French fries get light and fluffy with chickpeas and yogurt.

Let's face it, although we all love french fries, it would be nicer to have a lighter, airier and admittedly sexier update on a normally greasy, heavy treat.

>>RELATED: Portobello Frites

Luckily for you, these chickpea fries meet all the requirements: they fry up golden and perfect, and are all at once puffy, crispy, and tender. The preparation is also quick and easy -- simply make a polenta-esque mixture of chickpea flour and water, then cool it on a baking sheet, slice and fry. They are fantastic on their own, but when dunked in their cool yogurt-mint sauce, they become completely irresistible.

Chickpea Fries with Yogurt Dipping Sauce by Justforlicks

Serves 10 to 12

Chickpea Fries

4 cups water

2 cups chickpea flour

1 tablespoon kosher salt

1 teaspoon cumin (optional)

2 cups vegetable oil

Sumac, for dusting

1. Place the water in a pot with the salt and bring to a boil. Add the cumin to the chickpea flour. Pour into the water and whisk vigorously until all of the water is absorbed and there are no lumps, about 2-3 minutes. You are looking for the consistency of polenta. Take the pot off the heat. There should be plenty of salt but now is the time to taste and make sure. These fries are all about the salt.

2. Line a baking sheet with a silpat or wax paper. Pour the chickpea mixture onto the baking sheet and spread evenly. Set aside to firm for about 30 minutes.

3. After thirty minutes, take a knife and gently cut the mixture into rectangular pieces. Use your judgement as to the size.

4. Add the vegetable oil to a deep pan. Turn the heat to medium high. Once the oil is hot enough (you will get a nice sizzle) add some fries (about 8 at a time) and cook until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside. Take them out and place on a paper towel lined plate. Sprinkle lightly with sumac. Transfer to dish and serve immediately.

Yogurt Mint Dipping Sauce

2/3 cups yogurt (thin -- not Greek style)

1 clove garlic, small and chopped fine

1 1/2 tablespoon mint, chopped fine

1/8 teaspoon kosher salt

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1. Combine all ingredients and mix well.

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Photo by James Ransom

This recipe originally appeared on Food52.com: Chickpea Fries with Yogurt Dipping Sauce