Looking for a crispy, flavorful snack that’s both vegan and packed with protein? Chickpea fries are a fantastic alternative to traditional potato fries, offering a unique texture and a rich, nutty flavor.
These fries are made primarily from chickpea flour, which not only makes them gluten-free but also gives them a satisfying crispiness on the outside while remaining tender inside. Perfect as a snack, appetizer, or side dish, chickpea fries are versatile and easy to make at home.
Inspired by Mediterranean and Middle Eastern street food, this recipe combines simple pantry staples with bold spices to create a delicious treat that everyone will enjoy. Whether you’re hosting a party, craving a healthy snack, or looking to add more plant-based meals to your routine, these vegan chickpea fries are a must-try.
Plus, they pair wonderfully with a variety of dips and sauces to elevate your snacking game!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Chickpea fries are not only delicious but also incredibly nutritious. Made with chickpea flour, they are high in protein and fiber, making them a satisfying and healthy alternative to traditional fries.
These fries are naturally gluten-free and vegan, perfect for those with dietary restrictions or anyone seeking wholesome comfort food.
The crispy exterior and soft interior make them irresistibly tasty, and the spices add a depth of flavor that makes every bite exciting. Plus, they’re easy to make with minimal ingredients and can be baked or air-fried for a lower-fat option.
You’ll love how quickly they come together and how versatile they are for pairing with your favorite vegan dips!
Ingredients
- 1 cup chickpea flour (besan)
- 1/2 cup water
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, plus more for brushing
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon nutritional yeast (optional, for a cheesy flavor)
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped for garnish (optional)
Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk or spoon for mixing
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mat
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife and cutting board
- Oven or air fryer
- Pastry brush (optional, for olive oil brushing)
- Sharp knife or pizza cutter for slicing fries
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the chickpea flour, baking powder, garlic powder, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, pepper, and nutritional yeast (if using). Ensure all the spices are well combined for even flavor distribution.
- Add the water and olive oil to the dry ingredients. Whisk thoroughly until you get a smooth, thick batter that’s pourable but not too runny. It should have a consistency similar to pancake batter.
- Transfer the batter to the prepared baking sheet and spread it evenly into a rectangle about 1/4 to 1/3 inch thick using a spatula. The thickness will affect the crispiness and cooking time.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes until the edges start to firm up and the top looks partially set but not fully browned.
- Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the chickpea “flatbread” cool for about 5 minutes. Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, cut it into fry-shaped sticks, roughly 1/2 inch wide and 3-4 inches long.
- Brush the fries lightly with olive oil on both sides to promote crispiness.
- Flip the fries carefully and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the fries are golden and crispy on all sides.
- Remove from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or cilantro if desired.
- Serve hot with your favorite vegan dips like garlic aioli, spicy ketchup, or tahini sauce.
Tips & Variations
“To get the crispiest chickpea fries, make sure to spread the batter evenly and keep the thickness consistent. Also, flipping the fries halfway through baking ensures they cook evenly and develop a beautiful golden crust.”
- Spice it up: Add chili powder or cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
- Herbs: Mix fresh chopped rosemary or thyme into the batter for an herby twist.
- Baking vs. Air Frying: These fries can also be air-fried at 400°F for about 15 minutes, shaking halfway, for an extra crispy result with less oil.
- Gluten-Free: Chickpea flour is naturally gluten-free, making this recipe suitable for gluten-sensitive folks.
- Make-ahead: You can prepare the batter in advance and bake when ready. Leftover fries are great reheated in an oven or air fryer.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Amount per Serving (approx.) |
---|---|
Calories | 150 kcal |
Protein | 6 grams |
Fat | 6 grams |
Carbohydrates | 18 grams |
Fiber | 4 grams |
Sodium | 280 mg |
Serving Suggestions
Chickpea fries are delicious on their own but truly shine when paired with tasty dips. Try a vegan garlic aioli, a zesty tomato salsa, or creamy tahini sauce for dipping.
They also make a great side to Peruvian Vegetable Recipes for Flavorful Healthy Meals or alongside a fresh salad for a light lunch.
For a fun twist, serve with a vegan cheese sauce like in our Vegan Bechamel Sauce Recipe for Creamy Pasta Dishes, or add them as a crunchy topping over soups such as the Low Calorie Vegetable Soup Recipe for Healthy Eating.
Conclusion
Chickpea fries are a delightful, healthy, and vegan-friendly way to enjoy a crispy snack without the guilt. Packed with protein and fiber from chickpea flour, these fries offer a nutritious alternative to traditional potato fries.
The blend of spices elevates their flavor, making them perfect for any occasion—whether as a party appetizer, a side dish, or a wholesome snack.
Best of all, they’re easy to make with simple ingredients and can be baked or air-fried to suit your preference. If you’re looking to add more plant-based recipes to your repertoire, this chickpea fries recipe is a great place to start.
Don’t forget to check out other delicious vegan recipes on our site for more inspiration!
📖 Recipe Card: Chickpea Fries Recipe Vegan
Description: Crispy and flavorful chickpea fries that are perfect as a snack or side dish. These vegan fries are easy to make and packed with protein.
Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT25M
Total Time: PT40M
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup chickpea flour (besan)
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons nutritional yeast (optional)
- 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- Oil for frying
Instructions
- In a bowl, whisk chickpea flour, water, olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, nutritional yeast, and cornstarch until smooth.
- Stir in chopped parsley.
- Pour the batter into a greased baking pan and spread evenly.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15 minutes until firm.
- Let it cool, then cut into fry-shaped strips.
- Heat oil in a pan over medium heat.
- Fry the chickpea strips until golden and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side.
- Drain on paper towels and serve warm.
Nutrition: Calories: 180 kcal | Protein: 8 g | Fat: 6 g | Carbs: 22 g
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