It’s 2023 and the world is a much different place. But one thing that hasn’t changed is the deliciousness of the humble legume, the chickpea. Whether you’re a vegan, vegetarian, or just someone looking to add some more plant-based protein to their diet, chickpeas are a great choice. But how do you cook them?
Well, if you’re new to cooking chickpeas, it’s important to know that you need to soak them before cooking. Soaking chickpeas helps to soften them, making them easier to cook. But how do you soak them, and how long do they need to soak for? Read on to find out!
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Soaking Chickpeas Before Cooking
When it comes to soaking chickpeas, there are two methods you can use – either overnight soaking or quick soaking. Overnight soaking is the most popular method, as it allows the chickpeas to soak up more water, making them softer and easier to cook. The general rule of thumb for overnight soaking is to use four parts water to one part chickpeas. So, if you’re using one cup of chickpeas, you’ll need four cups of water.
Once you’ve added the chickpeas and water to a large bowl, cover the bowl with a cloth or a lid and leave it in a cool, dark place overnight. The next morning, drain the water and rinse the chickpeas until the water runs clear. Now your chickpeas are ready to be cooked!
Quick Soaking Chickpeas
If you don’t have time to soak your chickpeas overnight, you can use the quick-soak method. This method involves bringing the chickpeas and water to a boil, then reducing the heat and simmering for 10 minutes. After 10 minutes, turn off the heat and let the chickpeas sit for an hour. Once the hour is up, drain the water and rinse the chickpeas until the water runs clear. Now your chickpeas are ready to be cooked!
Cooking Chickpeas After Soaking
Once your chickpeas are soaked, it’s time to cook them! For best results, you should cook the chickpeas in a pot of boiling water. Bring the water to a boil, then add the chickpeas and reduce the heat. Simmer the chickpeas for 45 minutes to an hour, or until they are tender and cooked through.
Once the chickpeas are cooked, drain the water and transfer the chickpeas to a bowl. You can then season the chickpeas with salt, pepper, and any other herbs and spices you like. Now your chickpeas are ready to be used in any recipe, from hummus to curries to salads!
Using Soaked Chickpeas in Recipes
Soaked and cooked chickpeas can be used in a variety of recipes, from savory dishes to sweet treats. Try adding them to your favorite salads, soups, curries, and stews. You can also use them to make your own homemade hummus or falafel. Or, if you’re feeling adventurous, try using soaked chickpeas to make vegan cheesecake or vegan brownies! The possibilities are endless.
Tips For Cooking Chickpeas
When it comes to cooking chickpeas, there are a few tips and tricks you should keep in mind. First, always make sure to rinse the chickpeas thoroughly before cooking them. This will help remove any dirt or debris that may be on the chickpeas. Second, add a pinch of baking soda to the boiling water when cooking the chickpeas. This will help to soften them and make them easier to digest. Finally, be sure not to overcook the chickpeas, as they can become mushy and difficult to work with.
Conclusion
Soaking and cooking chickpeas is a simple process that yields delicious results. So don’t be afraid to give it a try! Whether you’re using them in a savory dish or a sweet treat, soaked and cooked chickpeas make a great addition to any meal. And just remember, as the old saying goes: “A chickpea a day keeps the doctor away!”
