Crispy Chickpea Sliders
Highlighted under: Cozy Kitchen Recipes
I absolutely love making these crispy chickpea sliders! They are not only a delightful vegetarian option, but they pack a flavor punch that is hard to resist. The combination of spices and fresh herbs makes them incredibly savory, and when they’re paired with a zesty sauce, the sliders come alive. I typically serve these at gatherings, and they disappear in minutes! Plus, they are easy to make ahead of time, making them perfect for meal prep too. Trust me, you'll want these on your menu!
When I first tried making chickpea sliders, I was surprised at how delicious they turned out! I blended chickpeas with spices and herbs, then formed them into patties. Baking them gave them that crispy texture I was after. My secret tip is to let them set in the fridge for about 30 minutes before baking, as it helps them hold their shape better.
Since then, I’ve experimented with various toppings and sauces, finding that a homemade tahini sauce pairs wonderfully with the sliders. The contrast of creamy sauce and the crispy texture really elevates the entire dish. You’ll find these sliders are a hit with friends and family!
Reasons You'll Love These Sliders
- Crunchy exterior with a tender inside that satisfies any craving
- Versatile and can be customized with your favorite toppings
- Packed with protein and fiber for a healthy meal option
The Magic of Chickpeas
Chickpeas serve as the foundation for these sliders, not only providing a hearty texture but also an excellent source of plant-based protein and fiber. When mashed, they become a glue-like base that holds the sliders together, ensuring they don't fall apart during baking or assembly. Their mild flavor is easily enhanced by the spices and herbs, making them incredibly versatile for various culinary inspirations. Make sure to mash them just enough to retain small chunks; they add a delightful mouthfeel.
Another fantastic aspect of chickpeas is their ability to absorb flavors. This means that the longer you allow the mixture to rest before cooking, the more intense the spices and herbs will penetrate the chickpeas. If you have time, consider preparing the mixture a few hours in advance or even the night before to amplify the taste. Just cover it with plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator until you're ready to form the patties.
Baking for the Perfect Crispy Texture
Baking the sliders is key to achieving that desirable crispy exterior without the need for frying. Preheating the oven to 400°F (200°C) ensures that the patties cook evenly, with a chance of developing a nice golden-brown crust. Remember to flip the patties halfway through baking; this allows both sides to crisp up, ensuring that you don't end up with soggy bottoms. Keep a close eye on them during the last minutes; you want them golden and slightly firm to the touch.
For an even crispier finish, you can kick things up a notch by using a convection setting if your oven has one. The circulating air will help to create that crunchier texture. Also, try to space the patties out on the baking sheet, giving them room to breathe. Crowding can lead to steaming instead of baking, which may prevent them from achieving that satisfying crunch.
Ingredients
Gather these ingredients for delicious crispy chickpea sliders:
Crispy Chickpea Slider Ingredients
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 1/4 cup finely chopped parsley
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 egg, beaten (or flax egg for vegan option)
- Olive oil for brushing
- Burger buns and toppings of choice
Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let's start cooking!
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to make your sliders:
Prepare the Chickpea Mixture
In a large bowl, mash the chickpeas with a fork or potato masher until chunky. Add the breadcrumbs, onion, parsley, garlic, cumin, paprika, and the beaten egg. Season with salt and pepper. Mix well until combined.
Form the Patties
Take a handful of the chickpea mixture and shape it into a patty about 1/2 inch thick. Repeat with the remaining mixture. Place the patties on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Bake the Sliders
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Brush the patties lightly with olive oil. Bake for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden and crispy.
Assemble and Serve
Place the crispy chickpea sliders on burger buns and top with your favorite condiments and veggies. Serve warm and enjoy!
Now that your sliders are ready, dig in and savor each bite!
Pro Tips
- For extra flavor, consider adding some shredded carrots or cilantro to the mixture. You can also experiment with different spices based on your preference.
Serving Suggestions and Variations
These crispy chickpea sliders are incredibly adaptable; you can customize the toppings to fit your taste. Classic options like lettuce, tomato, and a zesty yogurt sauce pair wonderfully, but don’t shy away from experimenting. Consider avocado slices for creaminess or pickled vegetables for a sharp contrast. You could even try a mango salsa for a tropical twist. Get creative and make them your own!
If you're looking to add an extra layer of flavor, consider mixing in some shredded cheese into the chickpea mixture or topping the finished sliders with melted cheese. Vegan cheese is an excellent substitute that can add that creamy element without compromising on taste. These additions can elevate the sliders, making them even more filling and satisfying.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
One of the greatest benefits of these sliders is how well they lend themselves to meal prep. You can prepare the chickpea mixture and form the patties ahead of time. Keep them in the refrigerator for up to two days before baking, or freeze them for longer storage. To freeze, place the formed patties in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer them to an airtight container with parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. They’ll last up to three months in the freezer.
When you’re ready to cook, there's no need to thaw; just bake them directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time. Reheating leftovers is equally simple. Pop them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through and crisped back up. This method keeps the exterior crunchy while heating the interior thoroughly.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make these sliders in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the patties ahead of time and freeze them. Just bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
→ What can I use instead of egg?
A flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) is a great vegan substitute for binding.
→ How can I store leftovers?
Store leftover patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.
→ What toppings do you recommend?
I love using avocado, sliced tomatoes, fresh greens, and a drizzle of tahini or spicy aioli!
Crispy Chickpea Sliders
I absolutely love making these crispy chickpea sliders! They are not only a delightful vegetarian option, but they pack a flavor punch that is hard to resist. The combination of spices and fresh herbs makes them incredibly savory, and when they’re paired with a zesty sauce, the sliders come alive. I typically serve these at gatherings, and they disappear in minutes! Plus, they are easy to make ahead of time, making them perfect for meal prep too. Trust me, you'll want these on your menu!
Created by: Emily
Recipe Type: Cozy Kitchen Recipes
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Crispy Chickpea Slider Ingredients
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 1/4 cup finely chopped parsley
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 egg, beaten (or flax egg for vegan option)
- Olive oil for brushing
- Burger buns and toppings of choice
How-To Steps
In a large bowl, mash the chickpeas with a fork or potato masher until chunky. Add the breadcrumbs, onion, parsley, garlic, cumin, paprika, and the beaten egg. Season with salt and pepper. Mix well until combined.
Take a handful of the chickpea mixture and shape it into a patty about 1/2 inch thick. Repeat with the remaining mixture. Place the patties on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Brush the patties lightly with olive oil. Bake for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden and crispy.
Place the crispy chickpea sliders on burger buns and top with your favorite condiments and veggies. Serve warm and enjoy!
Extra Tips
- For extra flavor, consider adding some shredded carrots or cilantro to the mixture. You can also experiment with different spices based on your preference.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Total Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
- Sodium: 210mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 45g
- Dietary Fiber: 10g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 13g