If there’s one ingredient that deserves a cape and a “V” emblem, it’s the humble chickpea. This unsung hero of the plant kingdom is a mighty vegan superfood, packed with protein, fiber, calcium, iron, and more. It’s also versatile, able to take on different roles in the kitchen. Whether you want a creamy spread, a hearty main dish, or a decadent dessert, chickpeas have got you covered. In this article, we’ll explore the chickpea’s powers and unlock some delicious vegan recipes for you to try.
Nutritional Benefits of Chickpeas
First, let’s talk about why chickpeas are so awesome. They are:
- A good source of protein, with about 15 grams per cup
- High in fiber, with about 12 grams per cup
- Rich in vitamins and minerals, including folate, iron, and magnesium
- Gluten-free and allergen-friendly
Chickpeas come in different forms, including whole, split, canned, and dried. Canned chickpeas are convenient for quick meals, while dried ones can be cooked for a more authentic texture. For our recipes, we’ll use both canned and cooked chickpeas.
Texture and Flavor Profiles
Chickpeas have a nice texture: tender but still slightly firm. They absorb flavors well, making them a great vegan substitution for dairy and meat products. For instance, we’ll learn how to make vegan cheese from chickpeas.
Chickpea-Based Dips and Spreads
Chickpeas are perfect for making dips and spreads. Their creamy texture makes them a popular base for vegan recipes. Here are some chickpea-based dips you’ll love:
- Creamy Chickpea Hummus: The classic chickpea dip that everyone knows and loves. It’s easy to make and can be flavored with different ingredients.
- Chickpea-Based Cheese Alternatives: Yes, chickpeas can be made into vegan cheese. You can make a simple cashew-chickpea cheese spread or go for a fancier baked chickpea “feta.”
Stay tuned for these recipes!
Chickpea-Centered Main Dishes
Chickpeas can also be the star of the show. Here are some delicious chickpea-centered main dishes:
- Chickpea Curry: A fragrant and flavorful dish made with aromatic spices and coconut milk. Serve it with rice, naan bread, or both.
- Chickpea Meatballs or Burgers: You can make chickpea meatballs or burgers by mashing chickpeas and adding binders like breadcrumbs or oats. They work great for Italian-style and Mexican-style dishes.
- Chickpea Stew or Chili: A hearty and satisfying meal perfect for cold weather. Top it with your favorite toppings like avocado, sour cream, or vegan cheese.
These recipes are so good, you won’t miss the meat!
Chickpea Desserts and Baked Goods
Chickpeas can even help you make vegan desserts. Here are some creative ways to use chickpeas in sweet treats:
- Chickpea Flour in Baking: Chickpea flour, also known as besan or gram flour, is a staple in Indian and Mediterranean cuisine. It’s often used to make pancakes and waffles. Since it’s gluten-free, it’s a great alternative for those with gluten sensitivities.
- Chickpea-Based Desserts: Chickpeas can be used to make desserts like blondies, brownies, and even a chickpea mousse or pudding.
Who knew chickpeas could be so sweet?
Tips for Cooking and Preparing Chickpeas
Now that you know how to use chickpeas in various dishes, let me share some tips for cooking and preparing chickpeas:
- When using canned chickpeas, drain and rinse them before using to get rid of excess sodium.
- If you prefer using dried chickpeas, soak them overnight and then simmer them with some salt until tender. You can also use an Instant Pot to speed up the process.
By the end of this article, you’ll be a chickpea superhero, ready to save the day with delicious and nutritious vegan recipes.
Stay tuned for the chickpea recipes!
In the meantime, give these hummus recipes a try to get started with chickpeas.
Hummus Recipe: Creamy Chickpea Hummus
Ingredients:
- 2 cans of chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1/4 cup of tahini
- 1/4 cup of lemon juice
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1/3 cup of olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
- In a food processor, combine chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, garlic, and salt.
- Process until smooth, scraping down the sides as needed.
- With the motor running, slowly add olive oil through the feed tube until the desired consistency is reached.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper, if needed.
Serve your hummus with pita bread, veggies, or crackers. Enjoy!