These lemon garlic chickpea cakes are crisp on the outside, tender on the inside, and packed with bright citrus and savory garlic flavor. They make a satisfying plant-forward meal or appetizer that comes together quickly with pantry staples and fresh herbs.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These chickpea cakes are simple to prepare yet full of flavor. They are naturally hearty, budget-friendly, and versatile enough to serve as a main dish, side, or snack. The lemon zest adds freshness, the garlic brings depth, and the chickpeas create a satisfying texture without being heavy. They can also be made vegetarian or vegan with an easy swap.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 can (400 g) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 2 garlic cloves, finely minced
• Zest of 1 medium lemon
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped, plus extra for garnish
• 1 large egg
  • or for a vegan option: 1 flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2 1/2 tablespoons water, rested 5 minutes)
• 3 tablespoons breadcrumbs (panko or fine breadcrumbs)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 2 tablespoons olive oil, for frying
• Lemon wedges, for serving

Directions

1. Place the chickpeas in a medium bowl and mash them with a fork or potato masher until mostly broken down, leaving some small chunks for texture.
2. Add the minced garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, chopped parsley, egg (or prepared flax egg), breadcrumbs, salt, and black pepper.
3. Mix until everything is well combined and a thick, scoopable mixture forms.
4. Divide the mixture into 6 equal portions, about 1/4 cup each, and shape them into round patties.
5. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
6. Add the patties to the pan and cook for 3 to 4 minutes per side, until golden brown and crisp.
7. Transfer to a plate and garnish with extra parsley. Serve warm with lemon wedges.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 6 chickpea cakes
• Preparation time: 10 minutes
• Cooking time: 8 minutes
• Total time: approximately 18 minutes

Variations

• Add 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin or paprika for a warmer, spiced flavor.
• Mix in 2 tablespoons finely chopped green onion or red onion for extra bite.
• Replace parsley with fresh cilantro or dill for a different herb profile.
• For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or chickpea flour.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover chickpea cakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes per side to restore crispness, or place them in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 8 minutes. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make them soft.

FAQs

Can I make these chickpea cakes ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the mixture and shape the patties up to 24 hours in advance. Keep them covered in the refrigerator until ready to cook.

Are these chickpea cakes vegan?

They can be made vegan by replacing the egg with a flax egg as described in the ingredients list.

Can I bake these instead of frying?

Yes, you can bake them at 200°C (400°F) for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and firm.

What can I serve with chickpea cakes?

They pair well with a fresh salad, yogurt-based sauce, tahini sauce, or roasted vegetables.

Why is my mixture too crumbly?

This usually means it needs more binding. Add a little more beaten egg or a tablespoon of water and mix again.

Why is my mixture too wet?

If the mixture feels too wet, add 1 more tablespoon of breadcrumbs and let it rest for a minute before shaping.

Can I freeze chickpea cakes?

Yes, freeze cooked cakes in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. They keep well for up to 2 months.

How do I reheat frozen chickpea cakes?

Reheat from frozen in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for 12 to 15 minutes, or until heated through.

Can I use dried chickpeas instead of canned?

Yes, use about 1 1/2 cups cooked chickpeas. Make sure they are well cooked and drained.

Do these chickpea cakes hold together well?

Yes, as long as the mixture is well mixed and the patties are gently compacted, they hold together nicely during cooking.

Conclusion

Lemon garlic chickpea cakes are a fresh, flavorful option when you want something quick, nourishing, and satisfying. With simple ingredients and flexible variations, they are easy to adapt to your taste and perfect for both everyday meals and casual entertaining.

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