How to Prepare Dried Chickpeas for Cooking

In this article, we will discuss how to prepare dried chickpeas for cooking. Dried chickpeas, also known as garbanzo beans, are a versatile and nutrient-rich legume that can be used in a variety of dishes. However, before cooking dried chickpeas, they need to be soaked and prepared properly to ensure they are cooked evenly and have the desired texture. So, read on to discover the step-by-step process of preparing dried chickpeas for cooking.

How to Prepare Dried Chickpeas for Cooking

Soaking Dried Chickpeas

The first step in preparing these dried beans for cooking is soaking them. Soaking the chickpeas helps to soften them and reduce the cooking time. There are two common methods for soaking dried chickpeas:

1. Overnight Soak: In a large bowl, combine one cup of dried chickpeas with enough cold water to fully submerge them. Adding baking soda will help to soften the chickpeas and reduce cooking time. Add baking soda and let the chickpeas soak overnight, or for at least eight hours.

2. Quick Soak Method: If you don’t have time to soak chickpeas overnight, you can use the quick soak method. In a large pot, bring four cups of water to a boil. Add one cup of dried chick peas and boil for two minutes. Remove the pot from the heat, cover it, and let the chickpeas soak for one hour.

Draining and Rinsing

After the chickpeas have soaked, drain the soaking cooking liquid and rinse the chickpeas thoroughly under cold water. This helps to remove any impurities and reduce the gassy properties of the chickpeas.

Cook Dried Chickpeas

Once the chickpeas have been soaked and rinsed, they are ready to be cooked. There are various methods to cook garbanzo beans, depending on your preference and available equipment. Here are three common methods for cooking chickpeas:

1. Stovetop Method: In a large instant pot, combine the soaked beans with three cups of fresh water. Add a bay leaf for additional flavor. Bring the pot to a boil and then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook the chickpeas for approximately 60-90 minutes, or until they are tender. Skim off any foam or impurities that rise to the surface during cooking.

2. Pressure Cooker Method: In a pressure cooker, combine the soaked chickpeas with three cups of fresh water. Add a bay leaf and a teaspoon of kosher salt for added flavor. Cook the chickpeas on high pressure for 20-25 minutes, depending on the size of the chickpeas. Once cooked, release the pressure naturally.

3. Slow Cooker Method: In a slow cooker, combine the soaked chickpeas with enough fresh water to fully submerge them. Cook the chickpeas on high for four to six hours, or on low for eight to ten hours, until they are tender.

Adding Flavor and Storage

For additional flavor, you can add lemon juice or other seasonings to the cooking water. This will infuse the chickpeas with a tangy taste. Once the chickpeas are cooked, drain them and rinse with fresh water.

To store cooked chickpeas, allow them to cool completely and then transfer them to an airtight container. They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to five days or freeze cooked chickpeas for long-term storage.

Final Thoughts

By following these simple steps, you can confidently prepare dried chickpeas for cooking. Soaking the chickpeas beforehand is crucial to ensure they cook evenly and have a tender, creamy texture. Whether you choose to cook them on the stovetop, in a pressure cooker, or in a slow cooker, the end result will be perfectly cooked chickpeas, ready to be used in various recipes. So, next time you reach for a can of chickpeas, consider cooking dried chickpeas from scratch for a fresher and more flavorful alternative.