How To Cook Dried Chickpeas Quick

Unlocking the Secrets to Quick and Delicious Dried Chickpeas

Chickpeas, also known as garbanzo beans, are not only versatile and packed with nutrients, but they are also incredibly delicious. Cooking dried chickpeas may seem time-consuming and daunting, but with a few simple tricks, you can have a batch of tender and flavorful chickpeas in no time. In this article, we will share our secrets to cooking dried chickpeas quickly and efficiently.

Why Cook Dried Chickpeas Instead of Using Canned Ones?

While canned chickpeas are convenient, there are several reasons why cooking dried chickpeas from scratch is worth the effort:

• Cost-effective: Dried chickpeas are more affordable and budget-friendly than their canned counterparts.
• Enhanced Flavor: Cooking dried chickpeas allows you to infuse them with your choice of herbs, spices, and seasonings, resulting in a superior flavor profile compared to canned varieties.
• Health Benefits: Dried chickpeas retain more nutrients and have no added preservatives or sodium, making them a healthier option.

Step-by-Step Guide to Quick Dried Chickpeas

Follow these simple steps to shave off hours from the traditional cooking time of dried chickpeas:

1. Rinse and Sort

Rinse the dried chickpeas under cold water to remove any dirt or debris. Then, sort through the chickpeas and remove any stones or damaged beans that may have slipped through the packaging process.

2. Quick Soak Method

The traditional way to cook dried chickpeas involves soaking them overnight. However, there’s a quick soak method that reduces the soaking time to just one hour:

1. In a large pot, add the rinsed chickpeas and cover them with water.
2. Bring the water to a boil and let it cook for 1 minute.
3. Remove the pot from heat, cover it, and let the chickpeas soak for 1 hour.

3. Cooking the Chickpeas

After the quick soak, drain the soaking water and rinse the chickpeas once again. Now, you’re ready to cook them:

1. In a large pot or pressure cooker, add the soaked chickpeas and cover them with fresh water or vegetable broth.
2. For stovetop cooking, bring the water to a boil over high heat, then reduce it to low and let the chickpeas simmer for 1 to 1.5 hours until they are tender.
3. For pressure cooking, follow the manufacturer’s instructions to cook the chickpeas in less time. Typically, it takes around 20-30 minutes under pressure to achieve perfectly cooked chickpeas.

4. Seasoning and Final Touches

Once the chickpeas are cooked to your desired tenderness, drain them and season them with salt and any other desired spices or herbs. You can now use these delicious chickpeas in a variety of dishes or store them in the refrigerator for later use.

Get Creative with Your Cooked Chickpeas

Now that you have mastered the art of cooking dried chickpeas quickly, let your culinary creativity shine. Here are a few mouthwatering ways to enjoy your cooked chickpeas:

• Hummus: Blend the chickpeas with tahini, garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil for a creamy and nutritious dip.
• Roasted Snack: Toss the chickpeas with olive oil and your favorite seasonings, then roast them in the oven until crispy for a tasty and satisfying snack.
• Salads: Add chickpeas to your favorite salads for an extra dose of protein and fiber.
• Curries and Stews: Cooked chickpeas work beautifully in vegetarian curries, hearty stews, or even as a meat substitute in dishes like chickpea tikka masala.

So, the next time you crave the deliciousness of chickpeas, skip the canned variety and try your hand at cooking dried chickpeas quick. With these tips and tricks, you’ll be savoring flavorful and tender chickpeas in a fraction of the usual cooking time.