Herbed Chickpea Pancakes

Herbed Chickpea Pancakes are a delightful fusion of traditional Indian cuisine and contemporary culinary innovation. Drawing inspiration from the Gujarati dish “pudla,” these savory pancakes are crafted from chickpea flour and infused with a medley of fresh herbs and spices. Accompanied by roasted vegetables and a zesty lemon tahini sauce, they offer a nutritious and flavorful meal suitable for any time of the day.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Nutrient-Rich: Packed with plant-based protein and fiber from chickpea flour, these pancakes are both satisfying and healthful.
• Gluten-Free & Vegan: Ideal for those with dietary restrictions, offering a wholesome alternative without compromising on taste.
• Versatile: Perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, and easily customizable with various herbs and vegetables.
• Quick & Easy: Requires minimal preparation and cooking time, making it suitable for busy schedules.
• Flavorful: The combination of fresh herbs, spices, and tangy lemon tahini sauce creates a harmonious and delectable flavor profile.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Zesty Lemon Tahini Sauce

• ¼ cup tahini
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1½ teaspoons agave nectar
• Sea salt, to taste
• ¼ cup cold water

Roasted Vegetables

• ½ lb asparagus, trimmed
• 6–7 radishes, quartered
• 2 teaspoons avocado oil
• 1 teaspoon za’atar spice blend
• Sea salt and ground black pepper, to taste

Herbed Chickpea Pancakes

• ⅔ cup chickpea flour
• ⅓ cup flat-leaf parsley, finely chopped
• ¼ cup fresh dill, finely chopped
• 1 green onion, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1 teaspoon nutritional yeast
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon fine sea salt
• Ground black pepper, to taste
• ⅔ cup water
• Oil, for cooking

Directions

1. Prepare the Lemon Tahini Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together tahini, lemon zest, lemon juice, agave nectar, and salt. Gradually add cold water while whisking until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Refrigerate until ready to use.
2. Roast the Vegetables: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place asparagus and radishes on the sheet, drizzle with avocado oil, and sprinkle with za’atar, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat and arrange in a single layer. Roast for 20 minutes, or until tender and slightly browned.
3. Prepare the Pancake Batter: In a medium bowl, whisk together chickpea flour, parsley, dill, green onion, turmeric, nutritional yeast, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Gradually add water, whisking until the batter is smooth with minimal lumps.
4. Cook the Pancakes: Heat a sauté pan over medium heat and lightly oil it. Pour half of the batter into the pan, spreading it evenly. Cook until bubbles form and the underside is golden, about 1½ minutes. Flip and cook for another minute, or until firm. Repeat with the remaining batter.
5. Assemble and Serve: Place the pancakes on plates, top with roasted vegetables, and drizzle with the lemon tahini sauce. Serve warm.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 2
• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

Variations

• Herb Substitutions: Replace parsley and dill with cilantro, basil, or mint for a different flavor profile.
• Additional Vegetables: Incorporate sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach into the batter or as toppings.
• Cheese Addition: Add crumbled feta or goat cheese to the batter for a richer taste.
• Spice Adjustments: Enhance the heat by adding chili flakes or finely chopped jalapeños to the batter.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover pancakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, or in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5–10 minutes. Avoid microwaving to maintain texture.
• Freezing: Freeze cooked pancakes between layers of parchment paper in a sealed container for up to 1 month. Reheat from frozen in the oven.

FAQs

What is chickpea flour?

Chickpea flour, also known as gram flour or besan, is a gluten-free flour made from ground chickpeas. It’s commonly used in Indian, Middle Eastern, and Mediterranean cuisines.

Can I make the batter ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance. Store it in the refrigerator and stir well before using. You may need to add a little water to adjust the consistency.

Are these pancakes suitable for a gluten-free diet?

Absolutely. Chickpea flour is naturally gluten-free, making these pancakes suitable for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.

Can I use other flours instead of chickpea flour?

Chickpea flour is essential for the unique texture and flavor of these pancakes. Substituting with other flours may alter the results significantly.

What can I serve with these pancakes?

They pair well with a variety of toppings such as roasted vegetables, fresh salads, yogurt-based sauces, or even poached eggs for added protein.

How do I prevent the pancakes from sticking to the pan?

Ensure your pan is well-heated and lightly oiled before adding the batter. Using a non-stick skillet can also help prevent sticking.

Can I freeze the cooked pancakes?

Yes, cooked pancakes can be frozen. Place parchment paper between each pancake and store them in a sealed container. Reheat in the oven when ready to eat.

Is the lemon tahini sauce necessary?

While optional, the lemon tahini sauce adds a tangy and creamy element that complements the savory pancakes and roasted vegetables beautifully.

Can I add other spices to the batter?

Certainly. Feel free to experiment with spices like cumin, coriander, or smoked paprika to suit your taste preferences.

Are these pancakes kid-friendly?

Yes, their mild flavor and soft texture make them appealing to children. You can also customize the herbs and spices to cater to younger palates.

Conclusion

Herbed Chickpea Pancakes offer a delightful and nutritious meal option that is both versatile and easy to prepare. Whether you’re seeking a gluten-free, vegan dish or simply looking to try something new, these pancakes are sure to satisfy. Enjoy them with your favorite toppings and sauces for a wholesome dining experience.

Print