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Chickpea Vegetable Nuggets

Crispy Chickpea Vegetable Nuggets for Guilt-Free Snacking

These Chickpea Vegetable Nuggets offer a crispy exterior paired with a tender, flavorful interior, perfect for a healthy snack.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 nuggets
Course: Snacks
Cuisine: Vegan
Calories: 120

Ingredients
  

For the Base
  • 1 can Canned Chickpeas Always drain and rinse.
  • 1 cup Grated Zucchini Feel free to swap in grated carrots or other veggies.
  • 1 cup Grated Carrot Adjust amount for sweetness.
  • 1 small Minced Onion Onion powder is a substitute.
For Seasoning
  • 1 tbsp Italian Seasoning Mix dried herbs like oregano and basil.
  • 1 tsp Sea Salt Modify according to dietary needs.
  • 1 clove Garlic (Fresh or Powder) Adjust quantity to taste.
  • 1/2 tsp Black Pepper Adjust to taste preferences.
  • 1 tsp Paprika Consider smoked paprika for extra flavor.
For Binding and Coating
  • 2 large Eggs Substitute with flax eggs if vegan.
  • 2 tbsp Olive or Avocado Oil Add more for pan-frying if needed.
  • 1 cup Oat Flour or Breadcrumbs Finely ground alternatives like almond flour work.

Equipment

  • food processor
  • Skillet
  • Kitchen Towel

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Start by grating the zucchini and carrots, then place them in a clean kitchen towel. Squeeze firmly to extract excess moisture, ensuring your nuggets have the right texture. Set aside the drained vegetables.
  2. In a food processor, combine the drained chickpeas, prepared zucchini, grated carrots, minced onion, and all remaining ingredients: Italian seasoning, garlic, salt, pepper, paprika, and eggs. Pulse until well combined but still slightly chunky.
  3. Heat a generous splash of olive or avocado oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, use a tablespoon or small scoop to portion the nugget mixture into the pan.
  4. Cook the nuggets for 3–5 minutes on one side, or until golden brown. Carefully flip each nugget and cook for an additional 3–5 minutes on the other side.
  5. Remove the nuggets from the skillet and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce.

Nutrition

Serving: 1nuggetCalories: 120kcalCarbohydrates: 18gProtein: 5gFat: 4gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 63mgSodium: 200mgPotassium: 200mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 6mgCalcium: 30mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Don't over-mix the mixture; squeeze excess moisture to avoid soggy nuggets. For air frying, cook at 400°F for about 12 minutes, flipping halfway through.

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