Quick & Easy Chickpea Pancakes Recipe

Hi, I’m Clara, and I’m so excited to share one of my go-to recipes for busy families: savory chickpea pancakes! These aren’t your average pancakes; they’re quick, gluten-free, packed with protein, and incredibly versatile. If you are looking for simple ways to add iron rich meals into your weekly menu, these chickpea pancakes are for you! Get ready to whip up a batch of these delicious delights in under 30 minutes!

Table of contents

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love These Chickpea Pancakes

• Quick to make: Perfect for those hectic mornings or quick dinners.
• Packed with veggies: A great way to sneak in extra nutrients.
• Customizable with toppings: Endless possibilities to suit everyone’s taste.
• Perfect for a light meal or snack: Satisfying and healthy any time of day.

What are Chickpea Pancakes?

Chickpea pancakes are a savory alternative to traditional pancakes, made from chickpea flour, also known as garbanzo bean flour or besan. I love that they’re naturally gluten-free and packed with protein and fiber. While the exact origin is debated, similar flatbreads and pancakes made from chickpea flour have been enjoyed in various cultures for centuries. They’re a fantastic way to enjoy a healthy and delicious meal using simple ingredients.

Ingredients for Chickpea Pancakes

Here’s everything you’ll need to make these scrumptious chickpea pancakes. I always recommend using the freshest, highest-quality ingredients you can find for the best flavor. You can find chickpea flour in most grocery stores, usually in the gluten-free or international foods section, or you can easily order it online.

• 1 green onion, finely chopped (about 1/4 cup)
• 1/4 cup finely chopped red pepper
• 1/2 cup chickpea flour (also known as garbanzo flour or besan)
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon fine grain sea salt
• 1/8 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
• pinch red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1/2 cup + 2 tablespoons water
• For serving: salsa, avocado, hummus, cashew cream (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create the perfect chickpea pancakes, even if you’re new to gluten-free cooking. Let’s get started!

Step 1:

Prepare the vegetables and set aside. I like to chop my green onion and red pepper into small, even pieces to ensure they distribute evenly in the batter. Preheat a 10-inch skillet over medium heat.

(Photo of chopped vegetables and skillet preheating)

Step 2:

In a small bowl, whisk together the chickpea flour, garlic powder, salt, pepper, baking powder, and optional red pepper flakes. This ensures that all the dry ingredients are evenly combined before adding the wet ingredients.

Step 3:

Add the water and whisk well until no clumps remain. I like to whisk it for a good 15 seconds to create lots of air bubbles in the batter, this helps make the pancake light and fluffy.

Step 4:

Stir in the chopped vegetables. Make sure the veggies are well distributed throughout the batter.

Step 5:

When the skillet is pre-heated (a drop of water should sizzle on the pan), spray it liberally with olive oil or other non stick cooking spray. This will prevent the pancake from sticking and make it easier to flip.

Step 6:

Pour on all of the batter (if making 1 large pancake) and quickly spread it out all over the pan. Cook for about 5-6 minutes on one side, the timing will depend on how hot your pan is. You’ll know it’s ready to flip when you can easily slide a pancake flipper/spatula under the pancake and it’s firm enough not to break when flipping.

Step 7:

Flip pancake carefully and cook for another 5 minutes, until lightly golden. Be sure to cook for enough time as this pancake takes much longer to cook compared to regular pancakes.

Step 8:

Serve on a large plate and top with your desired toppings. Leftovers can be wrapped up and placed in the fridge. Reheat on a skillet until warmed throughout.

Pro Tips for Perfect Chickpea Pancakes

• Let the batter rest: Allow the batter to rest for 5-10 minutes before cooking. This helps the chickpea flour absorb the water fully, resulting in a better texture.
• Use a non-stick pan: A good quality non-stick pan is essential for preventing the pancake from sticking and making it easier to flip.
• Maintain medium heat: Cooking over medium heat ensures the pancake cooks evenly without burning.
• Use a thin spatula: A thin, flexible spatula will make flipping the pancake much easier and prevent it from breaking.

