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Chickpea Fries with Sage and Parmesan
© John Kernick

Chickpea Fries with Sage and Parmesan

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  • ACTIVE: 30 MIN
  • TOTAL TIME: 2 HRS 30 MIN
  • SERVINGS: 12
  • •MAKE-AHEAD
  • •VEGETARIAN

These crispy fried squares can be served alongside butternut squash soup or with cocktails.

  1. Coarse salt and freshly ground pepper
  2. Canola oil, for frying
  3. 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  4. 2 3/4 cups milk
  5. 1 1/2 teaspoons unsalted butter
  6. 1 cup chickpea flour, sifted if lumpy (see Note)
  7. 2 tablespoons finely chopped sage
  8. 1 small garlic clove, minced
  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.
Make Ahead The recipe can be prepared through Step 3; refrigerate overnight. Recrisp the fries in a 350° oven. Toss with the sage and Parmesan before serving. Notes Chickpea flour is available at Indian markets and health food stores.