Crispy Tandoori Roasted Chickpeas

Introduction

Tandoori Roasted Chickpeas are a delectable and healthful snack, providing a burst of flavours inspired by Indian cuisine. This recipe is perfect for air frying, giving you a quick and easy-to-make crispy delight. These chickpeas are not only rich in taste but also packed with nutrients, making them a perfect snack for any time of the day. In this article, we will guide you through a step-by-step method to create these crispy tandoori roasted chickpeas using an air fryer.

Ingredients for tandoori roasted chickpeas

Why Use an Air Fryer?

Using an air fryer is a healthier alternative to traditional frying methods, as it requires significantly less oil. The hot air circulation helps achieve a crispy exterior with a tender inside, similar to deep-frying, but with fewer calories and fat. Additionally, it's incredibly convenient and faster than oven roasting.

Chickpeas in an air fryer basket

Ingredients

  • 2 cups canned chickpeas (drained and rinsed)
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (or olive oil)
  • 1 tablespoon tandoori masala
  • 1 teaspoon cumin powder
  • 1 teaspoon coriander powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Instructions

  1. Start by thoroughly drying the chickpeas. Spread them on a kitchen towel and pat dry to remove any excess moisture. This step is crucial for achieving a crisp texture.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the vegetable oil, tandoori masala, cumin powder, coriander powder, turmeric powder, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and lemon juice. Mix well to form a marinade.
  3. Add the dried chickpeas to the bowl and toss them in the marinade until they are evenly coated.
  4. Preheat your air fryer to 200°C (392°F) for about 3-5 minutes.
  5. Place the marinated chickpeas in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they are not overcrowded. You may need to cook them in batches depending on your air fryer’s size.
  6. Air fry the chickpeas at 200°C for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through cooking to ensure even crisping.
  7. Once done, allow them to cool slightly before serving. They will continue to crisp up as they cool.
Completed crispy tandoori roasted chickpeas

Tips for Perfect Crispy Chickpeas

  • Ensure chickpeas are well-dried before adding the marinade.
  • Shake the air fryer basket halfway to promote even cooking.
  • Adjust spices according to taste. Optional additions include paprika or chilli powder for extra heat.

Storage

Store any leftover tandoori roasted chickpeas in an airtight container. They can last up to a week and are best enjoyed fresh to maintain their crispiness. If they start to lose their crunch, briefly reheat them in the air fryer before serving.

Conclusion

This crispy tandoori roasted chickpeas recipe is not only easy to make but also adds a delightful explosion of flavours to your snack repertoire. It's an excellent way to enjoy a healthy, protein-rich snack with a punch of Indian spices. Perfect for serving as a munchy at gatherings or for a quick pick-me-up snack, these chickpeas are sure to become a favourite!