Vegan Chickpea Bites with Garlic Dip
These Vegan Chickpea Bites are crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and packed with protein, fiber, and bold flavors. Made with chickpeas, herbs, and spices, they’re a healthy, plant-based alternative to nuggets or falafel. Served with a creamy garlic dip, they make the perfect snack, appetizer, or protein addition to salads and grain bowls.
Ingredients
(Serves 4-6)
For the Chickpea Bites:
1 (15 oz) can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
¼ cup oat flour (or breadcrumbs)
¼ cup chopped fresh parsley or cilantro
2 tbsp ground flaxseed + 5 tbsp water (flax egg)
2 cloves garlic, minced
½ small onion, finely chopped
1 tsp ground cumin
½ tsp ground coriander
½ tsp paprika
½ tsp turmeric (optional, for color and anti-inflammatory benefits)
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 tbsp olive oil (for mixing)
1 tbsp olive oil (for frying, if pan-frying)
For the Garlic Dip:
½ cup vegan mayo or unsweetened coconut yogurt
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 tbsp olive oil
½ tsp dried oregano or dill
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper
Instructions
1. Prepare the Chickpea Mixture
1. In a small bowl, mix ground flaxseed with water and let it sit for 5 minutes to form a flax egg.
2. In a food processor, combine chickpeas, onion, garlic, parsley, lemon juice, and olive oil. Pulse until slightly chunky.
3. Add the oat flour, cumin, coriander, paprika, turmeric, salt, and black pepper. Pulse until a dough forms. The mixture should hold together when pressed; if too dry, add 1 tbsp water. If too wet, add more oat flour.
4. Transfer to a bowl, cover, and refrigerate for 15-20 minutes (this helps firm up the mixture).
2. Shape & Cook the Chickpea Bites
5. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) if baking or heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a pan if frying.
6. Scoop 1 tbsp of the mixture and roll into small balls or flatten into nugget shapes.
7. Baking Method:
Place on a lined baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
8. Pan-Frying Method:
Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook chickpea bites for 3-4 minutes per side until golden and crisp.
9. Air-Fryer Method:
Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway.
3. Prepare the Garlic Dip
10. In a bowl, whisk together vegan mayo, minced garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, oregano, salt, and black pepper.
11. Chill in the fridge for 10 minutes to let the flavors meld.
4. Serve & Enjoy
12. Serve chickpea bites warm with garlic dip and garnish with fresh parsley. Enjoy as a snack, in wraps, or on top of salads!
Nutritional Information
(Per Serving – Based on 6 Servings)
Calories: ~180 kcal
Protein: 6g
Carbohydrates: 22g
Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Fiber: 5g
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 250mg
Cooking Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Chill Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: ~55 minutes
Notes & Tips
Gluten-Free Option: Use oat flour instead of breadcrumbs for a gluten-free version.
Extra Crispy: For crunchier bites, brush with a little olive oil before baking.
Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne or chili powder for a spicy kick.
Storage: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
Reheating: Warm in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10 minutes or air-fry for 5 minutes to regain crispiness.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the chickpea mixture a day in advance and store it in the fridge before shaping and cooking.
2. What can I use instead of chickpeas?
Try using white beans, lentils, or mashed sweet potatoes for a different take on these bites.
3. Can I bake instead of frying?
Absolutely! Baking at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes gives a crispy exterior with less oil.
4. How do I make the garlic dip without vegan mayo?
Use unsweetened coconut yogurt, cashew cream, or tahini for a healthier, tangy dip.
5. What can I serve these chickpea bites with?
In wraps with lettuce, tomato, and tahini sauce.
On top of salads for extra protein.
With hummus or tzatziki as a dipping sauce.
As a side with roasted veggies and grains.
6. Can I freeze them?
Yes! Freeze uncooked chickpea bites on a tray, then transfer to a freezer bag. Cook from frozen by adding 5-7 minutes to the baking time.
7. Are these kid-friendly?
Yes! They’re soft, easy to eat, and can be made mild in flavor for kids. Serve with ketchup or a non-spicy dip for picky eaters.
These Vegan Chickpea Bites with Garlic Dip are a healthy, protein-packed, and versatile snack perfect for any occasion. Whether baked, fried, or air-fried, they deliver crispy, flavorful bites that pair beautifully with the creamy garlic dip. Enjoy them as a snack, in a wrap, or as a plant-based protein boost in meals!