Roasted Chickpeas
Hey look, I get it. Sometimes after a long day in the office, in the factory, in the carpool, in the coal mine, or in the waiting line, you just need something to unwind and relieve the stress of the day, Maybe it is three fingers of scotch, maybe it is a cold beer or six, maybe it is a glass of wine or three. Whatever it is, you just want to come home, put on your comfy clothes, and curl up with the glass or the bottle and a good book. But you can’t unwind and enjoy good literature without something to eat as well.
So, I have the perfect cocktail snack for you to enjoy while you are knocking back a cold one. Now, I won’t wax poetic about how good it is for you (although they are) because you have had a long day and just want something to tide you over until dinner. But I can say these are better than chips, popcorn, pretzels, or even corn nuts. Yes, my next recipe is ROASTED CHICKPEAS. These aren’t fancy or pretentious; however, they hit the spot with their salty and smoky flavor. They are just the thing you need after a long day.
Ingredients
- 1 Lbs Dried Chickpeas
- 2 Tbs Grapeseed Oil
- 1 Tsp Kosher Salt
- 1 Tsp Garlic Powder
- 1 Tsp Smoked Paprika
- ¼ Tsp Black Pepper
Instructions
I know it has been a long day, and I wish this recipe could be whipped up in a matter of minutes. However, just like your scotch took 18 years to mature, this snack takes a little bit of time. Trust me, though, it is worth it. Take your dried chickpeas and place them in a large mixing bowl. Add enough water to cover them plus two inches. Soak them over night (24 hours is best). Preheat your oven to 425 degrees.
After soaking, drain and rinse the chickpeas, then dry them thoroughly on a clean dish towel. Place them in a mixing bowl and add in the oil, salt, garlic powder, paprika, and pepper. Mix to combine well and pour the beans onto a cookie sheet coated with cooking spray. Roast the beans for 40-45 minutes, stirring every 10 minutes, or until the chickpeas are golden brown and crispy. If some of the peas get a bit darker, that is not a problem. Those darker peas will just add to the flavor. I promise.
Notes
The long prep time is required to soak the chickpeas overnight.
A bag of happiness
There you have it: a nice smoky/salty/healthy snack. If you pair these roasted beauties with a glass of red wine (full of antioxidants), you are basically taking a multi-vitamin after a long day on the job. So please enjoy this snack as you unwind. Who knew you could be healthy and relaxed at the same time?? And if your scotch is over 18 years old, give me a call and send some my way. Longer Letter Later.
Love, Bob aka The Grassfed Carnivore
Sound terrific, may I ask why you can not use canned chick peas cutting out the overnight soaking?
You can use canned chickpeas but they don’t all get super crunchy. I like my roasted peas like corn nuts. Let me know how the recipe turns out.