Jamaican Spiced Chickpeas

Name: Jamaican Spiced Chickpeas
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cans (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon ground coriander; 1/2 teaspoon turmeric; 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat); Salt and pepper to taste; Juice of 1 lime; Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I absolutely love making Jamaican Spiced Chickpeas during the week because they are not only quick to prepare but also packed with vibrant flavors. The combination of spices creates a warm, aromatic experience that transforms simple chickpeas into a delectable dish. Whether I serve them as a side or toss them into a salad, these chickpeas always impress. Plus, they’re a fantastic way to incorporate more plant-based protein into our meals. Give them a try and watch them become a favorite in your household, just like they are in mine!

Created by

Anya Coleman

Last updated on 2026-01-06T00:34:18.823Z

When I first discovered Jamaican Spiced Chickpeas, it was like a flavorful explosion in my mouth. The unique blend of spices like cumin and turmeric adds warmth, while the lime juice brings a refreshing brightness. Every time I make these, I play around with the spices a little, and I always end up with something delightful. This flexibility allows everyone to tweak the flavors just how they like it!

One of my favorite tips is to roast the chickpeas until they are crispy. It really enhances the texture and makes them even more enjoyable to munch on. I often blend them into a salad or enjoy them as a snack straight from the pan. Trust me, once you try these, you'll understand why they're a staple in my kitchen!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Bold and aromatic spices make every bite exciting.
Versatile use as a side dish or snack, perfect for any meal.
Quick and easy to prepare, suitable for busy weeknights.

      

Key Ingredients Highlights

The chickpeas are the star of this dish; their texture is crucial for achieving the right balance between crispy and tender. When roasted, they develop a satisfying crunch that contrasts perfectly with the warmth of the spices. Make sure to rinse and drain them thoroughly to remove excess starch, which can cause them to steam rather than crisp up in the oven. If you're short on time, using pre-cooked chickpeas can work, but roasting them from canned will yield the best results.

The spices selected for this recipe play a vital role in creating its distinctive flavor profile. Cumin and coriander provide earthy notes, while turmeric adds both color and health benefits as a powerful anti-inflammatory agent. Smoked paprika delivers a subtle smokiness, enhancing the overall depth of flavor. If you're looking to customize the heat level, feel free to adjust the cayenne pepper or substitute it with a milder option like paprika or omit it entirely for a milder flavor.

Cooking Techniques for Success

Roasting the chickpeas at the right temperature is essential for achieving the desired crispy texture. Setting your oven to 400°F (200°C) allows them to roast evenly while also developing a golden color. Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes of baking to prevent burning; they should be crispy to the bite and golden around the edges when done. If you're cooking multiple batches, be sure to use a thorough method of transferring the chickpeas to a fresh baking sheet to avoid steaming.

After roasting, squeezing fresh lime juice over the chickpeas not only adds brightness but also helps to enhance the flavors of the spices. I recommend giving them a good toss to ensure even coating. If you're serving them later, wait until just before serving to add the lime juice, as it can make them soggy over time. These chickpeas are also great to make ahead of time; simply store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your delicious Jamaican Spiced Chickpeas:

Ingredients

2 cans (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon ground coriander
1/2 teaspoon turmeric
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
Salt and pepper to taste
Juice of 1 lime
Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Mix the ingredients thoroughly to ensure the chickpeas are evenly coated with the spices.

Instructions

Follow these steps for a perfectly spiced chickpea dish:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

Prepare the Chickpeas

In a bowl, combine the drained chickpeas, olive oil, cumin, coriander, turmeric, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat the chickpeas evenly.

Roast the Chickpeas

Spread the chickpeas on a baking sheet in a single layer. Roast in the preheated oven for 20 minutes or until they are crispy and golden.

Finish with Lime

Once roasted, remove the chickpeas from the oven and squeeze fresh lime juice over them. Toss to mix.

Garnish and Serve

Garnish with chopped cilantro before serving and enjoy your tasty Jamaican Spiced Chickpeas!

You can enjoy these delicious chickpeas warm or at room temperature.

Pro Tips

For an extra punch of flavor, feel free to experiment with additional spices such as allspice or ginger.

Enjoying Your Chickpeas

Jamaican Spiced Chickpeas can be served in a variety of ways. They make a fantastic side dish paired with rice and peas or can be tossed into salads for a nutritious boost. I love adding them to grain bowls with greens, avocado, and a drizzle of tahini for a complete meal. Since they hold their shape well, these chickpeas can also be made into a topping for tacos or wrapped in flatbreads for a delightful vegan lunch.

For an appetizer, serve them warm with a yogurt-based dip or chutney; the crispy texture of the chickpeas against a creamy, cool dip is simply delicious. If you're having a gathering, consider making a larger batch and serving them as a snack alongside drinks. They're addictive and will keep your guests coming back for more!

Storage and Meal Prep Tips

If you've made a larger batch of Jamaican Spiced Chickpeas, they can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days for the best texture. However, if you need to store them longer, consider placing them in the refrigerator, where they'll last up to a week. Just be aware that refrigeration can soften their crispy exterior, so re-crisp them in the oven for a few minutes before serving.

These chickpeas also freeze well, making them a great addition to your meal prep routine. After they have cooled completely, spread them on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. When you're ready to use them, you can roast them straight from the freezer, adding a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure they achieve the right crispiness.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use dried chickpeas instead of canned?

Yes, just cook them beforehand and make sure they are tender before seasoning and roasting.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store the chickpeas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I make this recipe spicy?

Absolutely! Just increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add a chopped jalapeño before roasting.

→ What can I serve these chickpeas with?

They are great with salads, wraps, or as a crunchy snack on their own.