Low Carb Chickpea Flour Recipes: Delicious and Healthy Options
If you’re looking for low carb recipes that are both tasty and healthy, you might want to consider using chickpea flour. Chickpea flour, also known as gram flour or besan, is a gluten-free flour made from ground chickpeas. It’s a great alternative to wheat flour for those who are gluten intolerant or looking to cut back on carbs.
Chickpea flour is not only low in carbs, but it’s also high in protein and fiber, making it a great addition to any diet. It can be used in a variety of recipes, from savory to sweet, and can be substituted for wheat flour in many traditional recipes. Chickpea flour can be used to make everything from pancakes and bread to pizza crust and cookies.
If you’re looking for low carb chickpea flour recipes, you’re in luck! There are plenty of delicious and healthy recipes out there that are easy to make and taste great. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy breakfast or a satisfying dinner, chickpea flour can be a versatile and nutritious ingredient to add to your meals.
Basics of Chickpea Flour
Chickpea flour, also known as gram flour or besan, is a versatile and nutritious ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes. It is made by grinding dried chickpeas into a fine powder, and has a slightly nutty flavor that works well in both sweet and savory recipes.
Nutritional Benefits
Chickpea flour is a great source of protein, fiber, and other important nutrients. One cup of chickpea flour contains approximately:
- 356 calories
- 20 grams of protein
- 10 grams of fiber
- 53 grams of carbohydrates
- 6 grams of fat
In addition to being low in fat and high in fiber, chickpea flour is also rich in vitamins and minerals such as iron, magnesium, and zinc. This makes it a great choice for anyone looking to add more plant-based protein and nutrients to their diet.
Low Carb Baking Tips
If you’re looking to reduce your carb intake, chickpea flour is a great alternative to traditional wheat flour. Here are a few tips to keep in mind when baking with chickpea flour:
- Use a blend of chickpea flour and almond flour for a lower carb option.
- Add a little bit of xanthan gum to help with binding and texture.
- Experiment with different sweeteners, such as stevia or monk fruit, to keep the carb count down.
- Don’t be afraid to try savory recipes, such as chickpea flour pancakes or socca, for a low carb breakfast or snack option.
By using chickpea flour in your low carb recipes, you can enjoy all the nutritional benefits of this versatile ingredient while still sticking to your dietary goals.
Savory Chickpea Flour Recipes
If you’re looking for low-carb alternatives to traditional wheat-based bread and appetizers, chickpea flour is a great option. Not only is it gluten-free, but it’s also high in protein and fiber, making it a nutritious choice for those watching their carbohydrate intake. Here are some savory chickpea flour recipes to try:
Breads and Flatbreads
Chickpea flour can be used to make a variety of bread and flatbread recipes that are perfect for sandwiches or as a side dish to a main course. One popular option is socca, a French flatbread made with chickpea flour, water, and olive oil. It’s crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, and can be seasoned with herbs and spices to add flavor. Another option is to make a low-carb pizza crust with chickpea flour, topped with your favorite vegetables and cheese.
Appetizers and Snacks
Chickpea flour can also be used to make delicious appetizers and snacks that are perfect for parties or as a midday snack. One easy option is to make chickpea flour crackers, which can be seasoned with herbs and spices to add flavor. Another option is to make pakoras, an Indian snack made with chickpea flour and vegetables. They’re crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, and can be served with chutney or yogurt dip. Finally, you can make chickpea flour fritters, which are similar to pakoras but are made with a thicker batter and can be filled with cheese or vegetables.
These are just a few examples of the many savory chickpea flour recipes that are available. By experimenting with different herbs, spices, and fillings, you can create your own unique low-carb dishes that are both nutritious and delicious.
Sweet Chickpea Flour Treats
If you have a sweet tooth and are following a low-carb diet, you don’t have to give up your favorite treats. Chickpea flour is a versatile ingredient that can be used to make delicious and healthy sweet treats. Here are some ideas for sweet chickpea flour treats that you can enjoy without the guilt.
Pancakes and Waffles
Chickpea flour pancakes and waffles are a great way to start your day. They are easy to make and can be customized to suit your taste. You can add your favorite fruits, nuts, and spices to the batter to make them even more flavorful. Chickpea flour is a low-carb alternative to wheat flour, so you can enjoy these pancakes and waffles without worrying about your carb intake.
Cookies and Bars
Chickpea flour can also be used to make delicious cookies and bars. You can use it as a substitute for wheat flour in your favorite cookie and bar recipes. Chickpea flour is high in protein and fiber, which makes it a healthier alternative to wheat flour. You can add chocolate chips, nuts, and dried fruits to the batter to make your cookies and bars even more delicious.
Here are some chickpea flour cookie and bar recipes to try:
- Chocolate Chip Chickpea Flour Cookies
- Lemon Chickpea Flour Bars
- Peanut Butter Chickpea Flour Cookies
In conclusion, chickpea flour is a great ingredient to use when making low-carb sweet treats. It is versatile and can be used in a variety of recipes. Pancakes, waffles, cookies, and bars are just a few examples of the delicious treats you can make with chickpea flour.
