Chickpea Fries with Sage and Parmesan

• MAKE-AHEAD
• VEGETARIAN

Ingredients

1. 2 3/4 cups milk
2. 1 1/2 teaspoons unsalted butter
3. 1 small garlic clove, minced
4. 1 cup chickpea flour, sifted if lumpy (see Note)
5. Coarse salt and freshly ground pepper
6. Canola oil, for frying
7. 2 tablespoons finely chopped sage
8. 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

1. In a medium saucepan, combine the milk, butter and garlic and bring to a boil over high heat. Reduce the heat to moderately low and gradually whisk in the chickpea flour until smooth. Stir constantly with a rubber spatula until the mixture thickens, about 2 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
2. Scrape the mixture into a nonstick 9-by-13-inch rimmed baking sheet or baking dish that has been lightly sprayed with vegetable oil spray; spread into a 1/4-inch layer. Cover with parchment paper and refrigerate until firm, 2 to 3 hours.
3. Pour 1 inch of canola oil into a wide skillet and heat it to 350°, or until a piece of bread bubbles rapidly when added to the hot oil. Meanwhile, cut the chickpea mixture into 2-inch squares. Fry the squares in batches until golden brown, about 1 minute per side. Transfer the squares to a rack lined with paper towels to drain, then keep them warm in a low oven while you fry the rest.
4. In a bowl, mix the sage and Parmesan cheese. Toss the fries in the cheese and sage mixture until coated; serve warm.