Cuban-Style Fried Chickpeas

Cuban-Style Fried Chickpeas: An Explosion of Creole Flavors

A Cuban table classic that never disappoints. This recipe combines tender legumes with cured meats and a fragrant sofrito, resulting in a hearty and flavorful dish. Perfect to enjoy with family, accompanied by slices of bread or crackers and a good glass of wine.

🥘 Ingredients

• 1 pound of chickpeas (previously cooked and kept whole)
• 1 medium onion
• 1/2 lemon
• Ground black pepper
• 4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 1/4 cup tomato sauce
• 4 garlic cloves
• 3 teaspoons fresh parsley (finely chopped)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup Serrano ham (cut into small pieces)
• 2 Spanish chorizos (cut into small pieces)
• 10 ounces bacon (cut into small pieces)
• 1 teaspoon paprika

 

 

👨‍🍳 Step-by-Step Preparation

1. Fry the bacon

Place the bacon in a large skillet with a little oil and fry over medium-high heat until it releases its fat and becomes golden. Remove and set aside.

2. Sauté the aromatics

In the same fat, add the rest of the oil, the chopped onion, and garlic. Add a little salt and cook until tender and fragrant.

3. Add the cured meats

Incorporate the ham, stir well, and then add the chorizo. Sauté for a few minutes, stirring to blend flavors.

4. Season the sofrito

Add the paprika and tomato sauce. Mix well until everything is coated and evenly colored.

5. Integrate the chickpeas

Add the parsley followed by the cooked chickpeas. Stir gently so they absorb the sofrito well and fry for a few minutes.

6. Finish with freshness

Incorporate the reserved bacon and a pinch of pepper. Squeeze the juice of half a lemon, stir, and adjust the salt. Cook for a few more minutes, then turn off the heat and let rest for 10 minutes before serving.

ℹ️ Recipe Details

• Servings: 4
• Preparation time: 30 minutes
• Resting time: 10 minutes
• Category: Salads and Appetizers
• Cuisine: Cuban

✅ Useful Tips

• If using canned chickpeas, rinse them well before cooking.
• Bacon can be replaced with pancetta for a milder touch.
• Lemon juice enhances the flavor and balances the richness of the meats.
• Serve this dish with crusty bread or the crackers of your choice.

📌 Suggested Tags

fried chickpeas, Cuban recipes, Caribbean tapas, traditional cooking, chickpea appetizers, cured meats

📣 Share Your Experience!

Have you tried it already? Leave us a comment, share your photos, and save this recipe for your next homemade meal. Don’t forget to follow us for more authentic Cuban cooking ideas.

For the Spanish version, visit: Garbanzos Fritos al Estilo Cubano.