Chickpea Fries with Sage and Parmesan

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

Chickpea Fries with Sage and Parmesan
Photo: © John Kernick
Active Time:
30 mins
Total Time:
2 hrs 30 mins
Yield:
12

Ingredients

  • Coarse salt and freshly ground pepper

  • Canola oil, for frying

  • 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

  • 2 3/4 cups milk

  • 1 1/2 teaspoons unsalted butter

  • 1 cup chickpea flour, sifted if lumpy (see Note)

  • 2 tablespoons finely chopped sage

  • 1 small garlic clove, minced

Directions

  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.

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