You might have heard about chickpeas in hummus recipe videos, but it is much more. It is considered a key ingredient in Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisines, used in preparing flour and falafel. It is also famous in Indian cuisines to prepare soups, salads, curry, stews, etc.
But what do they taste like? Well, they taste like beans since they are legumes themselves. Their nutty and earthy taste makes them suitable for all kinds of recipes- be it sandwiches, pasta, roasted chicken, etc.
Let us learn about chickpeas and how you can incorporate them into your dishes.
What Do Chickpeas Taste Like: Are They Any Good?
Chickpeas have a taste that is unusual and wonderful, with a nutty, earthy flavor. Since they are a great source of plant-based protein, vegans and vegetarians can have them to their heart’s content. Chickpeas are versatile and may be used in anything from hummus to curries. They should be soft and somewhat chewy when appropriately cooked.
They have a flavor that is highly similar to that of other legumes like lentils and beans. On the other hand, Chickpeas have a distinct taste that distinguishes them from other legumes. We recommend giving chickpeas a try if you’ve never tasted them before. You will be shocked as to how wonderful they taste!
Chickpeas are thought to have a bland flavor by some. It’s usually because they weren’t cooked correctly. Your chickpeas will be mushy and flavorless if you overcook them. On the other hand, if they are undercooked, they will be hard and challenging to eat. Cooking them till they are mushy but not too soft is the key to attaining the ideal flavor.
Health Advantages of Chickpeas
Chickpeas provide the following health benefits:
- Chickpeas are loaded with minerals, fiber, and protein. This makes them ideal for all diets.
- Fiber is a soluble bond. Chickpeas assist in reducing cholesterol levels in the body. Soluble fiber found in chickpeas has been demonstrated to lower cholesterol levels.
- Due to their lengthy digestion process, Chickpeas will keep you satiated for a longer time. This may be useful to you in cutting down unnecessary calories from snacks and other unhealthy foods you consume out of cravings.
- You can even manage your blood sugar levels with Chickpeas. They have a low glycemic index, which means you will not suffer a blood sugar spike after having them.
- Chickpeas are also high in iron, which benefits pregnant women and persons suffering from anemia.
How do you prepare chickpeas to make them taste delicious?
Simmering chickpeas until cooked but not too soft is the secret to great cooking. You can add aromatics like garlic, ginger, and spices to give them an extra taste. Chickpeas may be cooked in a pressure cooker, oven, and saucepan!
Chickpeas Prepared in a Variety of Ways
Chickpeas can be prepared in a variety of ways. Simmering them in water on the stovetop is the most frequent way. You may, however, cook them in the oven or in a pressure cooker. The one thing you have to pay heed to is that you’re using enough water while cooking Chickpeas, no matter what method you execute.
Saucepan: During simmering, cover chickpeas with water and place them in a saucepan. Cook on low heat until chickpeas are tender. About 30-45 minutes should be sufficient to cook the chickpeas. After cooking, drain any extra water.
Oven: Prepare the oven by preheating it to 190 degrees Celsius. Put them on a baking sheet and roast them for 45 minutes until they’re tender.
Pressure Cooker: Fill the pressure cooker halfway with water and add the chickpeas. Switch to high pressure and cook them for about 15 mins. Before raising the lid, ensure that the pressure in the cooker has relaxed naturally.
Author’s note: Seasonings (such as salt, pepper, and spices) should be added to taste, regardless of your chosen method. Chickpeas are a versatile food that may be utilized in a variety of recipes.
The Best Way To Make Hummus
Chickpeas, tahini, olive oil, and lemon juice are used to make hummus, a tasty and healthful dip. It’s fantastic for dipping veggies or pita bread in, and it also works well as a sandwich spread. All you need is a few essential ingredients that you can find in any supermarket to create hummus at home:
Ingredients:
- a 15-ounce can of washed and drained chickpeas
- a quarter cup of tahini
- 14 cup olive oil
- 12 teaspoon ground cumin
- 14 teaspoon lemon juice
- salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:Â
In a food processor or blender, combine all of the ingredients and mix until smooth. To thin out hummus that is too thick, add a little water at a time. Season to taste and adjust spices as necessary. Serve with veggies, pita bread, or crackers to round off the meal. Enjoy!
Homemade hummus is far superior to store-bought hummus! Any pre-packaged or pre-made hummus will not attract your liking once you try this homemade recipe.
Do Chickpeas taste like chicken?
Vegans and vegetarians often use chickpeas in their diet to fulfill their protein requirements. But this is merely due to their nutritional composition, not because chickpeas taste like chicken.
But you can substitute chickpeas in making vegan chicken nuggets, fried chicken, and salad, with the right set of condiments and spices.
FAQs
Are Chickpeas allergenic?
No, chickpeas are not allergenic. Chickpeas are a legume, and while some people have allergies to peanuts and other legumes, chickpeas are not typically allergenic. However, check with your doctor if you have any legume allergies before consuming Chickpeas.
Can you have Chickpeas if you’re on a low-carb diet?
Yes, you can have chickpeas if you’re on a low-carb diet. One cup of chickpeas contains about 15 grams of carbohydrates, so be sure to account for them in your daily carb intake. And since Chickpeas are loaded with fiber and protein, they make a great addition to a healthy diet.
Do Chickpeas contain gluten?
No, chickpeas do not contain gluten. Chickpeas are a type of legume, and while some legumes (such as soybeans and lentils) do contain gluten, chickpeas do not. Chickpeas are safe to consume even if you have gluten intolerance or allergy.
Conclusion
Now that you know all about chickpeas, it’s time to get cooking! Add Chickpeas to your meals for not only their delicious taste but also increased health benefits.
Perfecting the method of cooking the Chickpeas the correct way is not rocket science at all. Be sure to add seasonings (such as salt, pepper, and spices) to taste. Would you give Chickpeas a try after reading this article? Let us know in the comment section!
