Looking for a nutritious snack that doesn’t compromise on taste? Chickpea Tofu Tikki is a protein-packed, fiber-rich vegetarian snack that combines the goodness of boiled chickpeas, grated potatoes, and tofu. It’s a healthier take on traditional tikkis and perfect for those who enjoy air-fried, freezer-friendly snacks with bold Indian flavours.
This chickpea tofu tikki uses everyday ingredients like mint, ginger-garlic paste, and coriander powder to create a delightful snack that works for tea-time, party platters, or even as burger patties.

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How to make protein-rich chickpea tofu patties? (Recipe video)
Ingredients
You’ll need the following ingredients to make vegan chickpea patties:
- boiled chickpeas / can of chickpeas
- tofu, crumbled or grated
- grated potatoes (about 2 medium)
- potato, mashed (helps bind the mixture)
- mint leaves, finely chopped
- ginger-garlic paste
- coriander powder
- salt (adjust to taste)
- cooking spray
refer to recipe card.
Instructions
- In a food processor, add boiled chickpeas, tofu, ginger-garlic paste, dried herbs, and seasonings. Blend to form a coarse mixture.
2. Transfer the mixture to a bowl and add grated or mashed boiled potatoes. Combine everything thoroughly until you get a dough-like consistency.
3. Divide the mixture into equal portions. Roll each portion into a ball and flatten slightly to form small patties or tikkis.
4. Place the shaped patties on a parchment-lined tray and brush or spray a little oil on both sides. This helps them turn crispy when air-fried. Let the tikkis rest in the freezer for 3–4 hours. This firms them up, making them easier to handle and air fry.
5.Preheat air fryer to 180°C for 5 minutes. Arrange the frozen patties in a single layer on a parchment-lined air fryer basket.
6. Air fry for 20–22 minutes, flipping halfway. Brush with oil for an extra crisp finish. Tikkis are ready when golden brown and crispy on the outside.
Related recipes
air fryer chickpea tofu fritters recipe
Equipment
- Air fryer
- oil spray
- large bowl
- parchment paper / baking sheet
- tray
Ingredients
- 1.5 cup chickpeas boiled
- 2 medium potatoes = 150 gm grated potatoes
- 1 potato mashed
- 150 gm firm tofu
- ½ tablespoon salt
- 1 tablespoon mint
- 1 teaspoon coriander powder
- 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
- oil spray
Instructions
- Prepare the Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine boiled chickpeas, grated potatoes, mashed potato, tofu, mint leaves, ginger-garlic paste, coriander powder, and salt.
- Mash & Mix : Use a fork or potato masher to mash the chickpeas slightly while mixing everything until well combined and cohesive.Shape the cutlets. Divide the mixture into equal portions and shape into small patties.
- Freeze to Firm Up: Place the tikkis on a lined tray, freeze for 3–4 hours for better shape retention during air frying.
- Air Fry the Tikkis: Preheat air fryer to 180°C | 355 ℉ for 5 mins. Place the tikkis in the basket and air fry for 20–22 minutes, flipping once halfway, until golden and crispy.
- Serve these hot crispy chickpea tofu fritters for a protein rich recipe.
Video
Variations & Substitutions
- Spicy Kick: Add chopped green chilies or red chilli flakes for heat. For more desi flavors, add some lemon juice, black pepper, onion powder, garlic powder and curry powder to your chickpea cakes for extra spice kick.
- Add Veggies: Include grated carrots, beets, or spinach for added nutrition and color. Use frozen veggies for the same to expedite the process.
- Stuffed Tikkis: Insert a cube of mozzarella cheese or paneer or a spicy tahini center for a surprise filling.
- Tofu Alternatives: Use paneer or mashed cooked lentils if firm tofu isn’t available.
- Potatoes: Sweet potatoes or cooked raw bananas can be used in place of regular potatoes.
- You can also add some panko breadcrumbs to chickpea patty mixture for extra crisp texture.
- Mint Leaves: Swap with coriander leaves or fresh parsley or add both herbs for layered flavor.
- If you do not own an air fryer yet, use an oven , it will take 5 minutes extra. You can also make these easy chickpea patties in a large skillet or frying pan.
Serving suggestion: There are many great recipes you can make using this veggie patties. Use this chickpea patty recipe to serve as a salad, wrap or use your favorite toppings to make chickpea veggie burgers. Serve with bbq sauce or tomato ketchup for quick meals.
FAQs
Yes! Just rinse and drain them well before using.
Yes—freezing for 3–4 hours helps the tikkis hold their shape and become crisp during air frying.
Absolutely. Use a non-stick pan with minimal oil and cook over medium heat until both sides are golden
Yes! Store the uncooked tikkis in an airtight container in the freezer. Air fry straight from frozen when ready.
Conclusion
Chickpea Tofu Tikki is everything a healthy snack should be—crispy, flavorful, protein-rich, and incredibly satisfying. This cutlet hits the perfect balance of taste and nutrition. It’s easy to make, freezer-friendly, and air-fryer approved.
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