Chickpea meatballs

Chickpea Patties – A Healthy and Delicious Recipe

Are you looking for a quick and simple recipe that is full of flavor? Chickpea patties are the perfect choice! These patties are not only tasty but also nutritious, being rich in protein and fiber. Plus, making them is a real pleasure, and the result will surely impress your family and friends. Start your culinary adventure with me!

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 55 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Necessary ingredients:
- 300 g cooked chickpeas (about one and a half cups)
- 2 cups oatmeal
- 1/2 small zucchini, grated
- 1 carrot, grated
- 2 slices of bell pepper (preferably red or yellow for added color)
- 2 eggs
- 1 tablespoon sour cream (you can also use Greek yogurt for a lighter version)
- 2-3 tablespoons cottage cheese
- 2-3 tablespoons breadcrumbs (for a crispy crust)
- Fresh parsley, dill, and celery leaves, finely chopped
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Olive oil or butter for greasing the tray

A brief history of chickpea patties
Chickpea patties are a dish that has traversed centuries and cultures, appreciated for their versatility and flavor. They are often associated with vegetarian and vegan diets due to the high content of plant-based protein in chickpeas. Additionally, chickpeas are a versatile ingredient that can be used in various dishes, from hummus to delicious salads.

Step by step, for perfect patties

1. Preparing the ingredients:
Start by grating the carrot, zucchini, and bell pepper. These vegetables will not only add flavor but also color to your dish. Be careful not to make them too wet, or the mixture will be too soft.

2. Mashing the chickpeas:
Use a fork or a blender to mash the cooked chickpeas. You don't need to achieve a fine paste; a few larger pieces will add texture to your patties. If you're using canned chickpeas, make sure to rinse them well to remove excess salt.

3. The mixture:
In a large bowl, combine all the ingredients: the mashed chickpeas, oatmeal, grated vegetables, beaten eggs with sour cream, cottage cheese, breadcrumbs, and chopped herbs. Add salt and pepper to taste. Mix well with a spatula or your hands until you get a homogeneous mixture.

4. Forming the patties:
With wet hands, form patties the size of a golf ball. This method will prevent the mixture from sticking to your palms. Place the patties on a greased tray with olive oil or butter. Make sure they are spaced apart to allow for even baking.

5. Baking:
Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. Bake the patties for 20 minutes, then flip them over and let them bake for another 20 minutes. The golden color is the perfect indicator of patties cooked to perfection!

Serving and combinations
Chickpea patties are delicious served with soy sauce, but you can also try a yogurt garlic sauce or tahini for added flavor. Additionally, they can be accompanied by a fresh salad or a side of grilled vegetables.

Frequently asked questions
1. Can I replace chickpeas with another legume?
Yes! You can use lentils or beans, but the cooking time may vary. Make sure they are cooked and mashed properly.

2. What can I do if I have a mixture that is too wet?
Add a little more breadcrumbs or oatmeal to achieve a more uniform texture.

3. How can I store the patties?
Chickpea patties can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. You can also freeze them – they are perfect for quick meals!

Nutritional values
Per serving, chickpea patties contain approximately:
- Calories: 220
- Protein: 12 g
- Fat: 8 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fiber: 6 g

Final tips
To add a touch of originality, you can experiment with various spices, such as cumin, paprika, or even turmeric, for added flavor. Also, feel free to add other vegetables, such as broccoli or cauliflower, to vary the recipe.

I hope you feel inspired to try this chickpea patties recipe! It is an easy, healthy dish that will bring joy to every meal. Enjoy your meal!