Introduction
Chickpea and egg meatballs are a delightful and nutritious dish that has become a secret favorite in many famous restaurants. This vegetarian recipe is not only rich in flavor but also packed with protein and other essential nutrients. Let’s explore the step-by-step instructions to make these delicious meatballs that will surely impress your family and friends.
Ingredients
- 400 grams (14 ounces) of canned boiled chickpeas
- 30 grams (1 ounce) of wheat flour
- 2 eggs
- 1 onion, chopped
- A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil
- 30 grams (1 ounce) of breadcrumbs
- Chopped parsley to taste
- Chilli pepper to taste (optional)
- Black pepper to taste
- Salt to taste
Preparation
1. Prepare the Chickpeas:
- Drain and Rinse: Open the can of chickpeas, drain them in a colander, and rinse them thoroughly with cold water.
- Blend with Eggs: Place the drained chickpeas in a bowl. Add the eggs and use an immersion blender to blend until you achieve a smooth and compact mixture.
2. Mix the Ingredients:
- Add Onion: Mix the blended chickpea mixture with a spatula, then add the chopped onion and mix thoroughly.
- Season: Add a little chili pepper (if using), black pepper, and salt. Stir well to combine.
- Incorporate Parsley and Flour: Add the chopped parsley and wheat flour to the mixture. Mix briefly with a spatula, then knead the mixture with your hands until well combined.
3. Shape the Meatballs:
- Form Meatballs: Take a piece of dough at a time and shape it into meatballs.
- Coat with Breadcrumbs: Roll each meatball in breadcrumbs to coat them evenly.
- Prepare for Baking: Place the coated meatballs in an oiled pan. Brush the tops with a little extra virgin olive oil to help them crisp up in the oven.
4. Cook the Meatballs:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 180°C (356°F).
- Bake: Cook the meatballs in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside.
5. Serve:
- Arrange and Serve: Once cooked, arrange the meatballs on a plate and serve hot. Enjoy these delicious chickpea and egg meatballs as a main dish or a delightful appetizer.
Nutrition Information
- Calories: Approximately 180 calories per serving (2-3 meatballs)
- Carbohydrates: 20 grams
- Proteins: 8 grams
- Fats: 8 grams
- Fiber: 5 grams
- Vitamins: Rich in Vitamin A from eggs and Vitamin C from parsley
Tips
- Chickpeas: Make sure to drain and rinse the chickpeas thoroughly to remove excess sodium and achieve a smoother texture.
- Herbs: Feel free to experiment with different herbs like cilantro or basil to add a unique flavor to the meatballs.
- Spices: Adjust the amount of chili pepper and black pepper according to your taste preferences.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve these meatballs with a side of fresh salad or a dipping sauce like tzatziki or hummus for a complete meal.
These chickpea and egg meatballs are a versatile and nutritious dish that can easily become a staple in your kitchen. Perfect for any occasion, they offer a healthy and delicious alternative to traditional meat-based recipes. Enjoy making and sharing this secret restaurant favorite with your loved ones!