If you’re searching for a delightful twist on traditional pancakes, these healthy French vegetable chickpea pancakes (also known as socca) are a wonderful option. Light, nutritious, and packed with flavor, they offer a satisfying meal or snack that aligns perfectly with a balanced diet.
Ingredients:
1 cup chickpea flour (also known as gram flour)
1 cup water
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon ground cumin
½ teaspoon salt
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
1 cup finely chopped seasonal vegetables (e.g., zucchini, bell peppers, spinach, or carrots)
Fresh herbs, such as parsley or cilantro, chopped (optional)
Olive oil for cooking
Steps:
1. Prepare the batter:
In a mediumsized bowl, combine the chickpea flour, water, olive oil, ground cumin, salt, and black pepper. Whisk until you have a smooth, lumpfree batter. Let it sit for about 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the batter to thicken slightly.
2. Chop the vegetables:
While the batter is resting, wash and finely chop your selection of seasonal vegetables. Feel free to get creative with different colors and textures to enhance both nutritional value and visual appeal.
3. Combine vegetables with the batter:
After the resting period, gently fold the chopped vegetables and fresh herbs (if using) into the batter, ensuring they are well distributed.
4. Heat the pan:
In a nonstick skillet or frying pan, heat a small amount of olive oil over medium heat. You want just enough oil to coat the bottom of the pan without drowning the pancakes.
5. Cook the pancakes:
Once the pan is hot, pour about ½ cup of the batter into the skillet, using the back of a spoon to spread it into a round shape. Cook for about 34 minutes, or until the edges start to lift and the bottom turns golden brown.
6. Flip the pancakes:
Carefully flip the pancake using a spatula and cook for another 23 minutes on the other side until it is also golden brown and cooked through.
7. Repeat:
Add more oil to the pan as necessary and repeat the cooking process with the remaining batter. You can keep the finished pancakes warm in a low oven while you finish cooking the rest.
8. Serve:
Serve the pancakes warm, drizzled with a bit more olive oil, or alongside a refreshing yogurt dip or a simple salad for added texture and flavor.
Enjoy your wholesome French vegetable chickpea pancakes!
The use of chickpea flour not only adds a nutty flavor but also provides a good source of protein, fiber, and various essential nutrients, making these pancakes a nutritious option for any meal of the day. With each bite, savor the warmth and richness of the vegetables infused in the pancake, bringing both satisfaction and nourishment to your palate.