Substitute nachos with crispy chickpeas: Here's why
What's the story
Swapping traditional nachos for crispy chickpeas can be a smart choice for those looking for a fiber-rich snack. Packed with nutrients, chickpeas (or garbanzo beans) have a crunchy texture that can satisfy your cravings without adding the extra calories of typical nacho toppings. Here's how crispy chickpeas can make an excellent nacho alternative, complete with their nutritional benefits and preparation method.
#1
Nutritional benefits of chickpeas
Chickpeas are an amazing source of dietary fiber, which promotes digestion and keeps cholesterol levels in check. Just a cup of chickpeas has about 12 grams of fiber, which makes them an amazing choice for anyone looking to up their daily intake. They're also a great source of protein and vitamins like B6 and folate. These nutrients promote health by boosting metabolism and preventing chronic diseases.
#2
Easy preparation methods
Preparing crispy chickpeas is easy and you need very few ingredients. Rinse canned chickpeas well to get rid of extra sodium. Pat them dry with a paper towel before tossing in olive oil, salt, pepper, or your preferred spices like paprika or cumin. Spread the seasoned chickpeas on a baking sheet and roast at 200 degrees Celsius for about 30 minutes until they are golden brown and crunchy.
#3
Versatile flavor options
Crispy chickpeas can be customized with different flavors according to your taste. For a spicy kick, add cayenne pepper or chili powder before roasting them. If you want something sweet, try dusting them with cinnamon or cocoa powder after baking. The versatility allows you to experiment with different seasonings every time you make them, keeping your snack exciting.
Tip 4
Cost-effective snack choice
Chickpeas are way cheaper than many store-bought packaged snacks these days. A can of chickpeas costs about $1 or ₹80 (depending on where you live) and gives you several servings per batch when roasted at home. Not only is it budget-friendly, but you also have a say in the ingredients used in the preparation, without any preservatives that are usually found in store-bought ones.