Souq Spice Crunch

Introduction

The Souq Spice Crunch is a savory snack that embodies the rich flavors and aromatic spices of Middle Eastern culinary traditions. Inspired by the bustling souqs, or markets, where a myriad of spices fill the air with their enchanting scents, this recipe combines chickpeas, nuts, and grains with a vibrant blend of seasonings. Enjoyed both as a standalone snack or as a topping for salads and bowls, Souq Spice Crunch offers a delightful textural contrast and a depth of flavor that is truly captivating. Join me on a journey to create this delectable treat that will transport your senses to the heart of a Middle Eastern spice market.

Ingredients

Before we delve into the preparation, let's gather our flavorful ingredients. Click on each ingredient for more information.

• 2 cups chickpeas, cooked and drained
• 1 cup almonds, raw
• 1 cup pistachios, shelled
• 1 cup cashews, raw
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 teaspoons cumin seeds
• 2 teaspoons coriander seeds
• 1 tablespoon sumac
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon sea salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon honey
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 2 tablespoons fresh mint, chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Preparation

Preparing the Chickpeas and Nuts

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Arrange the chickpeas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Roast them for 20 minutes, stirring halfway through, until they are crisp and golden. In the meantime, mix the almonds, pistachios, and cashews in a large bowl.

Mixing the Spices

While the chickpeas are roasting, heat a small skillet over medium heat. Toast the cumin seeds and coriander seeds for a few seconds until fragrant. Once toasted, grind them in a spice grinder or mortar and pestle. Combine the ground spices with sumac, cayenne pepper, paprika, salt, and black pepper in a bowl. Set this spice mixture aside.

Infusing Olive Oil

In a small saucepan, heat olive oil over low heat. Stir in the toasted spice mixture and cook gently for 2 minutes to allow the flavors to infuse into the oil. Be careful not to burn the spices. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.

Combining Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, add the prepared nuts. Drizzle with the spiced olive oil, toss to coat evenly. Add the roasted chickpeas, honey, and lemon juice. Mix until the chickpeas and nuts are thoroughly coated.

Cooking Process

Final Roasting

Spread the nut and chickpea mixture onto the baking sheet. Roast in the preheated oven for another 15–20 minutes, until everything is crunchy and well-toasted, stirring once halfway through.

Cool and Add Fresh Herbs

Once roasting is complete, remove from the oven and let the mixture cool completely on the baking sheet. Once cooled, stir in the fresh mint and parsley.

Serving Suggestions

The Souq Spice Crunch is perfect as a snack on its own. Alternatively, it can be used to add a crunchy, flavorful note to salads, yogurt bowls, or even as a topping on soup. The combination of texture and spices makes it a versatile addition to various dishes.

Store any leftovers in an airtight container to maintain its crunch. This snack also makes a delightful homemade gift when presented in a decorative jar.

Whenever you enjoy your Souq Spice Crunch, be sure to savor the symphony of spices and the rich tapestry of textures. This culinary homage to the Middle Eastern souqs is sure to be a crowd-pleaser among friends and family.