Loaded Shawarma Fries with Chickpeas

Loaded Shawarma Fries with Chickpeas

Description:

These Loaded Shawarma Fries with Chickpeas are a bold and flavorful fusion dish combining crispy oven-baked fries with spiced chickpeas, tangy yogurt garlic sauce, and fresh toppings. A healthier twist on classic loaded fries, perfect as a snack, appetizer, or light meal with Middle Eastern flair.

Total Time:

Prep time: 15 minutes

Cook time: 30 minutes

Total time: 45 minutes

Servings: 3–4

Ingredients:

For the Fries:

3 large russet potatoes (or sweet potatoes), cut into fries

2 tbsp olive oi

1 tsp paprika

½ tsp garlic powder

½ tsp cumin

Salt & pepper to taste

For the Shawarma-Spiced Chickpeas:

1 can (400g) chickpeas, drained and rinsed

1 tbsp olive oil

1 tsp cumin

1 tsp smoked paprika

½ tsp turmeric

½ tsp coriander

½ tsp cinnamon

Pinch of chili flakes (optional)

Salt to taste

For the Garlic Yogurt Sauce:

½ cup Greek yogurt

1 clove garlic, minced or grated

Juice of ½ lemon

1 tbsp tahini (optional

Salt to taste

1 tbsp water (to thin if needed)

Toppings:

¼ cup crumbled feta or halloumi (optional)

¼ cup diced cucumber

¼ cup diced tomatoes

2 tbsp red onion, thinly sliced

Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped

Pomegranate seeds (optional, for a sweet pop)

Pickled turnips or chilies (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Fries:

Preheat oven to 220°C (425°F).

Toss potato slices in olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.

Spread evenly on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy.

2. Cook the Chickpeas:

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.

Add chickpeas and all shawarma spices. Stir and sauté for 8–10 minutes until chickpeas are slightly crispy and aromatic.

Taste and adjust salt if needed.

3. Make the Garlic Yogurt Sauce:

Mix yogurt, garlic, lemon juice, tahini (if using), salt, and water until smooth.

Set aside in fridge to chill.

4. Assemble the Loaded Fries:

Place hot fries on a serving plate or tray.

Top with warm shawarma-spiced chickpeas.

Drizzle generously with garlic yogurt sauce.

Add diced cucumbers, tomatoes, red onion, feta or halloumi, parsley, and any extras like pomegranate seeds or pickles.

5. Serve:

Serve warm as a hearty snack, appetizer, or light main course.

Nutrition Info (Per Serving, Approx. for 4 servings):

Nutrient Amount

Calories ~350 kcal

Protein 11g

Carbohydrates 42g

Fiber 8g

Sugars 5g

Fat 15g

Saturated Fat 3g

Sodium ~380mg

Note: Nutrition may vary based on toppings and cheese used.

Questions & Answers:

Q: Can I use store-bought frozen fries?

A: Yes, for convenience you can air fry or bake frozen fries and add the toppings as instructed.

Q: Is this recipe vegan?

A: Easily! Skip the cheese or use vegan cheese and make sure to use a dairy-free yogurt like coconut or soy yogurt.

Q: Can I add protein like chicken or tofu?

A: Definitely! Grilled shawarma-spiced chicken or crispy tofu would be a delicious addition.

Q: How do I make it spicier?

A: Add cayenne or chili flakes to the chickpeas and top with a spicy harissa or chili sauce drizzle.

Q: How long can leftovers last?

A: Best enjoyed fresh, but you can store components separatel

y for up to 2 days and reassemble before serving.

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