Looking for a snack that’s both delicious and nutritious? Look no further than these chocolate chickpeas! Imagine crunchy roasted chickpeas coated in rich, dark chocolate and sprinkled with warm cinnamon and nutmeg. It’s the perfect combination of sweet and savoury flavours, with a satisfying texture that will keep you coming back for more. Whether you’re looking for a midday pick-me-up or a post-workout snack, these chocolate chickpeas are the perfect treat. So grab a bar (or two), and get ready to indulge in a snack that’s both healthy and delicious!
Looking for a healthy and delicious snack that satisfies your sweet tooth? Look no further than this chocolate chickpea bark recipe! Packed with protein and fibre from chickpeas, and rich in antioxidants from dark chocolate, this recipe is not only delicious but also nutritious! With a touch of warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, this bark is a perfect treat for any time of the day. Easy to make and customisable to your taste, this chocolate chickpea bark is sure to become your new go-to snack. So, let’s get going and make some food!
Are Dark Chocolate Chickpeas Good For You?
Yes! Dark chocolate chickpeas can be a healthy snack option in moderation. Chickpeas are a good source of protein, fibre, and essential minerals, such as iron and magnesium. Additionally, dark chocolate has antioxidants that can provide health benefits, including reducing inflammation and improving heart health. However, it’s important to note that dark chocolate chickpeas are still a treat and should be consumed in moderation as they can also be high in calories and sugar.
Are Chickpea Snacks Healthy?
Chickpea snacks can be a healthy option, especially when compared to traditional snack foods like potato chips or candy. Chickpeas are a good source of protein, fibre, and essential minerals, which can help keep you full and satisfied. Roasted chickpeas, for example, are a popular snack that can be flavoured with various spices, making them a tasty and healthy alternative to other snack options.
Is There Anything Unhealthy About Chickpeas?
While chickpeas are generally considered a healthy food, it’s important to note that they are high in carbohydrates and calories. Consuming large amounts of chickpeas regularly can lead to weight gain if not balanced with other healthy foods and an active lifestyle. Additionally, some people may experience digestive discomfort when consuming large amounts of chickpeas, particularly if they are not properly cooked or prepared.
Are Canned Chickpeas Still Healthy?
Canned chickpeas can be a healthy and convenient option, as they are a good source of protein, fiber, and essential minerals. However, it’s important to choose low-sodium options or rinse the chickpeas before consuming to reduce the sodium content. Some canned chickpeas may also contain added preservatives or other ingredients, so it’s important to read the label and choose options with minimal added ingredients.
Why Do Bodybuilders Eat Chickpeas?
Bodybuilders often eat chickpeas as a source of plant-based protein, as they are a good source of essential amino acids needed for muscle growth and repair. Chickpeas are also a good source of carbohydrates, which can provide energy for workouts. Additionally, chickpeas are a nutrient-dense food that can help support overall health and wellness.
Are Chickpeas a Superfood?
Chickpeas are often referred to as a superfood due to their nutrient-dense profile. They are a good source of protein, fibre, and essential minerals, including iron and magnesium. Chickpeas are also rich in antioxidants and other beneficial plant compounds, which have been linked to a variety of health benefits, including improved heart health and reduced inflammation. However, it’s important to note that there is no definitive definition of a superfood, and a balanced diet consisting of a variety of whole foods is key to optimal health.
Chocolate Chickpea Bark Ingredients
If you’re going to make this delicious and nutritious Chocolate Chickpea Bark, you’re going to need:
Dark chocolate: Dark chocolate has a rich, intense flavour that is slightly bitter, but also sweet. It adds depth and complexity to the chickpeas, and also provides health benefits due to its antioxidant content. The texture of the chocolate is smooth and creamy, which complements the crunchiness of the chickpeas.
Chickpeas: Chickpeas have a nutty, earthy flavour that is slightly sweet and savoury. They are also crunchy and provide a satisfying texture to the snack. Chickpeas are a good source of protein and fibre, which makes them a filling and nutritious snack option.
Oil: The oil used in this recipe helps to coat the chickpeas and give them a crispy texture. It also adds a rich, buttery flavour to the snack. Depending on the type of oil used, it can also provide health benefits such as healthy fats and antioxidants.
Cinnamon: Cinnamon has a warm, sweet flavour that is slightly spicy. It adds a comforting and familiar taste to the snack, and also has anti-inflammatory properties that can provide health benefits.
Nutmeg: Nutmeg has a sweet and nutty flavour that is slightly spicy and aromatic. It adds depth and complexity to the snack, and also has anti-inflammatory properties and potential health benefits for digestive health.
Overall, the combination of these ingredients creates a tasty and nutritious snack that satisfies both sweet and savoury cravings. The dark chocolate and spices add depth and complexity to the chickpeas, while the chickpeas themselves provide protein, fibre, and a satisfying crunch.
Chocolate Chickpea Bark
Ingredients
- 1 tin chickpeas drained and rinsed
- 2 tsp oil of choice
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- Pinch nutmeg
- 160 grams 70-85% dark chocolate good quality
- 1 pinch salt
Instructions
- Start by roasting the chickpeas – preheat the oven to 200C and line a baking tray with baking paper.
- Gently pat the chickpeas with a paper towel or tea towel so they're as dry as possible, then add them to the lined baking tray. Drizzle/spray them with the oil and add a pinch salt and the spices, then toss so they're all coated. Place in the oven to bake for 30-35 minutes, until golden and crispy. Let them cool for a few minutes.
- Melt the chocolate in a bain marie until smooth. Add the chickpeas and stir so they're all coated.
- Line a small baking tray with baking paper and pour on the chocolate chickpeas and spread out. Sprinkle with a little flaky sea salt (optional), then place in the freezer to set – around 30 minutes. Break up and enjoy!
Spicing Things Up
These chocolate chickpeas are a delicious and nutritious treat that can be enjoyed on their own or as part of a larger dish. One of the best things about chocolate chickpeas is how versatile they are, allowing for a variety of creative food pairings that can take your taste buds on a wonderful journey.
One classic pairing for chocolate chickpeas is with fruit. Fruits like strawberries, bananas, and raspberries pair particularly well with chocolate, adding a sweet and tangy dimension to the flavour profile. Try mixing your chosen fruit in to the chocolate chickpeas!
Nuts are another great pairing for chocolate chickpeas. Almonds, hazelnuts, and peanuts add an additional crunchy texture that contrasts nicely with the smoothness of the chocolate (plus, nuts are a great source of healthy fats and protein).
Finally, don’t be afraid to experiment with other flavour pairings that appeal to you. Obviously I’ve used cinnamon and nutmeg in this recipe; but consider using other flavours like vanilla and coconut to complement the flavour of chocolate chickpeas. You could also try (and I need to thank an awesome Twitter user for this) adding some spice to the mix! Why not throw some chilli in there for a wonderful chilli dark chocolate chickpea bark?
Chickpea Obsessed? Why Not Try My Asian Chickpeas Recipe?
My Asian Chickpeas recipe is probably my most popular dish. Why not give it a go and see what you think? It’s incredibly tasty and super nutritious!
