Here's a simple Southern recipe for chickpea fries:
Ingredients:
- 1 cup chickpea flour (also known as gram flour)
- 2 cups water
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Olive oil for frying
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Batter: In a medium saucepan, combine chickpea flour, water, olive oil, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Whisk until smooth and free of lumps.
- Cook the Batter: Place the saucepan over medium heat and cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and pulls away from the sides of the pan, about 5-7 minutes.
- Set the Mixture: Pour the thickened chickpea mixture into a greased baking dish or a lined baking sheet, smoothing the surface. Let it cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until firm.
- Cut the Fries: Once set, turn the chickpea mixture out onto a cutting board and cut into fry-sized sticks.
- Fry the Chickpea Fries: Heat olive oil in a frying pan over medium heat. When the oil is hot, add the chickpea fries in batches, frying until golden and crispy, about 3-4 minutes on each side.
- Drain and Serve: Remove fries from the pan and drain on paper towels. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Enjoy these crispy chickpea fries as a tasty Southern-inspired snack or side dish!
