The weekend is just around the corner, and this recipe for Garbanzo Beans Croquettes is perfect to serve your friends or bring to a party.
It can be made ahead of time and enjoyed at room temperature or just off the grill. I guarantee you it will not disappoint you.
However, you do not have to wait for the weekend and enjoy them for fun. Enjoy them for dinner tonight.
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Vegetarian and packed with fiber and protein. Did I mention the Tahini sauce that goes alongside? Addictive and packed with flavor.
In this Article
- What are Croquettes?
- What are Garbanzo Beans?
- Recipe tips
- Equipment Needed
- Cooking tips and step-by-step instructions to achieve this recipe
- What Can You Serve with the Croquettes?
- Substitutions and Additions
- Storage
- Frequently Asked Questions
- If you enjoy this recipe for garbanzo croquettes, you may want to try:
- Garbanzo Beans Croquettes
What are Croquettes?
Croquettes are a type of fritter, a beloved food item across cultures and cuisines globally.
They are typically made from a thick filling like mashed potatoes or ground meat, then rolled into a small, cylindrical shape.
The croquette is coated in breadcrumbs and deep-fried until its exterior achieves a golden brown and crispy texture.
This crunchy exterior complements the soft, flavorful filling, making croquettes a satisfying and versatile dish.
In the case of Garbanzo Beans Croquettes, the traditional filling is replaced with a healthy and protein-rich mixture of mashed garbanzo beans, making it a perfect vegetarian treat.
What are Garbanzo Beans?
Garbanzo beans, also known as chickpeas, are a type of legume that offers a range of health benefits.
They are rich in protein, making them an excellent meat substitute for vegetarians and vegans. They are also a great source of dietary fiber, which aids in digestion and helps maintain a healthy weight.
In addition to their high protein and fiber content, garbanzo beans contain several key vitamins and minerals, including iron, magnesium, and B vitamins.
Their mild, nutty flavor and creamy texture make them a versatile ingredient in various dishes, from salads and soups to hearty main courses like our Garbanzo Beans Croquettes.
Recipe tips
- If using canned garbanzo beans, rinse them thoroughly to remove any excess sodium. Consider using dried beans for a more eco-friendly and cost-effective option, but remember they must be soaked overnight.
- Avoid overcrowding the pan while frying the croquettes, as this can lower the hot oil’s temperature and lead to soggy, undercooked croquettes.
- For a healthier alternative, these croquettes can also be baked. Remember to flip them halfway to ensure even browning.
- Customize the recipe by adding your favorite herbs or spices to the garbanzo beans mixture for an extra flavor kick.
- Always taste and adjust seasonings before forming and frying the croquettes.
- Prepare the tahini sauce while the croquettes are cooking to save time. However, if made ahead, the sauce may thicken in the fridge – add a bit of warm water to thin it out again before serving.
Equipment Needed
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Food processor – the most significant help as it will combine all the ingredients for you in no time.
Bowls – to create your tahini sauce and prepare your croquettes.
Ice cream scooper – my favorite tool so I can have all the croquettes even size. It is more accessible to cook or bake.
Large skillet – Lodge is one of my favorite fry foods as it keeps the oil to an even temperature throughout.
Paper towel – absorbs the excess oil during cooking.
Cooking tips and step-by-step instructions to achieve this recipe
As with all my recipes, I strongly recommend assembling all your ingredients before assembling your dish.
- In the bowl of a food processor, mix the garbanzo beans, onions, egg, gruyere cheese, oregano, garlic clove, and one tablespoon of olive oil. Mix until you reach a thick paste. Transfer to a large bowl and add the breadcrumbs. Season with salt and pepper and let it rest for 10 minutes.
- Meanwhile, prepare the tahini sauce by adding all the ingredients in a bowl and seasoning it to the desired taste.
Ready to assemble your croquettes
- Slightly wet your hands and grab one spoonful of the garbanzo mix. Roll it and then slightly flatten it. You can also use an ice cream scooper, roll, and flatten.
- Add the remaining two tablespoons of olive oil to a large frying pan, heat, and fry the croquettes for 2 minutes, approximately on each side. Transfer to a paper towel to drain any excess oil.
Serve the croquettes with the sauce.
What Can You Serve with the Croquettes?
These Garbanzo Beans Croquettes are versatile and pair well with various dishes.
Consider a side of crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette for a light, refreshing contrast to the savory croquettes.
Alternatively, you could plate them alongside roasted vegetables or a vibrant, Mediterranean-inspired couscous for a heartier meal.
For a casual snack or party appetizer, serve these croquettes with dips such as hummus, baba ganoush, yogurt feta sauce, and tzatziki.
And, of course, they are perfect when enjoyed with the accompanying tahini sauce.
Substitutions and Additions
- Cheese: The recipe calls for gruyere cheese, but feel free to substitute it with any other cheese you prefer. Cheddar or mozzarella can be great alternatives, while vegan cheese can be used for a plant-based version.
