Welcome back to the kitchen, where today we’re diving into an exciting, healthy twist on a beloved dessert classic flan! But this isn’t just any flan; this is a Chickpea Chocolate Flan that’s going to blow your mind. It’s creamy, it’s indulgent, and yes, it’s made with chickpeas! If you’re on a vegan diet or simply looking to make healthier dessert choices, this recipe is your golden ticket. The rich chocolate flavor is perfectly balanced by the smooth texture of the flan, making it an irresistible treat that you’d never guess was entirely plant-based.

Chickpeas are not just the star of savory dishes; they’re an incredible ingredient for desserts too. Rich in protein, fiber, and essential nutrients, chickpeas provide a substantial nutritional punch. They’re low in fat, high in fiber, and packed with vitamins and minerals like folate, iron, and magnesium. Incorporating chickpeas into your regular diet can help support heart health, improve digestion, and maintain stable blood sugar levels. So, not only is this flan delicious, but it’s also a dessert you can feel good about indulging in.

Whether you’re serving it at a dinner party or enjoying it as a snack, this Chickpea Chocolate Flan is bound to impress.

Ingredients

• EXACTLY 1 cup of soaked chickpeas (~½ cup dried chickpeas soaked overnight in the fridge)
• 3 cups of water
• A pinch of salt (optional)
• ¼ cup maple syrup (or any sweetener of your choice)
• 2 tbsp avocado oil (or other neutral oil of your choice)
• 3 tbsp of high-quality cocoa powder
• An extra drizzle of maple syrup for garnish (optional)

Directions:

1. Begin by soaking half a cup of dried chickpeas overnight in the refrigerator. This is crucial for achieving the right texture. Once soaked, rinse the chickpeas thoroughly and strain well to remove any excess water.
2. In a blender, combine EXACTLY 1 cup of soaked chickpeas with 3 cups of water and a pinch of salt. Blend until the mixture achieves a silky-smooth consistency.
3. Next, strain the blended mixture to extract the chickpea milk, which will serve as the creamy, plant-based base for your flan.
4. Transfer the chickpea milk to a saucepan, then add the maple syrup, avocado oil, and cocoa powder. Stir the ingredients until well combined.
5. Place the saucepan over low to medium heat and gently heat the mixture until it begins to simmer. Continuously stir the mixture for approximately 10 minutes, allowing it to thicken into a smooth, béchamel-like texture.
6. Once thickened, pour the mixture into a mold and refrigerate it for at least 3 hours to achieve the desired flan-like consistency.
7. Before serving, you can dust the flan with cocoa powder and drizzle it with maple syrup if you like a little extra sweetness.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Servings: 6

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):

• Energy: 144 calories
• Protein: 3.91 g
• Fat: 6.03 g
• Carbohydrates: 20.87 g
• Fiber: 2.8 g

Storage: Store any leftover flan in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Recommendations: This flan is naturally Vegan, Grain-Free, Gluten-Free, and Gelatin-Free, making it suitable for a variety of dietary needs. It’s a luxurious treat perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in. Enjoy this delectable treat as a delightful dessert or indulgent snack, perfect for sharing with friends and family.