Benin-style Chickpea Pancake

Ingredients

In this Benin-style adaptation, we incorporate traditional Beninese ingredients such as smoked fish and palm oil to infuse the pancake with the flavors of West Africa. Additionally, we enhance the spice profile by incorporating ginger, garlic, and cayenne pepper, giving the pancake a distinct Beninese twist. We alse have the original recipe for Farinata di ceci, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (240g) chickpea flour 2 cups (240g) chickpea flour
• 2 cups (470ml) water 2 cups (470ml) water
• 1 teaspoon ginger, grated 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
• 2 cloves garlic, minced 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup smoked fish, flaked 1 cup smoked fish, flaked
• 1/4 cup palm oil 1/4 cup palm oil
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 1 tomato, diced 1 tomato, diced

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 320 kcal / 1340 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 12g, 3g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 35g, 5g
• Protein: 18g
• Fiber: 8g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the chickpea flour, water, ginger, garlic, cayenne pepper, and salt. Whisk until smooth and let the batter rest for 30 minutes.
2. 2.
   Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F).
3. 3.
   Heat a skillet over medium heat and add the palm oil. Once the oil is hot, add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
4. 4.
   Add the diced tomato and cook for another 2 minutes.
5. 5.
   Stir in the flaked smoked fish and cook for an additional 3 minutes.
6. 6.
   Pour the chickpea batter into the skillet, spreading it evenly.
7. 7.
   Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the pancake is golden brown and crispy on the edges.
8. 8.
   Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh parsley and cilantro.
9. 9.
   Cut into wedges and serve warm.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Smoked fish — Ensure the fish is properly flaked and free from bones before adding it to the pancake batter.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier kick, increase the amount of cayenne pepper according to your preference.
• Serve the pancake with a side of fresh tomato salsa for an extra burst of flavor.
• If palm oil is not available, you can substitute it with vegetable oil, although it will alter the traditional Beninese taste.
• Experiment with different herbs and vegetables to personalize the pancake to your liking.
• Leftover pancake can be refrigerated and reheated in a skillet for a quick and delicious breakfast or snack.

Serving advice

Serve the Benin-style Chickpea Pancake warm as a main dish accompanied by a fresh salad or as a delightful appetizer for sharing.

Presentation advice

Present the Chickpea Pancake on a vibrant platter, garnished with fresh herbs and accompanied by a side of tomato salsa. The golden brown color and crispy edges of the pancake will entice your guests, while the aroma of the spices will awaken their taste buds.