Fried Chickpeas and Scrambled Eggs with Garlicky Greens and Spicy Yogurt

1. Prepare the Chickpeas

Begin by thoroughly drying the chickpeas with a kitchen towel or paper towels to ensure they crisp up beautifully when fried. This step is crucial as any moisture will lead to steaming instead of frying, which can prevent the desired crispy texture.

2. Create the Spice Mix

Using a mortar and pestle or a chef’s knife, gently crack the coriander and cumin seeds. Combine them with flaky sea salt and crushed red pepper flakes in a small bowl, setting the mix aside for later. This blend will infuse the chickpeas with a warm, aromatic flavor.

3. Make the Yogurt Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, minced garlic, and a pinch of kosher salt until smooth. Set the sauce aside, allowing the garlic to subtly infuse its flavor into the yogurt.

4. Fry the Chickpeas

In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the dried chickpeas with a pinch of kosher salt, cooking them for 6-8 minutes until they are golden and crispy. Halfway through, sprinkle in the spice mixture, letting it toast for an additional 1-2 minutes. The high heat will ensure the chickpeas become perfectly crispy, while the spices toast to release their full flavor. Once done, transfer the chickpeas to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.

5. Cook the Eggs and Greens

In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil and sauté the scallions and sliced garlic for 1-2 minutes. Add the kale or spinach, along with a pinch of kosher salt, and cook for another 1-2 minutes until the greens are just wilted. Pour in the beaten eggs, seasoned with salt and pepper, and stir gently for about 1 minute until the eggs are just set. It's important to not overcook the eggs; they should remain soft and creamy, complementing the crisp chickpeas.

6. Serve

To serve, spoon the scrambled eggs and greens onto a dish. Drizzle generously with the prepared yogurt sauce, then top with the crispy chickpeas. Finish with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro and any remaining spice mixture. Serve immediately with lime wedges on the side for a zesty squeeze. Enjoy this delightful medley of textures and flavors in every bite.