Tea time is a whole phenomenon in India. Sure we’re picky about how we like our tea, but we’re also super picky about the snacks that go with it! From pakoras to murukku, there are a whole bunch of favourites when it comes to tea time snacks. While these snacks are delicious, they aren’t really healthy. Air Fryer Chickpeas help bridge the gap between healthy and tasty snacks!
Chickpeas are a vegetarian’s best friend. They’re a great source of protein, fibre, vitamins and minerals. Since they have a low glycemic index, they’re particularly great for diabetics and people trying to manage their blood sugar levels. My dad’s a diabetic, but a diabetic who loves to snack! I developed this recipe as a way to control his tea time indulgences and it’s been quite a success!
Air Fryer vs. Oven
I know the recipe title says air fryer, but it’s worth exploring the oven as well. Both methods have their advantages and disadvantages.
Texture – Due to the circulation of hot air, the air fryer tends to yield crispier results when compared to an oven.
Time – There’s no doubt that the air fryer gets the job done a lot faster than an oven. What takes 20-25 minutes would take double the amount of time in an oven.
Batch Size – If you’re looking to make a small batch, then the air fryer works for you. However for larger batches, the oven is certainly easier as you can fill a whole tray full of chickpeas.
Heat Distribution – An oven provides a more even distribution of heat when compared to the air fryer, which results in uniformly cooked chickpeas. You’ll have to shake your basket every now and then while air frying and even then, you might have some pieces that are more crispy than others.
Energy Efficiency – Since the air fryer is generally a smaller appliance than an oven, it consumes lesser energy.
A great assist to air fryer cooking is an oil sprayer and this Stay Fit Oil Sprayer allows you to use preferred oil. It also makes a little bit of oil go a long way, something that’s great whether you’re using an air fryer or a pan.
I’ve chosen to make this recipe with dried chickpeas. Of course, that involves soaking, cooking and drying them out, but I did a big batch and made some hummus along with it. You can also use tinned chickpeas which makes this recipe a lot easier. I’ve used lime, chilli powder and salt on my chickpeas but as always, you can use whatever spice you like. Garlic powder, cumin, peri peri, pepper, chipotle, the list is endless! Pick your favourite and get snacking!
Check out these other recipes made in the Air Fryer!
Air Fryer Chickpeas
Equipment
- Air Fryer
Ingredients
- ½ cup Dried Chickpeas
- 1 tbsp Olive Oil
- ½-¾ tsp Chilli Powder
- 1 tsp Salt
- 1 Lime
Instructions
- Wash and soak the chickpeas overnight.
- Discard the soaked water and place chickpeas into a pressure cooker with enough water to cover them.
- Place on high heat until 1 whistle and then reduce the heat to low and cook for 5-7 minutes until chickpeas are cooked.
- Drain the chickpeas and allow them to cool.
- Mix the chickpeas with the oil, chilli powder, lime and salt.
- Place into the air fryer and cook at 160°C for 25 minutes or until the chickpeas are crunchy.
- Allow them to cool slightly for maximum crunchiness!
- Serve immediately.
