Roasted Chickpeas

What a healthy snack?  Try roasting some chickpeas.  They turn golden brown and get a little crunchy so when you eat them they are similar to nuts. 

As one of natures perfect foods they are rich in protein, fiber, complex carbohydrates, folate, iron, and zinc. One half cup of cooked chickpeas provides 7 grams of protein, and only 2 grams of fat.  The body's absorption of the form of iron found in them can be enhanced by consuming them with a dietary source of vitamin C. They are an excellent source of both soluble and in soluble fiber, which means they may help lower blood cholesterol levels.  They are also digested slowing which promotes the gradual release of blood glucose which may be helpful in controlling diabetes. 

Ingredients:
one 15 ounce can garbanzo beans
1 1/2 tbsp olive oil
1/8 tsp of each: Chinese five spice, cumin, cinnamon, Spanish paprika, chipotle power
1/4 tsp salt

Preheat the oven to 400 degrees.

In a small bowl combine the spices and salt.  Set aside

Drain the beans and rinse with water.

Allow to dry somewhat.
Lay a paper towel on a baking sheet and spread the beans on it. Use another towel over the top and gently press and move around to get them dry. Remove any skin from the beans. Discard the paper towels.

Drizzle olive oil over the beans and toss to coat well.  Roast for 30 minutes until they are a deep golden brown. Remove from the oven and immediately sprinkle the spice over them.  Toss to coat well. Serve.

One thing I discovered is that if you put these in a jar with a lid they will turn soft.  To keep them hard do not cover them.  Put them in a nice bowl and leave them that way.

You can use any combination of spices you like. You could try a curry powder or garlic salt. Anything goes.