Description
Crispy, golden chickpea vegetable nuggets made with mashed chickpeas, fresh vegetables, and herbs, perfect as a healthy snack, appetizer, or kid-friendly meal.
Ingredients
2 cups cooked chickpeas (or 1 can, drained and rinsed)
1/2 cup grated carrot
1/4 cup finely diced red bell pepper
1/4 cup finely chopped onion
2 tablespoons chopped parsley or cilantro
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
Salt and black pepper to taste
1/2 cup breadcrumbs (plus more for coating)
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (or chickpea flour for gluten-free)
2–3 tablespoons water or vegetable broth (as needed)
Oil for frying or baking spray
Instructions
In a food processor, pulse chickpeas until coarsely mashed or mash by hand.
In a bowl, combine chickpeas with carrot, bell pepper, onion, parsley, garlic, paprika, cumin, salt, pepper, breadcrumbs, and flour.
Add water or broth gradually until mixture holds together.
Shape into small nuggets or patties.
Coat in extra breadcrumbs.
For frying: Heat oil in skillet, cook 2–3 minutes per side until golden. Drain on paper towels.
For baking: Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway.
Serve with dipping sauce.
Notes
Dry chickpeas well to avoid soggy mixture.
Chill nuggets before cooking for better shape retention.
Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour for a gluten-free version.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying or Baking
Keywords: chickpea nuggets, vegetable nuggets, vegan nuggets, healthy snack, plant-based appetizer