Why make this?
These feel like such a treat for kids, they honestly have no idea how healthy they are, and I have no plans on letting them in on the secret. They are so quick to make and feed the grown-ups too. These are relatively inexpensive to make, so we have them once a week in our house, a stable classic. The outside gets a satisfying fried, crispy coating that kids love. They’re chock full of protein and fibre too.
Who can eat this?
Vegetarians: Definitely!
Vegans: They’re perfect for vegans too.
Celiacs/coeliacs/gluten intolerant: This recipe is ideal for Coeliacs/Celiacs as it uses oats as a binder instead of flour. Please be sure to buy gluten-free labelled oats if your little one eats gluten-free.
Tip!
If you’ve had your blender for a long time, consider sharpening the blades. I’ve had mine for a few years and hadn’t noticed the blades dull over time. It was taking quite a while to handle even a small mixture. I sharpened mine, and now I can make these burgers in half the time.
Recipe: Chickpea Bites
Makes about 24 bites
Ingredients
- 1 can of organic chickpeas, rinsed
- 1 red onion, chopped
- 1 aubergine, sliced
- 1 cup gluten-free rolled oats(or regular oats if you can eat gluten)Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 2 teaspoons tomato puree
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
Instructions
- Put all of your ingredients into your blender apart from the oats. Blend until smooth like hummus.
- Add the oats on top of the chickpea mix and blend for 1-2 minutes or until very smooth. This step is crucial, if you can see little bits of oats then keep blending.
- Heat your oil on a non-stick frying pan.
- Use a melon baller or table spoon to get even sizing for your bites and scoop them straight onto the hot pan. You should get about 24 bites.
- Flatten each one straight away with a spatula.
- Cook each side for about 6 minutes on low-medium heat, ensuring they’re not getting too dark while cooking through.