Name: Indian Spiced Chickpea Flatbread (Socca)
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: PT-487482H16M35S
Total time: 2 h 30 min
Cuisine: Indian Fusion
Ingredients: 1 cup chickpea (garbanzo bean) flour; 1 cup water; 3 tbsp + 2 tsp extra virgin olive oil, divided; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp ground coriander; 1/4 tsp ground turmeric; 1/8–1/4 tsp cayenne pepper; 1/2 medium yellow onion, chopped; 1/3 cup diced tomato; 1 garlic clove, minced; 2 tbsp minced cilantro

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Indian Spiced Chickpea Flatbread, also known as Socca, is a naturally gluten-free flatbread made from chickpea flour and infused with warm Indian spices. Baked under the broiler for a charred, crisp finish, this recipe blends the rustic charm of Mediterranean socca with the vibrant flavors of coriander, turmeric, cayenne, and fresh cilantro.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Naturally gluten-free and vegan.
Packed with plant-based protein from chickpea flour.
Crispy edges with a tender, flavorful center.
Infused with Indian-inspired spices for a unique twist.
Great as a snack, appetizer, or base for toppings.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 cup chickpea (garbanzo bean) flour
1 cup water
3 tablespoons + 2 teaspoons extra virgin olive oil, divided
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
1/4 teaspoon ground turmeric
1/8–1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1/2 medium yellow onion, chopped
1/3 cup diced tomato
1 garlic clove, minced
2 tablespoons minced cilantro

Directions

In a medium bowl, whisk together chickpea flour, water, 1 tablespoon plus 1 teaspoon olive oil, salt, coriander, and turmeric. Cover and let rest at room temperature for at least 2 hours.
Preheat the broiler, placing the rack 7–8 inches from the heating element.
Heat 1 teaspoon olive oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion and cook for about 2 minutes until starting to brown. Stir in tomato and cook for 3 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds. Stir this mixture into the chickpea batter.
Place a 10-inch cast iron skillet in the oven to preheat for 5 minutes.
Using oven mitts, carefully remove skillet from oven. Add 1 tablespoon olive oil and swirl to coat.
Pour in half the batter, swirling to cover the bottom evenly.
Broil for 4–6 minutes until the top and edges are charred and blistered.
Transfer to a cutting board, cut into 8 wedges, garnish with cilantro, and serve.
Repeat with remaining oil, batter, and cilantro.

Servings and timing

Servings: 16 wedges (8 per flatbread)
Prep time: 15 minutes (plus 2 hours resting)
Cook time: 12–15 minutes total
Total time: 2 hours 30 minutes (including rest)

Variations

Add chopped spinach or kale to the batter for extra greens.
Top with yogurt sauce and pomegranate seeds for a fresh finish.
Replace coriander with garam masala for a deeper spice profile.
Skip cayenne for a milder flavor.
Serve with hummus, chutney, or roasted vegetables.

Storage/Reheating

Store cooled flatbread in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in the oven at 350°F until warm.
Best enjoyed fresh for maximum crispiness.

FAQs

What is socca?

Socca is a chickpea flour flatbread from the Mediterranean, here given an Indian spice twist.

Can I skip the 2-hour batter rest?

Resting improves texture and flavor, but you can cook it right away in a pinch.

Can I make this without a cast iron skillet?

Yes, use an oven-safe skillet, but cast iron gives the best crust.

Is chickpea flour the same as besan?

Yes, they are essentially the same, though besan is sometimes ground finer.

Can I make it less spicy?

Yes, reduce or omit cayenne pepper.

Is it vegan?

Yes, the recipe contains no animal products.

Can I freeze it?

Yes, freeze slices in a single layer, then reheat in the oven.

What can I serve with this?

It pairs well with soups, curries, salads, or as a wrap for grilled vegetables.

Can I add cheese?

Yes, sprinkle shredded cheese on top after broiling for extra richness.

Does it taste like bread?

It’s more like a savory pancake with a slightly nutty, earthy flavor from chickpea flour.

Conclusion

Indian Spiced Chickpea Flatbread is a flavorful, protein-rich dish that’s both easy to make and versatile. Whether served as a snack, appetizer, or alongside a meal, its crispy edges, warm spices, and fresh cilantro garnish make it an irresistible, wholesome choice.