- The filling is too dry.
- Chickpeas can be thirsty. Stir in a splash of olive oil or a little water (or reserved aquafaba) to reach a spreadable consistency.
- The dough didn't rise.
- Your yeast might be expired, or the water was too hot (killing the yeast) or too cold. Yeast thrives at around 85-95°F.
Cheesy Chickpea Calzone
Who says you need meat for a hearty calzone? This recipe proves otherwise. Chickpeas—the protein powerhouse of the Middle East—are smashed into a creamy, seasoned filling that pairs perfectly with melting cheese. Encased in a crisp, golden crust, it's a nutritious comfort food that delivers all the satisfaction of a traditional pizza turnover.
Ingredients
1
lb 2 oz
All-Purpose Flour
1
packet (0.25 oz)
Active Dry Yeast
1 1/4
cups
Lukewarm Water
1 1/2
tsp
Kosher Salt
1
tsp
Sugar
1.5
tbsp
Olive Oil
1
cup
Canned Chickpeas (rinsed and drained)
5
oz
Mozzarella Cheese (shredded)
2
cloves
Garlic (crushed)
1
tsp
Dried Oregano
1
large
Egg (for egg wash)
Shopping List (0)
Equipment Needed
- Potato Masher or Fork: To crush the chickpeas.
- Clean Kitchen Towel: For covering the dough.
- Parchment Paper: For baking.
Allergen Information
Wheat
Milk
Egg
Instructions
1
✓
Whisk together the flour, yeast, sugar, and salt. Pour in the lukewarm water and olive oil, then knead until you have a smooth, elastic dough.
Tip: Sugar acts as 'fuel' for the yeast, helping it activate faster.
2
✓
Cover and let rise in a warm, draft-free spot for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
Tip: Drafts are the enemy of yeast; keep the dough cozy.
3
✓
Roughly mash the chickpeas; you want a rustic texture, not hummus. Stir in the crushed garlic and oregano.
Tip: Leaving some chunks adds a nice bite to the filling.
4
✓
Divide the dough into 4 equal parts and roll into circles. Spread the chickpea mixture over one half and top with mozzarella.
Tip: Leave a clean border around the edge to ensure a tight seal.
5
✓
Fold the dough over, sealing the edges by crimping with a fork or twisting. Brush the tops with beaten egg.
Tip: The egg wash gives that bakery-style golden shine and keeps the crust tender.
6
✓
Bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 20 minutes, until deep golden brown.
Tip: Tap the bottom crust; if it sounds hollow, it's baked through.
Recipe FAQ
Ingredients
- 1 lb 2 oz All-Purpose Flour
- 1 packet (0.25 oz) Active Dry Yeast
- 1 1/4 cups Lukewarm Water
- 1 1/2 tsp Kosher Salt
- 1 tsp Sugar
- 1.5 tbsp Olive Oil
- 1 cup Canned Chickpeas (rinsed and drained)
- 5 oz Mozzarella Cheese (shredded)
- 2 cloves Garlic (crushed)
- 1 tsp Dried Oregano
- 1 large Egg (for egg wash)