Crispy Chickpea Shawarma Wrap

Name: Crispy Chickpea Shawarma Wrap
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 wraps
Ingredients: 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper, to taste; 4 large tortillas or pita breads; Mixed greens and diced vegetables (tomatoes, cucumbers, etc.); 1/4 cup tahini; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; 1 garlic clove, minced; Water, to thin; Salt, to taste

Highlighted under: World Cuisine Recipes

I absolutely love making these Crispy Chickpea Shawarma Wraps! Each bite is packed with flavor, crunch, and a satisfying texture that keeps me coming back for more. The combination of spices transforms simple chickpeas into a dish that feels gourmet yet is so easy to prepare. I often serve these wraps for lunch or dinner, and they never fail to impress. Paired with homemade tahini sauce and fresh veggies, they're the perfect meal for anyone craving something a bit different but undeniably delicious.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-13T12:33:30.807Z

When I first tried making shawarma at home, I never imagined chickpeas would be my go-to protein. The method of roasting them really enhances their texture, making them crispy and packed with flavor. Using a blend of spices like cumin and paprika gives them a kick that transports you to the streets of the Middle East!

I've experimented with various toppings and sauces, but what really elevated this dish was the creamy tahini dressing. It balances the spices beautifully and adds a rich layer that complements the crispiness of the chickpeas. Trust me, once you taste this wrap, you'll be hooked!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Perfectly crispy chickpeas with a flavorful spice mix
Fresh vegetables and creamy tahini sauce for balanced flavors
Quick and easy to assemble, making it perfect for weeknight dinners

      

Mastering the Chickpea Texture

Achieving the perfect crispy chickpeas is all about moisture control. Ensure that your canned chickpeas are thoroughly drained and rinsed to remove excess starch and sodium, which can prevent optimal crispiness. Pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel to absorb as much moisture as possible before tossing them with olive oil and spices. This technique helps the chickpeas roast better, leading to a satisfying crunch that teams up beautifully with fresh veggies in the wrap.

Another tip for maximizing texture is to spread the chickpeas out in a single layer on your baking sheet. If they’re overcrowded, they steam and become mushy instead of crispy. If you're using an air fryer, the same rule applies: give them space to ensure that hot air circulates evenly. Keep an eye on them as they roast; each oven is different, and you may want to adjust your cooking time slightly based on how golden brown the chickpeas get.

The Versatility of Tahini Sauce

Tahini sauce is a fantastic complement to these wraps, but don't hesitate to customize it! If you enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of cayenne or some diced jalapeños to the sauce. For a richer flavor, a drizzle of maple syrup or honey can balance the nuttiness of the tahini. The key here is adjusting to your taste—start with the basic recipe and modify until it reflects your flavor preference.

Storing tahini sauce is effortless, too. You can prepare it in advance and keep it in the fridge for up to a week. Just make sure to give it a good stir before using, as the tahini can separate over time. If you feel it's too thick after refrigerating, simply whisk in a little more water to reach your desired consistency—this sauce should be smooth and pourable for perfect drizzling over your wraps.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

While this recipe is fantastic as is, feel free to explore different types of wraps or add more variety to your vegetables. Consider using whole grain or gluten-free tortillas for those with dietary restrictions. For a Mediterranean touch, try adding olives, roasted red peppers, or even feta cheese to enhance flavor profiles. Each of these additions can elevate the taste and texture of your wraps, making them even more delightful.

If you're looking to prep meals for the week, these wraps store well. After assembling, you can wrap them tightly in parchment paper or foil and refrigerate for up to three days. Just remember to keep the tahini sauce separate until you’re ready to eat—this keeps everything fresh and crispy. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat for a couple of minutes or enjoy them cold for a handy meal on the go.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create your Crispy Chickpea Shawarma Wraps:

For the Wraps

1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper, to taste
4 large tortillas or pita breads
Mixed greens and diced vegetables (tomatoes, cucumbers, etc.)

For the Tahini Sauce

1/4 cup tahini
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1 garlic clove, minced
Water, to thin
Salt, to taste

Assemble the ingredients and let's get cooking!

Instructions

Prepare the Chickpeas

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a bowl, toss the drained chickpeas with olive oil, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

Roast the Chickpeas

Spread the seasoned chickpeas on a baking sheet in a single layer and roast for about 20 minutes until crispy, stirring halfway through.

Make the Tahini Sauce

While the chickpeas are roasting, mix tahini, lemon juice, minced garlic, and a pinch of salt in a bowl. Add water gradually until you reach your desired consistency.

Assemble the Wraps

Once the chickpeas are ready, layer them on your tortilla or pita along with mixed greens, diced vegetables, and a generous drizzle of tahini sauce.

Enjoy!

Wrap it up tightly and enjoy your homemade Crispy Chickpea Shawarma Wrap!

Serve your wraps immediately and enjoy the burst of flavors!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, let the roasted chickpeas sit for a few minutes before assembling your wrap. This will help them cool slightly and become even crunchier. Feel free to add your favorite toppings, like pickles or avocado, for an extra twist!

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're out of chickpeas, white beans or lentils can be great substitutes. They provide similar protein content and can capture the delicious spices used in this recipe. For a nut-free option, you can make the tahini sauce with sunflower seed butter instead, which still offers a creamy texture and nutty flavor.

When it comes to the spices, feel free to experiment according to your taste. If you favor other flavors, try adding curry powder or garam masala instead of the traditional spices. Each variation can lend a unique twist to your wraps, making them even more enjoyable.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

One common issue when roasting chickpeas is the uneven cooking that can lead to some being crunchy while others are soft. To prevent this, stir the chickpeas halfway through roasting to ensure they cook evenly. Additionally, if your chickpeas aren’t getting crispy enough, consider increasing the cooking time by 5 to 10 minutes, watching them closely towards the end.

If your tahini sauce ends up too runny, you can thicken it by adding a little more tahini. Alternatively, if it's too thick, gradually whisk in more water until it reaches your desired consistency. Remember, the ideal tahini sauce should be smooth and able to coat the back of a spoon, so don’t rush the adjustments!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use dried chickpeas instead of canned?

Yes, you can use dried chickpeas! Just be sure to soak and cook them beforehand.

→ What can I substitute for tahini?

If you're out of tahini, you can use almond butter or even plain yogurt for a different flavor.

→ How long can I store the leftovers?

Leftover chickpeas can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

→ Can I make these wraps vegan?

Yes, all ingredients used are vegan-friendly, making this dish suitable for a vegan diet.