How To Cook Dry Chickpeas In Instant Pot

Mastering the Art of Cooking Dry Chickpeas in the Instant Pot

Chickpeas, also known as garbanzo beans, are a versatile legume that can be transformed into a variety of delicious dishes. From hearty soups and stews to crispy snacks and creamy hummus, chickpeas are a pantry staple for many home cooks. While canned chickpeas are convenient, cooking them from dry is not only cost-effective but also allows you to customize the flavor and texture to suit your preferences. In this guide, we’ll show you how to elevate your cooking game by mastering the art of cooking dry chickpeas in the Instant Pot.

Why Cook Chickpeas in the Instant Pot?

The Instant Pot has revolutionized home cooking by reducing cooking times and simplifying the process. When it comes to chickpeas, the Instant Pot is a game-changer. Here are a few reasons why:

• Time-saving: Unlike stovetop cooking methods that require soaking and prolong boiling, the Instant Pot significantly reduces the cooking time of chickpeas. You can have perfectly cooked chickpeas in under an hour.
• No monitoring required: Once you set the Instant Pot, you can walk away and let it do its magic. There’s no need to stand by for hours, stirring and checking for doneness.
• Foolproof results: With precise temperature control, the Instant Pot ensures consistent and evenly cooked chickpeas every time, eliminating the risk of undercooked or mushy beans.

Step-by-Step Guide to Cooking Dry Chickpeas in the Instant Pot

Follow these simple steps to achieve perfectly tender and flavorful chickpeas every time:

1. Rinse and soak: Start by rinsing one cup of dry chickpeas under cold water to remove any dust or dirt. Then, transfer them to a bowl and cover with water. Soak them for at least 4 hours or overnight. This helps soften the chickpeas and reduces cooking time.
2. Drain and rinse: After the soaking period, drain the water and rinse the chickpeas once again. This step helps eliminate any residual impurities and improves the overall taste and texture of the chickpeas.
3. Add to the Instant Pot: Place the rinsed chickpeas in the Instant Pot and cover them with enough water or vegetable broth to ensure they are fully submerged. For added flavor, you can also throw in some garlic cloves, bay leaves, or spices like cumin and paprika.
4. Pressure cook: Secure the Instant Pot lid and set the pressure valve to the sealing position. Select the “Pressure Cook” mode and set the timer to 25 minutes for firm chickpeas or 30 minutes for softer ones.
5. Natural release: Once the timer goes off, allow the Instant Pot to release pressure naturally for at least 15 minutes. This helps the chickpeas retain their shape and prevents them from turning mushy.
6. Drain and enjoy: Carefully drain the cooked chickpeas and rinse them with cold water to stop the cooking process. Your tender and flavorful chickpeas are now ready to be used in your favorite recipes or stored in the refrigerator for future use.

Now that you have mastered the art of cooking dry chickpeas in the Instant Pot, the possibilities are endless. From vibrant salads and comforting curries to crunchy roasted snacks, you can now enjoy the deliciousness and versatility of homemade chickpeas in no time. So go ahead, grab your Instant Pot, and let the cooking adventure begin!