Soft & Smushable Roasted Chickpeas

Unlike crunchy adult versions, these chickpeas are roasted at a lower heat to stay soft and safe. They are lightly seasoned and perfect for practicing the pincer grasp while providing essential iron and fiber.
Ingredients
- 1 cup Cooked Chickpeas
- 1 tablespoon Extra Virgin Olive Oil
- 0.25 teaspoon Ground Cumin
- 1 pinch Mild Paprika
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 160°C (325°F). A lower temperature ensures the chickpeas stay soft inside rather than becoming hard and crunchy.
- If using canned chickpeas, rinse them thoroughly to remove excess salt. If using dried, ensure they are soaked overnight and boiled until very tender.
- Safety Step: Gently pat the chickpeas with a clean towel to remove the outer clear skins. These skins can sometimes be a gag trigger for toddlers.
- Place the chickpeas in a bowl and toss with extra virgin olive oil, cumin, and a tiny pinch of mild paprika.
- Spread the chickpeas in a single layer on a baking tray lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes. Do not let them brown or become crispy.
- Safety Step: Remove one chickpea and test it by pressing it between two fingers. It should smush easily with minimal pressure. If it feels firm, it is not safe for a toddler.
- Let them cool completely before serving.
- Supervise your toddler closely and serve only 2-3 at a time to prevent 'shoveling' (putting too many in the mouth at once).
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