Chikuro (Crispy Chickpea Snack) – 40% Lighter

Chikuro is a beloved Indian roasted chickpea snack—addictive, crunchy, and spiced to perfection. Our Fat Switch version swaps deep-fried prep for air-roasting and cuts 40% of calories while keeping every bit of that irresistible crunch and bold masala flavor.

15m

Prep Time

35m

Cook Time

Servings

285

Calories

Protein

🛒 Ingredients

✓ 2 cans (800g) chickpeas, drained, rinsed, and patted completely dry
✓ 2 tsp extra virgin olive oil (for spray bottle)
✓ 1.5 tsp chaat masala
✓ 1 tsp amchur (dried mango powder)
✓ 1/2 tsp ground cumin
✓ 1/2 tsp red chili powder
✓ 1/4 tsp black salt (kala namak) or sea salt
✓ 1/4 tsp asafoetida (hing), optional but recommended

👨‍🍳 Instructions

1. Dry the Chickpeas Thoroughly: Drain canned chickpeas and rinse under cold water. Spread on a clean kitchen towel or paper towels and pat dry for 3–5 minutes. Moisture is the enemy of crispness; take your time here.

2. Prepare Spice Blend: In a small bowl, whisk together chaat masala, amchur, cumin, chili powder, black salt, and asafoetida. Set aside.

3. Oil and Season: Place dried chickpeas in a large bowl. Lightly spray with olive oil (about 2 tsp total, using a spray bottle or oil mister). Toss gently but thoroughly. Sprinkle spice blend over chickpeas and toss until evenly coated.

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4. Spread on Air-Fryer Basket: Spread seasoned chickpeas in a single layer on an air-fryer basket or tray, with minimal overlap. Work in batches if needed to avoid crowding.

5. Air-Roast at High Heat: Set air-fryer to 375°F (190°C). Roast for 30–35 minutes, shaking the basket or stirring every 10 minutes to ensure even cooking and browning. Chickpeas are ready when golden-brown, crispy, and no longer soft.

6. Cool Completely: Transfer roasted chickpeas to a clean plate or paper towel. Let cool for 10 minutes—they'll continue to crisp up as they cool. Do not store while warm, as steam will soften them.

7. Finish with Fresh Aromatics: Once cooled, toss with curry leaves, nigella seeds, and a pinch of black pepper for a final aromatic pop.

8. Store in Airtight Container: Transfer to an airtight glass or plastic container. Will stay crispy for up to 10 days at room temperature in a cool, dry place.

📊 Nutrition per Serving

Calories285 kcal

Protein8g

Carbohydrates38g

Fat9g

🏷️ Tags

#healthy Indian chickpea snack#air-fryer roasted chickpeas recipe#low-calorie spiced snack

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