There are several good things about winter—cosy weather, woolly sweaters, and the array of bright winter veggies that fills the market. One such great winter veggie is Green chickpeas or Chholia. Packed in small pocket pods, these flavourful balls of wholesome goodness are so versatile that they can be transformed into several delicious snacks and meal dishes.
Green chickpeas are a great source of natural plant nutrients, packed with various vitamins and minerals essential during winter. During winter, several local vegetable markets are painted green with the branches of chholia that are sold along with it. Making chholia is also nostalgic for many who remember picking the pods from shrubs with mom.
Today, this article will take one through the tastiest snacks made with chholia or Green Chickpeas that are a must-try during winter.
1) Roasted Green Chickpeas
Roasted Green Chickpeas are a go-to snack to relish the warmth and comfort during winter. Pair this with tea or as a side dish. Roasted chholia serves as a tantalising snack to enhance the flavour of every meal. Preparing this is super easy. Wash, rinse, and spread the unpeeled green chickpeas on a baking sheet. Sprinkle 1-2 tbsp water, add salt. Broil until brown, stirring occasionally for even roasting. This can also be roasted on an open pan.
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2) Green Chickpea Curry
Green Chickpea is a staple of every household during chilly winter. This dish makes the spirit of the season even more enjoyable. Soak green chickpeas overnight. Cook with salt, coconut, green chilli, garlic, ginger, and a little soda. Fry with jeera, onion, tomato, and spices, then add chana, water, and garam masala. Garnish with coriander.
3) Green Chickpea Falafel
Green Chickpea Falafel is a perfect tea-time snack to sate a little hunger. Blend chickpeas, parsley, cilantro, lemon juice, garlic, cumin, turmeric, salt, and red pepper flakes. Add oats, shape into balls, refrigerate, then scoop and bake at 200°C until golden brown.
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4) Green Chickpea Kachori
Green Chickpea Kachori is a must-try snack that tastes even better during the season. Knead soft dough with flour, salt, and oil. Crush green chickpeas and make masala roast stuffing with spices. Divide dough, fill with stuffing, shape into discs, and deep-fry until golden. Serve hot with chutney.
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5) Green Chickpea Salad
A healthy salad can be easily made with green chickpeas, cottage cheese, diced tomatoes, spring onion, lemon juice, and seasonings. Mix boiled green chickpeas with all ingredients, toss it, and season. Serve it with the main course, or eat it as it is.
6) Green Chickpea Chaat
Soak green chickpea, pressure cook until done, then simmer in salted water. Mix with onions, tomatoes, green chillies, coriander, black salt, roasted cumin, chaat masala, red chilli, and lemon juice. Serve immediately.
7) Green Chickpea Hummus
Blanch 3 cups of green chickpeas. Blend with lemon juice, garlic, basil, coriander, sesame oil, salt, cumin, and water. Adjust salt, and add water for desired consistency. Consider adding a little lemon zest for a zing.
Do try this Green chickpea relishes at home and enjoy the delight of the nutritional veggies. Head to our website's main page for even more interesting recipes.