In recent years, the demand for gluten-free and grain-free products has skyrocketed, driven by dietary preferences, allergies, and health-conscious consumers. Among the many alternatives available, chickpea flour has emerged as a versatile and nutritious option. Today, we’ll explore a simple yet delicious recipe for gluten-free, grain-free crackers made with chickpea flour. These crackers are not only easy to make but also packed with protein, fiber, and flavor.
Chickpea flour, also known as gram flour or besan, is a staple in many cuisines, particularly in Indian, Middle Eastern, and Mediterranean cooking. It’s made from ground chickpeas and is naturally gluten-free and grain-free. Here are some reasons why chickpea flour is an excellent choice for your crackers:
Before we dive into the recipe, let’s gather the ingredients. This recipe is designed to be simple and accessible, with most items likely already in your pantry.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Chickpea Flour | 1 cup |
| Olive Oil | 2 tablespoons |
| Water | 1/4 cup |
| Salt | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Garlic Powder | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Dried Herbs (optional) | 1 teaspoon |
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your crackers bake evenly and achieve the perfect crispiness.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the chickpea flour, salt, garlic powder, and any dried herbs you’re using. Stir well to ensure the ingredients are evenly distributed.
Add the olive oil and water to the dry ingredients. Mix until a dough forms. The dough should be firm but pliable. If it’s too dry, add a little more water, one teaspoon at a time.
Place the dough between two sheets of parchment paper and roll it out as thinly as possible. The thinner the dough, the crispier the crackers will be. Aim for a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
Remove the top sheet of parchment paper and use a pizza cutter or knife to cut the dough into your desired cracker shapes. Squares or rectangles work well, but feel free to get creative!
Transfer the parchment paper with the cut dough onto a baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the crackers are golden brown and crisp. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
Allow the crackers to cool completely on the baking sheet. Once cooled, they’re ready to serve! Store any leftovers in an airtight container to maintain their crispiness.
Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional content per serving (approximately 10 crackers):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 120 kcal |
| Protein | 5 g |
| Carbohydrates | 15 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Fat | 5 g |
While chickpea flour is the star of this recipe, you can experiment with other gluten-free flours like almond flour or coconut flour. However, the texture and flavor may vary.
When stored in an airtight container, these crackers can last up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to a month.
Absolutely! Feel free to customize the seasoning to your taste. Paprika, cumin, or even a sprinkle of nutritional yeast can add a unique twist.
While chickpea flour is low in carbs compared to wheat flour, it’s not typically considered keto-friendly. For a keto version, consider using almond flour or coconut flour instead.
Gluten-free, grain-free crackers made with chickpea flour are a delicious and healthy alternative to traditional crackers. They’re easy to make, customizable, and packed with nutrients. Whether you’re following a specific diet or simply looking for a wholesome snack, these crackers are sure to satisfy. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the crisp, flavorful results!
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