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Air Fryer Chickpeas (No Oil!): A Crunchy, Healthy Snack

In recent years, the air fryer has revolutionised the way we prepare our favourite snacks. With its ability to create crispy textures without the need for excess oil, it has become a kitchen staple for health-conscious individuals. One of the most delightful and nutritious snacks you can make in an air fryer is oil-free air fryer chickpeas. Whether you’re looking for a quick nibble, a protein-packed addition to your salads, or a crunchy topping for soups, these air-fried chickpeas will surely satisfy your cravings.

Why Chickpeas?

Chickpeas, or garbanzo beans, are renowned for their nutritional benefits. They are an excellent source of protein, dietary fibre, and a variety of essential vitamins and minerals, including folate, iron, and magnesium. Additionally, they have numerous health benefits, such as aiding digestion, improving heart health, and even helping with weight management.

Ingredients

To make oil-free air fryer chickpeas, you will need:

• 1 can of chickpeas (400g), drained and rinsed
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika (smoked or regular, depending on your preference)
• ½ teaspoon ground cumin
• Salt, to taste
• Black pepper, to taste
• Optional: A pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick

Method

1. Prepare the Chickpeas: Begin by preheating your air fryer to 200°C (about 400°F). While the air fryer is heating, drain and thoroughly rinse the chickpeas under cold water. To achieve the crispiest results, it’s important to remove as much moisture as possible. You can do this by gently patting them dry with paper towels.

2. Season the Chickpeas: In a mixing bowl, add the dried chickpeas, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cumin, salt, and black pepper. If you’re feeling adventurous, sprinkle in a pinch of cayenne pepper. Toss all the ingredients together until the chickpeas are evenly coated in the spices.

3. Air Fry the Chickpeas: Place the seasoned chickpeas into the air fryer basket in a single layer. Make sure they’re not overcrowded, as this can prevent them from crisping properly. Air fry the chickpeas at 200°C for approximately 15 to 20 minutes. Shake the basket halfway through the cooking time to ensure even cooking.

4. Check for Crispiness: Keep an eye on the chickpeas as they cook, particularly toward the end of the cooking time. Timing may vary based on your air fryer model, so you may want to test a few to ensure they reach your desired level of crunchiness.

5. Cool and Serve: Once they are golden brown and crispy, remove the chickpeas from the air fryer and let them cool for a few minutes. They will continue to harden slightly as they cool. Taste and add more salt if needed.

Enjoying Your Oil-Free Air Fryer Chickpeas

Oil-free air fryer chickpeas are incredibly versatile. Enjoy them as a standalone snack or toss them into salads for an extra crunch. They also make a delicious topping for soups, adding both texture and flavour. For a bit of variety, you can experiment with different spices—try adding cinnamon and nutmeg for a sweet twist, or oregano and thyme for an herby flavour.

Storage Tips

If you manage to have any leftovers (although they rarely last long!), store the air-fried chickpeas in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. However, for the best crunch, it’s often best to enjoy them fresh out of the air fryer.

Conclusion

Oil-free air fryer chickpeas are not only easy to prepare but also make for a nutritious and delicious snack that you can feel good about eating. With just a handful of simple ingredients and minimal preparation, you can savour the delightful crunch of these versatile legumes. Whether you enjoy them plain, spiced, or incorporated into your meals, they’re sure to become a favourite in your snack rotation. So grab your air fryer and get ready to whip up this healthy treat!

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