Crispy Chickpea Cheese Bites with Cacio e Pepe Flavor

Photo credit: www.foodandwine.com

Transforming a simple can of chickpeas into a delicious snack, these savory crisps draw inspiration from the classic Italian dish, cacio e pepe. The method involves roasting chickpeas atop a layer of melted Pecorino Romano cheese, which infuses the snack with a salty richness and a distinct peppery flavor. The cheese crisps up beautifully during the baking process, resulting in a satisfyingly crunchy texture. To ensure the chickpeas are perfectly crisp, they are pre-roasted separately. This step not only enhances their nutty taste but also reduces moisture content, essential for achieving that desirable crunch when combined with the baking cheese.

Can I use pre-grated Pecorino Romano instead of freshly grated?

For the best results, it is advisable to opt for freshly grated Pecorino Romano instead of pre-grated varieties. Pre-grated cheeses often contain anti-caking agents that can inhibit even melting, potentially compromising the texture of the crisps. A freshly grated cheese will melt uniformly, contributing to the ideal crispiness of the snack.

Notes from the Test Kitchen

To achieve optimal crispiness, make sure to drain the chickpeas thoroughly and pat them dry with paper towels. This step is critical; any residual moisture can lead to steaming instead of roasting, resulting in less crunchy crisps.

This recipe was brought to life by Melissa Gray-Streett, with text contributions by Andee Gosnell.

Source
www.foodandwine.com