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Chickpea Flour Waffles
Chickpea flour waffles are a healthy, gluten-free alternative to traditional waffles, packed with protein and fiber. Made with chickpea flour, these waffles are versatile and can be enjoyed with a variety of toppings, both sweet and savory. Whether you're following a gluten-free diet or simply looking for a nutritious breakfast option, these waffles are a fantastic choice. They are easy to make, requiring just a few ingredients and a waffle iron, and offer a deliciously crispy exterior with a tender, fluffy interior.
Equipment
- Waffle Iron
- Mixing Bowls
- Whisk
- Spatula
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
- Ladle or Measuring Cup
Ingredients
Waffles
- 1 ½ cups chickpea flour also known as gram flour or besan
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon sugar optional, for sweet waffles
- ¼ teaspoon ground cumin or smoked paprika optional, for savory waffles
- 1 cup water or plant-based milk such as almond or oat milk
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted coconut oil
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract optional, for sweet waffles
Optional Toppings
- Sweet Toppings: Fresh berries maple syrup, sliced bananas, nut butter, or whipped cream.
- Savory Toppings: Avocado slices poached eggs, smoked salmon, sautéed greens, or a drizzle of tahini.
Instructions
Prepare the Waffle Batter
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the chickpea flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and sugar (if using for sweet waffles). If you're making savory waffles, you can also add ground cumin or smoked paprika at this stage for extra flavor.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the water or plant-based milk, olive oil or melted coconut oil, apple cider vinegar, and vanilla extract (if using for sweet waffles).
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry mixture, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. The batter should be smooth and slightly thick. If it's too thick, you can add a little more water or plant-based milk to reach the desired consistency.
- Rest the Batter: Let the batter rest for about 5 minutes. This allows the chickpea flour to hydrate and results in a better texture for the waffles.
Cook the Waffles
- Preheat the Waffle Iron: While the batter is resting, preheat your waffle iron according to the manufacturer's instructions.
- Grease the Waffle Iron: Lightly grease the waffle iron with a bit of oil or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Cook the Waffles: Once the waffle iron is hot, ladle or pour enough batter onto the waffle iron to cover the surface, but be careful not to overfill. Close the lid and cook according to your waffle iron’s instructions, usually about 3-5 minutes, or until the waffles are golden brown and crispy.
- Keep Warm: If you're making multiple waffles, you can keep them warm in a preheated oven (about 200°F or 95°C) while you finish cooking the remaining batter.
Serve
- Serve Immediately: Serve the chickpea flour waffles hot, topped with your choice of sweet or savory toppings. Enjoy the waffles as a hearty breakfast, a satisfying brunch, or even a light dinner.
Notes
Tips for Making the Perfect Chickpea Flour Waffles
- Use Fresh Chickpea Flour: Chickpea flour can go rancid if not stored properly, so make sure to use fresh flour for the best flavor. Store it in an airtight container in a cool, dry place, or keep it in the refrigerator.
- Customize the Flavor: Chickpea flour has a slightly nutty taste that pairs well with both sweet and savory flavors. Don't hesitate to experiment with different spices and seasonings to suit your taste preferences.
- Don't Overmix the Batter: Overmixing can lead to tough waffles. Stir the ingredients until just combined to keep the waffles light and fluffy.
- Adjust the Consistency: If the batter is too thick, add a little more water or plant-based milk until it reaches the desired consistency. The batter should be pourable but not too runny.
- Make Ahead and Freeze: Chickpea flour waffles freeze well, making them a great option for meal prep. Simply cook the waffles, let them cool completely, and then freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag or airtight container. To reheat, pop them in the toaster or oven until warmed through and crispy.