Chickpeas – everything you need to know about this wonderful plant

Chickpeas, also known as common chickpeas, are a legume that have been popular in the cuisine of many cultures for centuries.Its rich content of nutrients, versatile use and unique taste make it irreplaceable in the diet of many people around the world.In this article, we will take a closer look at chickpeas, discuss their varieties, nutritional values, properties, storage and preparation methods, and share recipes for healthy dishes using them.

Chickpeas – characteristics and varieties

Chickpeas are a legume that belongs to the legume family.It is characterized by stems ranging from 20 to 60 cm in height and leaves consisting of paired leaflets.Chickpea flowers are white, pink or purple, and the fruits are pods containing seeds.There are many varieties of chickpeas, including common chickpeas (Cicer arietinum), kabul chickpeas (Cicer arietinum var. kabuli), and many others, varying in seed shape and color.

Chickpeas – nutritional values, vitamins, kcal, gi

Chickpeas are a real treasure trove of nutrients.It is a source of vegetable protein, fiber, vitamins, minerals and antioxidants.100 grams of raw chickpeas contain about 19 grams of protein, 27 grams of carbohydrates, 5 grams of fiber, as well as B vitamins (including folic acid), vitamin K, magnesium, iron, potassium and zinc.Additionally, chickpeas have a low glycemic index (GI), which means they have a positive effect on blood sugar levels.

Properties of chickpeas

Chickpeas have many health benefits. Eating it regularly can help you control your weight, thanks to its high fiber content, which makes you feel full. In addition, chickpeas can support heart health, regulate blood sugar levels and have a positive effect on digestion thanks to the enzymes they contain. Chickpeas are also a rich source of antioxidants that help fight free radicals in the body.

Chickpeas – where to buy, price. how to store chickpeas?

Chickpeas can be found in most grocery stores, both as dry seeds and ready-made canned ones. The price of chickpeas may vary depending on the region and the form in which they are sold. Dry chickpeas are usually cheaper than ready-made cans or jars.

To store chickpeas, it’s a good idea to keep them in an airtight container to maintain freshness and avoid moisture. It is best to store dry chickpeas in a cool and dry place, away from sunlight. Ready-made chickpea products can be stored in the refrigerator for several days after opening the package.

Chickpeas – how to prepare them? do chickpeas need to be soaked?

Preparing chickpeas may seem time-consuming, but it’s worth taking the time to enjoy their flavor and health benefits. It is worth noting that dry chickpeas should be soaked before cooking to shorten the cooking time and increase the absorption of nutrients.

The process of soaking chickpeas involves submerging them in water for several hours or even overnight. Then cook the chickpeas for about an hour or until they are soft. Ready chickpeas can be used to prepare various dishes, such as hummus, chickpea curry, salads and soups.

How to use chickpeas? chickpea flour and water

Chickpeas can be used in the kitchen in many different ways. One of the popular uses is the preparation of chickpea flour, which can be used to bake bread, cakes and pancakes. It is also worth trying to prepare chickpea water, which can be an alternative to traditional vegetable broths.

Healthy recipes with chickpeas

Now that we know the properties of chickpeas and how to prepare them, we can start preparing healthy dishes. Here are some recipes worth trying:

• Chickpea hummus:Mix the prepared chickpeas with tahini, lemon juice, garlic and olive oil. Serve with vegetables or pita bread.
• Chickpea curry:Cook chickpeas with vegetables and curry spices. Serve with basmati rice.
• Chickpea salad:Combine cooked chickpeas with tomatoes, cucumber, red onion and herbs. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice.

Your suggestions

If you have your favorite recipes with chickpeas or interesting facts about its use, feel free to share them in the comments.We would love to hear your suggestions and experiences related to this healthy plant.

Recommended articles

Are you interested in chickpeas?We also recommend other articles on healthy eating and legumes.Find out more about the benefits of eating plant protein and what other legumes you should include in your diet.

Chickpeas are a plant with extraordinary properties and versatile use in the kitchen.Thanks to its rich nutritional composition, it can be a valuable element of a healthy diet.Try different recipes with chickpeas and discover the taste and beneficial effects of this plant.