I recently decided I wanted to fry some chickpeas. After doing a little research, I took the leap. Because I laugh in the face of danger. *insert evil laugh*
You'll need:
*A skillet/frying pan (preferably large)
*1 or 2 cans of 15oz chickpeas
*2 tablespoons coconut oil
*An array of spices: I used salt, cayenne pepper,
curry powder and ancho chile powder.
I would have also included cumin, but I was out.
*Cooking goggles (sunglasses?) (I'm not kidding, y'all.
Chickpeas pop (sometimes OUT of the pan), the oil splatters,
and you will get f*cking burned. Your face is not exempt
from these random attacks.)
I started out by rinsing and peeling the chickpeas, setting the broth aside in a container to use later for making soup or cooking. I read somewhere that peeling them ultimately results in crispier garbanzo beans. I also read that, if making hummus, peeling them, results in a creamier product. To peel the 'peas, you drain after rinsing and place on a paper towel. I use a plate to house the towel. Envelop the beans in the p/t, applying a little pressure and jostling/wriggling them around beneath the towel. This loosens the shell. It also helps dry the beans.
After peeling them individually--yes, this is a labor of love, but well worth the time--you're left with empty shells. Discard them. Some might feel this is a tedious part of the process, but quite honestly, I sort of relish the time it takes up. I use it to think, express gratitude, or just watch TV while standing in my kitchen. Truth be told, you can peel the 'peas sitting on your couch. The process is not all that messy.
VoilĂ ! You're left with shiny, pretty, gleaming chickpeas. Go ahead and heat up your coconut oil.
Throw the chickpeas into your pan. I use my
GreenPan, gifted to me by a friend. I looooove this thing. It's huge! You could probably fry two cans in this, but I only had one.
Fry the 'peas for about 20 minutes or so (covered, stirring intermittently), or until they reach the desired crispness. BE CAREFUL. When I did this, the oil popped up and stung me on my arms and in the face!! I add spices while frying, and once this part is completed, I drain them, and apply more spices while hot, so the coating of seasonings stick.
And finally. . .the finished product.
Fin.
In closing. . .you have crispety, crunchety, vegan-y deliciousness. I'm certain adults and children alike will love this lil' snack. Perfect for a holdover until lunch or dinner time!
Enjoy!
~
Until we meet again...
Live Glamourously.