Ingredient Spotlight: Chickpea Flour

Chickpea flour, also known as garbanzo bean flour or besan, comes in both fine and coarse textures. I usually prefer fine chickpea flour for pancakes, as it results in a smoother batter. You can find chickpea flour in most grocery stores, usually in the gluten-free or international foods section. Look for a brand with a good reputation and check the expiration date to ensure freshness.

Taming the “Beany” Flavor in Chickpea Pancakes

Some people find that chickpea flour can have a slightly “beany” flavor. I find that using high-quality chickpea flour helps minimize this. You can also mask the flavor by adding spices like cumin, coriander, or smoked paprika to the batter.

Serving Suggestions and Topping Ideas

Here are some of my favorite serving suggestions and topping ideas for chickpea pancakes:

Savory:

• Salsa
• Avocado
• Hummus
• Cashew cream
• Roasted vegetables
• A sprinkle of feta cheese

Sweet:

• A drizzle of maple syrup
• Fresh berries
• A dollop of yogurt
• A sprinkle of cinnamon

Recipe Variations

Here are a few fun variations to try:

Variation	Description	Key Ingredients
Mediterranean	Inspired by Mediterranean flavors	Feta cheese, olives, sun-dried tomatoes, oregano
Indian	Infused with Indian spices	Curry powder, cilantro, chili flakes
Sweet with Berries	A touch of sweetness with your favorite berries	Blueberries, raspberries, a drizzle of maple syrup
Chocolate Chip	For chocolate lovers	Mini chocolate chips

Make-Ahead Instructions

Yes, you can definitely make the batter ahead of time! I recommend storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Give it a good whisk before using, as it may separate slightly.

Storing and Reheating Leftover Chickpea Pancakes

Leftover chickpea pancakes can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or in the freezer for up to 2 months. To reheat, simply warm them in a skillet over medium heat until heated through. You can also microwave them, but they may become a bit softer.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Not preheating the pan: Make sure your skillet is properly preheated before adding the batter.
• Using too high heat: Cooking over high heat can cause the pancake to burn on the outside while remaining undercooked on the inside.
• Flipping too early: Be patient and wait until the pancake is firm enough to flip easily.

Troubleshooting Chickpea Pancakes

• Pancakes are too thick: Add a tablespoon or two of water to thin out the batter.
• Pancakes are too thin: Add a tablespoon of chickpea flour to thicken the batter.
• Pancakes are sticking to the pan: Make sure you’re using a non-stick pan and that it’s properly greased.

Addressing Specific Dietary Needs

These chickpea pancakes are naturally gluten-free and vegan, making them a great option for many dietary needs. To adapt the recipe for other restrictions, you can use a low-sodium salt alternative, reduce the amount of oil used, or substitute the water with a plant-based milk alternative. Always check the labels of your ingredients to ensure they meet your specific dietary requirements.

Are Chickpea Pancakes Healthy?

Absolutely! Chickpea pancakes are packed with nutritional benefits. They’re a great source of protein, fiber, and iron. Chickpeas are also low in fat and calories, making these pancakes a healthy and satisfying meal option.

What is Chickpea Flour Good For?

Chickpea flour is incredibly versatile and can be used in a variety of dishes beyond pancakes. It’s commonly used to make socca, a thin, unleavened flatbread. I love using chickpea flour as a thickening agent in soups and stews, and it’s also great for making fritters and other savory lentil snacks.

Frequently Asked Questions

Equipment suggestions

To make these chickpea pancakes, I recommend using a good quality non-stick pan to prevent sticking. A blender can be helpful for making a smooth batter, and a good set of whisks will ensure all the ingredients are properly combined.

Nutritional Information (per serving):

• Calories: 200
• Protein: 10g
• Fat: 5g
• Carbohydrates: 30g

Star Rating: ★★★★★

Conclusion

I hope you enjoy this simple and nutritious chickpea pancake recipe as much as I do! It’s a fantastic way to add more protein and veggies to your diet, and it’s perfect for busy families. Leave a comment below to share your results, ask questions, or let me know what toppings you used! I can’t wait to hear from you. Remember, cooking should be a joy, not a chore.