tops with olive oil.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown.
- Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce.
How to Make Healthy Vegan Chickpea Nuggets (Overview)
Making these nuggets is as easy as pie—okay, maybe easier! Start by preheating your oven while you mash those chickpeas. Once you combine everything in a bowl, it’s shape and bake time. Form your nugget shapes with love and brush them with olive oil for that perfect crispy top. Pro tip: Don’t skip the flipping step! It ensures even browning and adds that extra crunch. 😋
How to Serve Healthy Vegan Chickpea Nuggets
These nuggets are all about vibrant colors and crunch. Serve them with a variety of dips—think tangy tahini sauce, creamy vegan ranch, or a zesty avocado dip. Imagine the rich smell wafting through the air as you serve them hot and crispy, straight from the oven. You can even toss a sprinkle of fresh herbs for that beautiful pop of color.
How to Store Healthy Vegan Chickpea Nuggets
Got leftovers? No problem! These nuggets can hang out in the fridge for about 4-5 days. If you want to keep them for longer, pop them in the freezer, where they’ll last for up to 3 months! To reheat, simply place them back in the oven or air fryer until they’re crispy again. Make-ahead meal prep, anyone? 🙋♀️
Tips to Make Healthy Vegan Chickpea Nuggets
Want to nail this recipe? Here are some quick insider tricks:
- Experiment with spices: Try adding a pinch of cayenne for a spicy kick.
- Use fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for added flavor.
- For extra crunch, toss in a handful of ground flaxseed or pecans to the mix.
- Keep an eye on baking time—the perfect nugget is golden and crispy but not burnt!
- If the mixture feels too wet, add more breadcrumbs; if it’s too dry, a splash of water does wonders.
Variation
Feeling adventurous? Switch things up! You can add some finely chopped vegetables like bell peppers or carrots for a tasty twist. Or for a different flavor profile, toss in some curry powder instead of cumin and paprika. Vegan cheese can also take these nuggets to the next level if you’re in the mood!
FAQs
1. Can I use dried chickpeas instead of canned?
Absolutely! Just make sure to soak and cook them first. It takes a bit longer but is totally doable!
2. How do I make these gluten-free?
Swap out the breadcrumbs for gluten-free alternatives like almond flour or oat flour!
3. Can I freeze these nuggets before baking?
Yes! Shape them and freeze them on a baking sheet, then transfer to a ziplock. Bake from frozen; just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
📌 Pin this recipe for your next cozy dinner night!
Healthy Vegan Chickpea Nuggets
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs Use gluten-free if needed.
- 1/4 cup nutritional yeast
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- to taste Salt and pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for baking) For brushing before baking.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a bowl, mash the chickpeas with a fork or potato masher until mostly smooth.
- Add breadcrumbs, nutritional yeast, onion, garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper to the mashed chickpeas; mix until well combined.
- Form the mixture into small nugget shapes and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Brush the tops with olive oil.
Cooking
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown.
- Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce.
Notes
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