Chickpea
Also called garbanzo bean
Chickpeas cook to a firm texture with a nutty taste, rich in nutrients.
Flavor profile
Aroma: nutty, earthy
Good to know
Origin: Middle East
Forms: dried, canned, flour
Storage: Store dried chickpeas in a cool, dry place for up to a year; cooked chickpeas can be refrigerated for 3-4 days.
How to use chickpea
Silky Hummus
Blending releases starch for creaminess; oil adds a silky finish.
Roasty Crisps
High heat dehydrates, crisps, and browns them for a savory crunch.
What goes with chickpea
- Cumin. Cumin's earthy warmth is the classic seasoning for chickpea's mild, nutty flavor.
- Tahini. Tahini's nutty richness and chickpea's creamy starch blend into hummus.
- Lemon. Lemon acidity lightens chickpea's dense texture.
- Coriander Seed. Coriander seed's citrus notes brighten chickpeas' earthiness.
- Couscous. Chickpeas add protein and creamy texture to couscous.
- Olive oil. Olive oil's fruity fat enriches chickpea's mild, creamy flavor.
- Parsley. Fresh parsley brightens chickpea's earthy, starchy flavor.
- Smoked Paprika. Smoked paprika adds smoky, sweet depth to mild chickpeas.
- Spinach. Spinach's mineral, slightly bitter greens balance chickpea's creamy starch.
- Yogurt. Cool, tangy yogurt contrasts with warm, spiced chickpeas.
Mistakes to avoid
- No soak leaves them hard. Tough and chewy, but not in a fun way.
- Cook too long, and you’re left with chickpea porridge.
Ideas for tonight
- Chickpea soup
- Chickpea salad
- Chickpea curry
Chickpea: questions
What does chickpea taste like?
Chickpeas cook to a firm texture with a nutty taste, rich in nutrients., with an aroma that is nutty, earthy.
What goes well with chickpea?
Chickpea pairs best with cumin, tahini, lemon, coriander seed, couscous. Cumin's earthy warmth is the classic seasoning for chickpea's mild, nutty flavor.
How do you use chickpea in cooking?
Silky Hummus: blending releases starch for creaminess; oil adds a silky finish.
How should you store chickpea?
Store dried chickpeas in a cool, dry place for up to a year; cooked chickpeas can be refrigerated for 3-4 days.
What is the most common mistake with chickpea?
No soak leaves them hard. Tough and chewy, but not in a fun way.
