Spiced Quinoa and Chickpea Bites

Ingredients for Spiced Quinoa and Chickpea Bites

• 1 (400g) can chickpeas, drained, rinsed

• 80ml extra-virgin olive oil

• 2 garlic cloves, peeled, smashed

• 1 teaspoon kosher salt

• 1/2 teaspoons ground cumin

• 1/4 teaspoons cayenne pepper (optional)

• 1/4 teaspoons ground cinnamon

• 1 large egg

• 2 tablespoons smooth almond butter or sunbutter

• 300ml cooked quinoa (preferably red)

• Vegetable oil (for frying

• about 180ml )

Cook chickpeas, olive oil, garlic, salt, cumin, cayenne (if using), and cinnamon in a medium skillet over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally, until garlic has softened and spices are fragrant, 3–4 minutes. Let cool slightly, then transfer to a food processor. Add egg and almond butter and pulse until a smooth paste forms. Transfer to a medium bowl and stir in quinoa.

Scoop out 1 heaping Tbsp. chickpea mixture and use wet hands to roll into a ping pong–size ball. Flatten slightly between your palms, then transfer to a parchment-lined rimmed baking sheet. Repeat with remaining chickpea mixture (you should have about 16 patties).

Pour vegetable oil into a medium cast-iron skillet or Dutch oven to a depth of 1/2". Heat over medium-high until shimmering. Working in batches if needed, fry patties, turning often with a slotted spoon, until golden brown, 4–5 minutes. Transfer to a paper towel–lined plate to drain and let cool slightly.

Do Ahead: Chickpea mixture can be formed into patties 1 day ahead. Cover with plastic and chill, or freeze on baking sheet until solid, at least 2 hours, then transfer to a resealable plastic bag and freeze up to 3 months. Fry directly from frozen, adding about 1 minute to cook time.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.