Chickpea Milanese
Hey friends! Today, I'm super excited to share with you this scrumptious Chickpea Milanese. This dish takes a classic Italian favorite and gives it a fantastic twist. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or impressing guests, this vegan rendition is not only hearty and flavorful but also packed with protein and nutrients. Whether you're a seasoned cook or just starting out, this recipe is straightforward and oh-so-delicious!
Ingredients
- 1 can 15 oz of chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs use gluten-free if needed
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour or chickpea flour for a boost!
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 egg or aquafaba for a vegan substitute about 3 tablespoons
- For frying:
- Olive oil or your choice of oil
- Lemon wedges for serving
- Optional Fresh herbs for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Chickpeas: First, place the drained chickpeas in a bowl. Using a fork or potato masher, mash them gently until they’re mostly broken down but still have some texture. This is where the creaminess comes from—don’t overdo it!
- Combine the Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, mix the breadcrumbs, flour, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. This mix is your magic coating for that crispy crunch!
- The Binding: Add the egg or aquafaba into the chickpeas and mix it until it’s all well combined. This will help our breadcrumbs stick like glue!
- Shape the Patties: Now, form the chickpea mixture into patties or cutlets – it’s all about your personal preference here. You can make them small or keep them larger like a burger. Aim for about 1/2 inch thick.
- Coat the Patties: Take each patty and dip it into the breadcrumb mixture, making sure to coat each side generously. This is what gives it that gorgeous, crunchy exterior!
- Heat the Oil: In a large skillet, heat about 1/4 inch of oil over medium heat. You can test if it's ready by dropping in a breadcrumb; if it sizzles, you’re good to go!
- Fry It Up: Carefully place the patties into the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. We want them nice and golden brown! Fry for about 4-5 minutes on each side until evenly golden and crispy. Yum!
- Drain and Serve: Once your patties are done frying, transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. Squeeze some lemon juice over the top and sprinkle with fresh herbs if you fancy!