I like giving my kids chic peas (also called garbanzo beans) for snacks as they are full of protein, and once you take away nuts (nut free schools) and cheese (dairy sensitivities like headaches, sinus issues and inhibiting immune systems esp in winter months) one can go bonkers trying to find protein dense school snacks to fuel kids and provide them with the energy required to maintain their focus all day.
Just 1 tbsp of chic peas has 2.6 g of protein (40g in a cup!). They are also a great source of fiber and potassium.
gluten free, dairy free, vegan, nut free, paleo
roasted chic peas
400º oven, 20 minutes
• chic pea can, 19 oz, drained, rinsed & patted dry
• 1/2 tsp paprika or 1/2 tsp chili powder &/or 1/4 tsp turmeric
• ground sea salt
I like to line a cookie sheet with paper towel. After rinsing and straining the chic peas, I pour them onto the paper towel and let them air dry or just roll them around and pat them on top with more paper towel. Place in a bowl and toss in spices (and oil if using).
Spread them back out on the cookie sheet (with no paper towel). Place in 400º oven for 20 minutes. Keep an eye on them, you don’t want them too crunchy…though actually, some prefer them that way. So experiment. If you want them crispier feel free to toss first with tbsp of oil of your choice (I would use avocado oil as it can withstand 400º without breaking down) &/or roast for an extra 10-15 minutes.
PLAY AROUND:
• Try using other spice combinations, with spices like ground cumin, ginger, turmeric, garlic and chili powder.
• You can also sauté the chic peas over medium heat for 10-15 minutes if you prefer.
NOTE: Loblaws health food section sells a brand called ‘The Good Bean’ that make roasted chic peas. They are the extra long roasted, crispy kind; just don’t eat too many at once – slight choking hazard as they end up feeling like powdered cardboard…haha, but trust me they are tasty! I buy only the salted and tend to stay away from all the flavours as they usually contain additives, too much sugar, etc… What’s fun about making your own is you have freedom to use your favourite spice. Enjoy.
