.webp)
Classic Socca (Savory Chickpea Pancake)
Crispy golden edges with a tender, almost custardy center — this rustic chickpea pancake from Nice is deceptively simple. Just chickpea flour, water, olive oil, and salt transform into something magical in a screaming-hot oven. Perfect torn into pieces as an appetizer or served alongside a crisp salad.
For 6 servings
- prep · ~10 min
Preheat the oven and skillet.
Place a 12-inch cast iron skillet on the middle rack and preheat the oven to 230°C (450°F). The pan must get screaming hot for authentic crispy edges.
- mix · ~7 min
Whisk together the batter.
1.In a medium bowl, whisk together 1.5 cups chickpea flour, 0.5 tsp salt, 0.5 tsp ground cumin, and 1 pinch black pepper.2.Slowly pour in 1.75 cups room temperature water while whisking continuously to avoid lumps.3.Whisk in 2 tbsp olive oil and continue mixing until the batter is completely smooth, like thin pancake batter.4.Let the batter rest for 5 minutes while the oven finishes heating.TIPResting even briefly allows the chickpea flour to fully hydrate, creating a silkier batter. - prep · ~1 min
Carefully grease the hot skillet.
Using a thick oven mitt, carefully remove the screaming-hot skillet from the oven. Add the remaining 1 tbsp olive oil and swirl to coat the entire surface evenly. The oil should shimmer almost immediately.
TIPWork fast — you want the pan back in the oven before it loses heat. - bake · ~1 min
Pour the batter and add toppings.
1.Quickly pour the batter into the hot, oiled skillet. It should sizzle gently on contact.2.Scatter the thinly sliced red onion and chopped rosemary evenly over the surface of the batter.3.Immediately return the skillet to the oven on the middle rack.TIPThe sizzle on contact is the secret to that lacy, crispy bottom crust. - bake · ~13 min
Bake until golden and blistered.
Bake for 10 to 14 minutes, or until the socca is deeply golden with blistered brown spots and the edges are pulling away from the sides of the pan. For extra char on top, switch the oven to broil for the final 1 to 2 minutes.
TIPDon't underbake — the dark blistered spots carry the deep, nutty flavor. - garnish · ~2 min
Finish and serve immediately.
1.Remove the skillet from the oven and slide the socca onto a cutting board.2.Sprinkle with a pinch of flaky sea salt and a generous crack of black pepper.3.Cut into 6 wedges and serve right away while the edges are still crackling-crisp.TIPSocca waits for no one — it loses its crispness within minutes. Serve the moment it's cut.
What to keep in mind.
6 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Preheat the cast iron skillet for at least 15 minutes to ensure it's screaming hot for a crispy crust.
- 2Let the batter rest for 5 minutes; this hydrates the chickpea flour for a silky, lump-free texture.
- 3Work quickly when pouring batter into the hot skillet to maintain maximum pan heat.
- 4Use a generous amount of olive oil in the hot pan to achieve a lacy, golden-brown bottom.
- 5Don't skip the broiler step for 1-2 minutes — it creates deep, nutty browned spots on top.
- 6Serve socca immediately after cutting; it loses crispness rapidly as it cools.
Adapt it for your goals.
Gluten-free
Use certified gluten-free chickpea flour; socca is naturally gluten-free, perfect for celiac or gluten-sensitive diners.
veganVegan
This recipe is already vegan — skip optional cheese toppings and enjoy as is, or add roasted vegetables for a heartier meal.
herb swapHerb-swap
Replace rosemary with fresh thyme, oregano, or za'atar for a different aromatic profile.
topping heavyTopping-heavy
Add thinly sliced cherry tomatoes, olives, or caramelized onions before baking for a more substantial appetizer.
spicySpicy
Add 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne to the batter for a gentle heat that complements the chickpea flavor.
Why this is on our healthy list.
High in Plant Protein
Chickpea flour is a rich source of plant-based protein, making socca a satisfying option for vegetarian and vegan meals.
Rich in Dietary Fiber
Chickpeas provide soluble fiber that supports digestive health and helps maintain steady blood sugar levels.
Naturally Gluten-Free
Made entirely from chickpea flour, this socca is perfect for those avoiding gluten without sacrificing texture or flavor.
Good Source of Iron
Chickpea flour contains non-heme iron, which supports oxygen transport in the body; pair with vitamin C (e.g., a side salad) for better absorption.
Frequently asked questions
Cast iron is ideal for its heat retention, but a heavy-duty oven-safe skillet or baking dish works; preheat it thoroughly for best results.