- Herbs and Spices: While the recipe suggests oregano and garlic, don’t be afraid to experiment with other herbs and spices. Cumin, turmeric, cayenne pepper, or smoked paprika can bring a unique flavor profile to your croquettes.
- Breadcrumbs: Use almond flour or gluten-free bread crumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs for a gluten-free option.
- Additions: Feel free to add some vegetables to the mixture. Finely chopped bell peppers, olives, or spinach can contribute to these croquettes’ texture and nutritional value.
- Tahini Sauce: If tahini isn’t your thing or you don’t have it handy, substitute it with a yogurt-based or avocado-based sauce. Or, for a spicy kick, a simple Sriracha and mayo blend can work wonders.
Storage
The Garbanzo Beans mixture can be prepared a day in advance, refrigerated, and covered until you’re ready to shape and cook the croquettes. The tahini sauce can also be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator.
Remember to stir in a bit of warm water if it thickens too much. These make-ahead steps can save you time, especially when preparing for a large gathering or meal prepping for the week.
Refrigerator:
Leftover Garbanzo Beans Croquettes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, place the croquettes on a baking sheet and warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes or until heated.
Freezer:
These croquettes are freezer-friendly, making them a fantastic make-ahead option. After shaping the croquettes before frying, place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid.
Once frozen, transfer the croquettes to a zip-top bag or airtight container and store them in the freezer for up to 3 months.
When you’re ready to eat, there’s no need to thaw – fry or bake the croquettes straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different kind of oil for frying the croquettes?
You can use oil with a high smoke point, such as canola, sunflower, or avocado oil. However, olive oil is recommended for its distinct flavor and health benefits.
Can I make the croquettes without a food processor?
Although a food processor makes achieving the desired consistency for the croquette mixture easier, you can still make them without one. Mash the garbanzo beans with a fork or a potato masher and finely chop the onions, garlic, and herbs before mixing everything.
How can I ensure my croquettes are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside?
The key to achieving perfect croquettes is the right heat and cooking time. The oil should be hot enough so the croquettes sizzle as soon as they hit the pan but not so hot that they burn before the inside is cooked. If unsure, test with one croquette on medium heat before frying the rest.
Can these croquettes be made vegan?
Yes, you can make vegan croquettes by substituting the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) and the cheese with a vegan alternative. Ensure to confirm that your breadcrumbs are also vegan.
If you enjoy this recipe for garbanzo croquettes, you may want to try:
Cresson, Garbanzo Beans, Dates Salad
Delicata Squash, Radicchio and Garbanzo Salad
Garbanzo Beans Croquettes
Ingredients
- 16 ounces garbanzo beans
- ⅓ cup yellow onion, finely chopped
- 1 egg
- ¾ cup grated gruyere cheese
- 4 tablespoons parsley, chopped
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- salt and pepper, to taste
TAHINI SAUCE
- 2 tablespoons Italian parsley, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons tahini sauce
- 2 tablespoons hot water
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- In the bowl of a food processor mix the garbanzo beans, onions, egg, gruyere cheese, oregano, garlic and 1 tablespoon olive oil. Mix until you reach a thick paste. Transfer to a bowl and add the breadcrumbs. Season with salt and pepper and let it rest for 10 minutes.
- Meanwhile prepare the tahini sauce by adding all the ingredients in a bowl and season to desired taste.
- Slightly wet your hands and grab one spoonful of the garbanzo mix. Roll it and then slightly flatten. You can also use an ice cream scooper, roll and flatten.
- In a large skillet heat, add the remaining 2 tablespoons olive oil and fry the croquettes 2 minutes approximately on each side. Transfer to a paper towel to drain any oil excess.
- Serve the croquettes with the sauce.
Nutrition
Giangi’s Kitchen provides nutritional information, but these figures should be considered estimates, as a registered dietician does not calculate them.
- Course: Appetizers, Dinners, Vegetables
- Cuisine: French
- Type: Under 45 minutes
Did you make this?
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Originally published on January 28, 2020.
Genevieve
These croquettes were out of this world! The texture was perfect and that Gruyère cheese made everything rich and melty. I’ll be making these again for sure!
Giangi Townsend
Thank you, Genevieve, I am happy you enjoyed the recipe.
Christine
I’ve always loved garbanzo beans but I kind of run out of creativity with how to make them, so this croquette recipe was perfect! I was a little intimidated at first, but the process was really quite easy to replicate. I especially loved the tahini sauce — I think I’ll be making that quite often, even for other dishes!
Giangi Townsend
Thank you, Christine, for your feedback. I am so happy you enjoyed the recipe. We love garbanzo beans and any opportunity arises, they alwyas be incorporated in my cooking.
I hope you will check out our other recipes with them.
Enjoy!