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Crispy Baked Chickpea and Rice Balls for Healthy Snacking

Healthy Baked Chickpea and Rice Balls are a nutritious and customizable snack packed with flavor and texture.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Chilling Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 25 minutes
Servings: 4 balls
Course: Appetizers
Cuisine: American
Calories: 120
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Base Mixture
  • 1 can Chickpeas rinsed and dried
  • 2 cups Cooked Rice leftover short-grain rice
  • 2 cloves Garlic minced
  • 1 teaspoon Onion Powder
For the Crispy Coating
  • 1 cup Panko Breadcrumbs gluten-free optional
  • 1 teaspoon Salt
  • 1 teaspoon Black Pepper
For Freshness
  • 1/4 cup Parsley chopped
  • 1/4 cup Chives chopped
For Flavor Boost
  • 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika
For Binding
  • 1 large Egg whisked

Equipment

  • oven
  • mixing bowl
  • baking sheet
  • parchment paper

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions
  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Rinse and dry the chickpeas, then mash them in a mixing bowl until mostly broken down.
  3. Mix in the cooked rice, half of the panko breadcrumbs, herbs, garlic, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
  4. In a small bowl, whisk the egg and add it to the chickpea mixture, mixing until evenly incorporated.
  5. Cover the mixture and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
  6. Form balls about 1.5 inches in diameter, packing the mixture tightly.
  7. Roll each ball in the remaining panko breadcrumbs.
  8. Lightly brush each ball with olive oil and bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway.
  9. Let cool slightly, then serve warm with a dipping sauce.

Notes

Ensure chickpeas are dried before mashing for best texture. Chilling the mixture is crucial for forming balls that hold shape while baking.