Baked Spiced-up Chickpeas

uch is being said these days about the importance of eating healthy. I believe there is an increased awareness among people in general as well. The sad part is that health food oftentimes discounts on arguably the second most important aspect of food - taste. Well it does not have to be that way. It can not only taste great but actually taste like some of the most sinful treats that we coerce ourselves into resisting. If you have ever tried chana-zor or 'mixture' as it is also called in some parts of India, you would know that awesome tangy spicy crunchy taste that I believe hardly there would be any soul that does not like. Yet, at least I know for one that resists it due to all the deep frying involved. This masala mix of chickpeas is a attempt to create the same spicy tangy taste but without having to fire up the fryer. Being chickpea based, it also provides a healthy serving of protein. Although, after you've tried it you will care less about the nutrition and simply enjoy the addictive taste.

Ingredients:
Chickpeas ..................... 2 cans washed and rinsed or 3-4 cups boiled and drained
Coriander powder ........... 1 tsp
Chat masala ................... 1 tsp
Cayenne pepper .............. 1 tsp
Salt ............................. 3/4 tsp  or to taste
Lemon juice ................... 1 tsp
Turmeric ....................... a pinch
Garam masala .................. 1 /2 tsp
Olive oil ........................ 1 1/2 tbsp

Method:
1. Preheat over to 400ºF.
2. Mix everything in a big bowl till chickpeas are evenly coated with the spices.
3. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Spread the chickpeas evenly in a single layer.
4. Bake for 15-17 min after which toss it around with a wooden spoon once and bake for another 15-17 min or until chickpeas are crunchy and golden. Keep an eye and test every few minutes until desired texture is reached.
5. Cool for 10 minutes. Store in an airtight container at room temperature. My favorite way to eat them is throwing in some dried cranberries, lemon juice and gobble while watching your fav TV show. Enjoy!

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