Smoky Chickpea Potato Skins: A Breakfast Revolution!
Hey there, fellow food adventurers! Ever find yourself in a breakfast rut? I know I have! I'm usually a 'grab-and-go' kind of person, a quick smoothie or a piece of fruit and some coffee and I am out the door. But today, lets talk about these spectacular vegan potato skins with smoky chickpeas – they're about to change your breakfast game forever!
So, picture this: crispy, golden-brown potato skins, loaded with a flavourful, smoky chickpea mixture that’s both satisfying and nutritious. It's like the ultimate comfort food mashup, and it's totally vegan! This recipe was born from a desire to shake up my own routine and a need to use up some forgotten potatoes—a happy accident, if you ask me!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Hearty and Satisfying: These potato skins are packed with plant-based protein and fibre, keeping you full and energized until lunchtime.
- Flavour Explosion: The smoky paprika and ancho chili paste give the chickpeas a rich, complex flavour that'll have you coming back for more.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Both the potato skins and the chickpea mixture can be prepped ahead of time, making busy mornings a breeze.
- Versatile: Feel free to get creative with your toppings! A dollop of vegan yogurt, a sprinkle of fresh herbs, or even a bit of smashed avocado would be incredible.
- It is a great way to use up leftovers: Forgot about some spuds? No problem, they become the star of the show!
A Little Story
I have to confess, I have been know to be a bit of a grump before I get my coffee, much like some people I live with... On this day I had an early appointment, and I foolishly thought I could make it without breakfast. Let me tell you, by 11 AM, I was in desperate need of some food and was not a pleasant person to be around. When I got home I created this, and I will never be making the same mistake again. I need these potato skins in my life every morning.
Let's Get Cooking
Ready to dive in? Here’s what you'll need:
Ingredients:
- 4 medium-large potatoes (any kind will work, but Maris Piper are great)
- Olive oil
- 2 shallots, finely chopped
- 1 large garlic clove, finely chopped
- ½ tsp cumin
- ½-1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1-2 tsp ancho chili paste, adjust to taste
- 400g / 14 oz quality plum tomatoes
- ½ tsp salt, adjust to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 1 tsp date syrup or sugar (optional), adjust to taste
- A squeeze of lime, optional
- 1 cup cooked chickpeas
- Fresh parsley or coriander, chopped
- Thick vegan yogurt or vegan sour cream, to serve
Instructions:
- Prep the Potatoes: Scrub the potatoes and parboil them for about 15 minutes. Let them cool completely.
- Sauté the Aromatics: While the potatoes cool, heat olive oil in a pan. Fry shallots and garlic until they’re soft and translucent.
- Spice It Up: Add cumin, smoked paprika, and ancho chili paste, and cook for a minute, stirring to avoid burning.
- Simmer the Sauce: Add plum tomatoes and their juices, along with a can of water. Simmer until the tomatoes are cooked down and the sauce has thickened. Season with salt, pepper, sugar, and lime juice.
- Chickpea Time: Stir in the cooked chickpeas and warm them through. For the best flavour, let the sauce sit overnight.
- Preheat the Oven: Heat your oven to 180°C / 355°F and line a baking tray.
- Scoop and Bake: Cut the cooled potatoes in half lengthwise and scoop out most of the flesh, leaving a thin layer. Brush with olive oil and season with salt.
- Crisp It Up: Bake the potatoes for about 20 minutes. Then, turn the oven up to 250°C / 480°F and move the tray up a notch. Bake for another 10-15 minutes, until the edges are golden brown.
- Assemble and Serve: Fill each potato skin with the smoky chickpeas. Top with vegan yogurt, fresh herbs, and a sprinkle of black pepper.
Notes:
- Don’t toss the scooped-out potato flesh! Make some delicious UFO fries by coating them in olive oil, seasoning, and baking them until golden and crispy.
Enjoy!
There you have it – a breakfast that’s both comforting and exciting. It’s a great way to start the day or even to enjoy as a light lunch or snack. Don't forget to tag me in your culinary creations, you will find me on all social media platforms. Now go get creative, and enjoy!