Chickpea Bacon Recipe

Chickpeas: These legumes are the base of the recipe, providing a hearty texture and protein.

Soy sauce: Adds a salty, umami flavor that enhances the overall taste.

Maple syrup: Provides a subtle sweetness that balances the savory and smoky flavors.

Liquid smoke: Gives the chickpeas their signature smoky taste, mimicking traditional bacon.

Paprika: Adds a mild spiciness and enhances the color of the chickpeas.

Garlic powder: Infuses the chickpeas with a rich, aromatic flavor.

Olive oil: Helps to coat the chickpeas evenly and ensures they crisp up nicely in the oven.

To achieve the perfect texture for your chickpea bacon, make sure to thoroughly dry the chickpeas after rinsing. Excess moisture can prevent them from getting crispy. You can use a clean kitchen towel or paper towels to pat them dry before tossing them in the marinade.

• chickpeas - Substitute with white beans: White beans have a similar texture and can absorb flavors well, making them a good alternative for creating a smoky, savory taste.

• soy sauce - Substitute with tamari: Tamari is a gluten-free alternative to soy sauce and provides a similar umami flavor.

• maple syrup - Substitute with agave nectar: Agave nectar is a vegan sweetener that can mimic the sweetness of maple syrup.

• liquid smoke - Substitute with smoked paprika: Smoked paprika can provide a smoky flavor without the need for liquid smoke.

• paprika - Substitute with chili powder: Chili powder can add a bit of heat along with the smoky flavor, making it a good alternative to paprika.

• garlic powder - Substitute with onion powder: Onion powder can provide a similar depth of flavor if garlic powder is unavailable.

• olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a similar fat content and can be used in the same way as olive oil for cooking and flavor.

• Allow the chickpea bacon to cool completely after baking. This helps to maintain its crispiness and prevents condensation from forming when stored.

• Transfer the cooled chickpea bacon into an airtight container. Mason jars or resealable plastic bags work well for this purpose.

• Store the container in a cool, dry place if you plan to consume the chickpea bacon within 2-3 days. For longer storage, place the container in the refrigerator, where it will keep for up to a week.

• To freeze, spread the cooled chickpea bacon on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Place the sheet in the freezer for about an hour, or until the chickpeas are frozen solid. This prevents them from sticking together.

• Once frozen, transfer the chickpea bacon to a resealable freezer bag or airtight container. Label the container with the date to keep track of its freshness.

• When ready to use, remove the desired amount of chickpea bacon from the freezer and let it thaw at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes. For a quicker option, you can reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, or until warmed through and crispy.

• Avoid microwaving the chickpea bacon as it can become soggy. Reheating in the oven or on a stovetop skillet is recommended to retain its texture and flavor.

• If you notice any changes in smell, texture, or taste, it’s best to discard the chickpea bacon to ensure food safety.

• Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the leftover chickpea bacon on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 5-7 minutes, or until they are heated through and crispy again. This method helps maintain the crunchiness of the chickpeas.

• Stovetop Method: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add the chickpea bacon and cook for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are warmed through and slightly crispy. This method is quick and keeps the flavors intact.

• Microwave Method: Place the chickpea bacon on a microwave-safe plate in a single layer. Microwave on high for 30-60 seconds, checking halfway through to ensure they don’t get too soft. This method is the fastest but may not retain the crispiness as well as the oven or stovetop methods.

• Air Fryer Method: Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the chickpea bacon in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Air fry for 3-5 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until they are heated and crispy. This method is great for achieving a crunchy texture quickly.

• Oven: Used to bake the chickpeas at the specified temperature to achieve a crispy texture.

• Baking sheet: Provides a flat surface for spreading out the chickpeas in a single layer for even baking.

• Parchment paper: Prevents the chickpeas from sticking to the baking sheet and makes for easy cleanup.

• Mixing bowl: Used to combine the chickpeas with the marinade ingredients, ensuring they are evenly coated.

• Measuring spoons: Ensures accurate measurement of the soy sauce, maple syrup, liquid smoke, paprika, garlic powder, and olive oil.

• Spoon: Used to stir the chickpeas halfway through baking to ensure even crispiness.

• Colander: Used to drain and rinse the chickpeas before mixing them with the marinade.

Prepare ingredients ahead: Drain and rinse chickpeas the night before to save time.

Use pre-mixed spices: Combine paprika, garlic powder, and other spices in advance.

Line baking sheet: Always have parchment paper ready to avoid last-minute scrambling.

Batch cooking: Make a larger batch of chickpea bacon and store for future use.

Quick marinade: Mix soy sauce, maple syrup, and liquid smoke in a jar for easy access.