Spicy Panko Chickpea Patties

If you’re looking for a delicious, hearty dish that’s bursting with flavor, look no further than these Spicy Panko Chickpea Patties. They’re a fantastic way to incorporate more plant-based protein into your meals while satisfying your taste buds with a kick of spice. Perfect as a main course or a fun appetizer, these patties are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, with a delightful blend of spices and fresh herbs. Let’s dive in and explore how to make these irresistible patties!

The Upside of Spicy Panko Chickpea Patties

These Spicy Panko Chickpea Patties are not only delicious, but they also pack a nutritional punch. Chickpeas are an excellent source of protein and fiber, making them a great foundation for a healthy meal. The combination of spices adds a flavor profile that can elevate any meal. Whether you’re serving them as a quick lunch, a snack, or a side dish, they’re sure to be a hit at your table.

The Essentials

• 3 1/2 cups cooked or canned chickpeas (garbanzo beans), drained
• 1/3 cup chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley
• 2 large eggs
• 1 1/2 teaspoons cumin
• 1 teaspoon minced fresh garlic or 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 3/4 teaspoon salt (adjust according to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust based on spice tolerance)
• 1 1/2 cups panko breadcrumbs
• Grapeseed oil for frying

Hardware & Gadgets

• Mixing Bowl: For combining all your ingredients.
• Fork or Potato Masher: To mash the chickpeas until chunky.
• Skillet: A non-stick skillet works best for frying the patties.
• Spatula: For flipping the patties without breaking them.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: To ensure accuracy in your recipe.

Cook Spicy Panko Chickpea Patties Like This

Step 1: Prepare the Chickpeas

Start by rinsing and draining your canned chickpeas if you’re using them. If you’re cooking your chickpeas from dry, make sure they are fully cooked and tender. In a large mixing bowl, use a fork or a potato masher to mash the chickpeas until they are mostly smooth but still have some chunky bits for texture.

Step 2: Mix in the Ingredients

To the mashed chickpeas, add the chopped parsley, eggs, cumin, minced garlic (or garlic powder), salt, and cayenne pepper. Mix everything together until well combined. This mixture should be thick enough to shape into patties; if it feels too wet, add a little more panko breadcrumbs until you reach the right consistency.

Step 3: Form the Patties

Using your hands, shape the chickpea mixture into patties about 2-3 inches in diameter and about 1/2 inch thick. Place the formed patties on a plate or a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Step 4: Coat with Panko

Spread the panko breadcrumbs on a plate. Gently press each patty into the breadcrumbs, coating both sides evenly. This will create a crispy outer layer when fried.

Step 5: Fry the Patties

In a large skillet, heat about 1/4 inch of grapeseed oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot (you can test it by dropping in a small piece of bread; it should sizzle), carefully add the patties to the skillet. Fry in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.

Step 6: Drain and Serve

Once the patties are cooked, transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce or on a bed of greens for a fresh meal.

Dairy-Free/Gluten-Free Swaps

• For a dairy-free version, ensure that the panko breadcrumbs are dairy-free, as some brands may contain milk products.
• If you need a gluten-free option, use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers.
• For an egg-free patty, consider using flaxseed meal mixed with water as an egg substitute (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 2.5 tablespoons water = 1 egg).

Insider Tips

• Feel free to customize the spice level by adjusting the cayenne pepper or adding other spices like paprika or smoked paprika for a different flavor profile.
• If you prefer baking to frying, you can bake the patties at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through for even browning.
• Make sure your oil is hot enough before adding the patties, as this will help them crisp up nicely and prevent them from absorbing too much oil.

Prep Ahead & Store

You can prep these Spicy Panko Chickpea Patties ahead of time. Form the patties and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before frying. They can also be frozen uncooked. Just layer them between sheets of parchment paper in an airtight container and freeze. When you’re ready to eat, fry them from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time.

Your Questions, Answered

Can I use dried chickpeas instead of canned?

Absolutely! If using dried chickpeas, be sure to soak them overnight and cook them until tender before mashing.

How can I make these patties more flavorful?

Experiment with different herbs and spices! Adding ingredients like cilantro, onion powder, or even a splash of lemon juice can enhance the flavor profile.

What can I serve with these chickpea patties?

These patties pair beautifully with a variety of sides, such as a fresh salad, tzatziki sauce, or even in a pita with fresh vegetables.

How do I know when the patties are done cooking?

The patties are done when they are golden brown on the outside and heated through. You can also check the internal temperature; it should reach 165°F (74°C).

Healthy-ish Favorites

• Quinoa and Black Bean Salad
• Lentil Soup with Spinach
• Zucchini Noodles with Avocado Sauce
• Sweet Potato and Chickpea Curry

Save & Share

If you enjoyed this recipe for Spicy Panko Chickpea Patties, don’t forget to share it with friends and family! These patties are perfect for gatherings, meal prep, or as a fun addition to your weekly dinner rotation. Whether you’re serving them up for a casual weeknight dinner or adding them to a festive spread, they’re sure to impress. Happy cooking, and enjoy the deliciousness!