Spicy Wasabi Peas Recipe: Crunchy Delight with a Kick

Ingredients:

• 2 cups dried whole chickpeas

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 4 teaspoons wasabi powder

• 2 tablespoons tahini

• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar

• 1 tablespoon tamari

• Salt, to taste

Instructions:

1. Prep and Soak: Begin by soaking the chickpeas in water overnight to soften them for a delightful crunch.

2. Cook the Chickpeas: After soaking, drain the chickpeas and cook them according to the package instructions. Once cooked, pat them dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.

3. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 200°F (93°C) while you prepare the chickpeas.

4. Coat with Olive Oil: In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked chickpeas with olive oil, ensuring they’re evenly coated for maximum flavor.

5. Spread on Baking Sheet: Arrange the chickpeas in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet, ensuring they’re not overcrowded.

6. Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the chickpeas for approximately 5 hours or until they are dry and crispy, stirring occasionally for even cooking.

7. Prepare the Wasabi Mixture: While the chickpeas are baking, prepare the wasabi mixture. In a separate mixing bowl, combine the wasabi powder, tahini, rice vinegar, and tamari. Mix until smooth and well combined.

8. Coat the Chickpeas: Once the chickpeas are crispy, remove them from the oven and immediately transfer them to the bowl with the wasabi mixture. Toss gently until the chickpeas are evenly coated with the spicy mixture.

9. Final Bake: Spread the coated chickpeas back onto the baking sheet and return them to the oven for an additional 10 minutes at 250°F (121°C) to dry the coating.

10. Cool and Enjoy: Remove the chickpeas from the oven and allow them to cool completely before serving. Sprinkle with salt to taste and enjoy as a crunchy snack or as a topping for salads and soups.

Additional Tips and Suggestions:

• For an extra kick of heat, increase the amount of wasabi powder according to your preference.

• Store the cooled Wasabi Peas in an airtight container for up to one week to maintain their crispiness.

• Experiment with different spices and seasonings to create your own unique flavor combinations.

• Enjoy the Wasabi Peas as a satisfying snack on their own or as a crunchy topping for your favorite dishes.

Nutritional Information:

• Chickpeas are rich in protein and fiber, making them a nutritious and satisfying snack option.

• Wasabi powder contains antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties that may offer various health benefits.

• Olive oil provides healthy fats and contributes to the crispy texture of the chickpeas.

• Tahini is a good source of essential minerals like calcium, iron, and magnesium.

• Rice vinegar adds tanginess to the recipe and may aid in digestion.