Crispy Baked Indian Spiced Chickpeas - A Perfect Snack!

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F. This crucial step ensures that your oven will be the perfect temperature for baking the chickpeas, resulting in that sought-after crispy texture. It's a good time to line your baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to ensure non-stick bliss and easy cleanup.

Drain and rinse your chickpeas under cold running water. To ensure they bake evenly and achieve the perfect crunch, gently remove the skins by rubbing them between your fingers. Once skinned, lay out the chickpeas on a kitchen towel or paper towels, pat them dry. This step is pivotal—removing as much moisture as possible helps us achieve that crispy texture we are after.

In a medium bowl, mix the olive oil with cumin, coriander, paprika, and turmeric until well blended. Add the dried chickpeas to this bowl and toss until each one is evenly coated with this fragrant spice mix. This not only adds layers of flavor but also helps in achieving that golden exterior.

Spread the seasoned chickpeas in a single layer on your lined baking sheet. The trick here is to ensure they're not too crowded, allowing the hot air to circulate freely around each chickpea, ensuring they bake evenly. Place in the oven and bake for 40 minutes, stirring occasionally. This gradual baking is what contributes to their irresistible crunch. Pay attention to the oven towards the end as oven temperatures vary, and we're aiming for golden, not burnt.

After baking, while the chickpeas are still warm, toss them with the sea salt. This last addition enhances all the beautiful spices we've introduced and brings out the depth of flavors. Let them cool completely on the baking sheet—they will continue to crisp up as they cool. Enjoy these as a healthy, protein-rich snack on their own, or sprinkle over salads for a delightful crunch!