Chickpea Spinach Patties Recipe

Chickpeas: These legumes are high in protein and fiber, making them a great base for the patties.

Spinach: Fresh spinach adds a boost of vitamins and minerals, as well as a vibrant green color.

Onion: Chopped onion provides a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor.

Garlic: Minced garlic adds a pungent and aromatic quality to the patties.

Breadcrumbs: These help to bind the mixture together and give the patties structure.

Olive oil: Used for both the mixture and frying, it adds a rich flavor and helps to cook the patties to a golden brown.

Cumin: This spice adds a warm, earthy flavor that complements the chickpeas and spinach.

Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the patties.

Black pepper: Adds a bit of heat and complexity to the flavor profile.

When forming the patties, make sure your hands are slightly damp to prevent the mixture from sticking. This will help you shape the patties more easily and ensure they hold together well during cooking.

• chickpeas - Substitute with white beans: White beans have a similar texture and mild flavor, making them a good alternative to chickpeas in patties.

• fresh spinach - Substitute with kale: Kale provides a similar nutritional profile and can be used in the same quantity as spinach.

• chopped onion - Substitute with shallots: Shallots offer a milder and slightly sweeter flavor compared to onions, which can enhance the overall taste of the patties.

• minced garlic - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder can be used as a convenient alternative to fresh garlic, though it may slightly alter the texture.

• breadcrumbs - Substitute with oat flour: Oat flour can help bind the patties while keeping them gluten-free and adding a slight nutty flavor.

• olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a similar fat content and a high smoke point, making it a suitable replacement for olive oil.

• cumin - Substitute with coriander: Coriander has a warm, citrusy flavor that can complement the other ingredients in the patties.

• salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce can add a savory umami flavor while also providing the necessary saltiness.

• black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper has a slightly different flavor profile but can still provide the necessary heat and spice.

• Allow the chickpea spinach patties to cool completely after cooking. This prevents condensation, which can make them soggy.

• Place the cooled patties in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This step helps to freeze them individually without sticking together.

• Transfer the baking sheet to the freezer and let the patties freeze for about 1-2 hours, or until they are solid.

• Once the patties are frozen, remove them from the baking sheet and place them in a freezer-safe container or a resealable plastic bag. Make sure to label the container or bag with the date for easy reference.

• For added protection against freezer burn, you can wrap each patty individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before placing them in the container or bag.

• When you're ready to enjoy the patties, you can reheat them directly from the freezer. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and place the frozen patties on a baking sheet. Bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until they are heated through and crispy.

• Alternatively, you can reheat the patties in a frying pan. Heat a little olive oil over medium heat and cook the frozen patties for about 5-7 minutes on each side, until they are warmed through and golden brown.

• If you prefer to store the patties in the refrigerator, place them in an airtight container and consume within 3-4 days. Reheat them in the oven or frying pan as mentioned above.

• For a quick meal prep option, you can also store the uncooked patties in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking. Simply form the patties, cover them with plastic wrap, and keep them chilled until you're ready to cook.

• To keep the patties fresh and flavorful, avoid reheating them multiple times. Only reheat the amount you plan to eat to maintain their texture and taste.

• Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the chickpea spinach patties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover them with aluminum foil to prevent drying out. Heat for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. This method helps maintain their crispy exterior.

• Stovetop Method: Heat a non-stick frying pan over medium heat and add a small amount of olive oil. Place the patties in the pan and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are heated through and have regained their golden brown crust. This method is quick and keeps the patties crispy.

• Microwave Method: Place the patties on a microwave-safe plate. Cover them with a damp paper towel to keep them moist. Microwave on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure they are heating evenly. This method is the fastest but may result in a softer texture.

• Air Fryer Method: Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the chickpea spinach patties in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Heat for about 5-7 minutes, flipping halfway through. This method is great for retaining the crispy texture without additional oil.

• Toaster Oven Method: Preheat your toaster oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the patties on the toaster oven tray and cover with foil. Heat for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through. This method is convenient and effective for small batches.

• Food processor: This is essential for combining the chickpeas, spinach, onion, garlic, breadcrumbs, olive oil, cumin, salt, and black pepper into a well-mixed but slightly chunky mixture.

• Frying pan: You'll need this to cook the patties until they are golden brown on each side.

• Spatula: Useful for flipping the patties in the frying pan to ensure they cook evenly on both sides.

• Measuring spoons: These will help you accurately measure the cumin, salt, and black pepper.

• Measuring cups: Necessary for measuring the fresh spinach and breadcrumbs.

• Knife: You'll need this to chop the onion and mince the garlic.

• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping the onion and mincing the garlic.

• Can opener: Required to open the can of chickpeas.

• Mixing bowl: Handy for holding the chickpeas after draining and rinsing them before they go into the food processor.

• Spoon: Useful for scooping the mixture out of the food processor and forming it into patties.

• Plate: A place to set the formed patties before cooking them in the frying pan.

Use a food processor: Quickly combine chickpeas, spinach, and other ingredients by pulsing them in a food processor.

Pre-chop ingredients: Chop the onion and garlic in advance to save time during preparation.

Make extra patties: Double the recipe and freeze extra patties for a quick meal later.

Use pre-washed spinach: Save time by using pre-washed spinach instead of washing and drying it yourself.

Cook in batches: If your pan is small, cook the patties in batches to ensure even cooking and save time.