Roasted Chickpeas/Chana and its Health Benefits
This is a typical Indian snack that is consumed in almost every household. Yet, we have never stopped to think of the immense health benefits of the can of roasted chana lying at the back of our cupboards.
Learn about the benefits of chickpeas here:
- Protein-packed
- Fat-free and sodium-free
- Gives energy boost
- Helps lower heart-disease risk
- May reduce cancer-risk
- Low glycemic index (suitable for patients suffering from diabetes)
- Helps lower blood sugar
- Rich in dietary fiber
- Source of calcium, magnesium and potassium
- Contains beneficial folate, minerals and fatty acids
Added benefit – Tastes awesome
Remember to store in an airtight container away from moisture and humidity.
How to use:
Mix some roasted chana with finely chopped onions and tomatoes. Add a bit of chaat masala and lemon juice and enjoy this salty, tangy snack. You can also use these roasted chana by adding it to “chaats”.
How to Make Roasted Chickpeas at Home
- Soak dry chickpeas for 6-8 hours or overnight.
- Then boil them for 15 minutes until they are tender.
- Drain and dry with a clean kitchen towel. Make sure they are dried well.
- You can also use canned chickpeas or garbanzo beans. Follow same procedure for drying.
- Pre-heat your oven to 400F.
- Roast the dried chickpeas in a baking tray lined with parchment paper for 20-25 minutes, stirring them around halfway through.
- Cool them completely after baking.
- Then re-bake them at 400F for 10-15 minutes, tossing in between.
- You’ll have chickpeas that are crunchy and golden.
- Cool again completely before storing them in airtight containers.
This is an oil-free recipe.
You can also add olive oil and sprinkle with salt, pepper, chilli powder, turmeric, chaat masala, or any other spice or herb that tickles your fancy. Remember that the more oil you add the more crispy the chickpeas will turn out. Just find the right balance between taste and health.
Add some lemon juice and sprinkle with coriander when you serve. They are seriously addictive in nature. You won’t be able to keep your hands off them once you try them.
