If you’re looking for an easy and tasty protein source, chickpeas are a fantastic option. However, it can be frustrating when even canned chickpeas come out tough or undercooked. The good news is that with a few simple tips and tricks, you can learn how to cook perfectly tender tinned chickpeas every time. Whether you’re using them for salad, hummus, or curries, this guide will help ensure your chickpeas are deliciously soft and flavorful.
What are Tinned Chickpeas
If you’re looking to cook some chickpeas and don’t have the time for the long process of soaking and boiling, tinned chickpeas are a great alternative. Tinned chickpeas, also known as canned chickpeas, are chickpeas that have already been cooked and then preserved in a can. They are a popular ingredient in many cuisines, including Mediterranean, Middle Eastern, and Indian dishes.
The Importance of Tinned Chickpeas in Cooking
Using tinned chickpeas in your cooking can save you a lot of time and effort. They are easy to store in your pantry and can be used in a variety of recipes. In addition, they have a longer shelf life compared to dried chickpeas. But there are a few things to keep in mind when cooking with tinned chickpeas.
- Make sure to drain and rinse the chickpeas thoroughly before using them. The liquid they are stored in can have a lot of salt and preservatives.
- If you’re using tinned chickpeas in a salad or dish where you want them to hold their shape, be gentle when handling them to avoid breaking them up.
- Tinned chickpeas are already cooked, so you only need to warm them up if you’re using them in a hot dish. Add them towards the end of the cooking time to prevent them from getting too soft and mushy.
Why Cook Tinned Chickpeas
If you’re a fan of hummus and chickpea stews, you know chickpeas are a staple in many dishes. However, the process of cooking dried chickpeas can be time-consuming and labor-intensive. Luckily, there’s an easier option: tinned chickpeas.
The Convenience of Tinned Chickpeas
Purchasing tinned chickpeas instead of dried ones can save you a significant amount of time and effort. Dried chickpeas require pre-soaking, and even then, they can take hours to cook. Tinned chickpeas, on the other hand, are cooked and ready to use right out of the can, making them a quick and convenient option for busy individuals. Additionally, tinned chickpeas have a longer shelf life, so you can keep them on hand for whenever the craving strikes.
The Nutritional Value of Tinned Chickpeas
Tinned chickpeas also provide a number of health benefits. They are packed with nutrients such as protein, fiber, iron, and folate. In fact, one cup of tinned chickpeas contains 12 grams of protein and 10 grams of fiber. Tinned chickpeas are also a great source of complex carbohydrates, which provide long-lasting energy and help keep you feeling full for longer periods of time.
- Tinned chickpeas are rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds that can help reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
- The high fiber content in tinned chickpeas can help lower cholesterol levels and improve heart health.
- Tinned chickpeas are also low in calories and fat, making them a great addition to any weight loss or maintenance plan.
How to Prepare Tinned Chickpeas
Chickpeas are a versatile and nutritious ingredient that can be used in various dishes. If you’re working with tinned chickpeas, there are some crucial things you need to know before cooking them. Follow these tips to ensure your tinned chickpeas are perfectly tender and ready for your recipe.
Drain and Rinse the Chickpeas
The first thing you need to do when working with tinned chickpeas is to drain and rinse them thoroughly. This process helps to remove the excess salt and starch that can make the chickpeas taste too salty or cause them to become mushy when cooked.
- To drain the chickpeas, simply pour them into a colander.
- Rinse the chickpeas under running water until the water running through the chickpeas runs clear. This ensures that all the excess starch and salt is removed.
- Shake the colander to get rid of any excess water.
Pre-Soak the Chickpeas
If you have time, it’s recommended that you pre-soak the chickpeas before cooking them. Pre-soaking helps to make them more tender and reduces the cooking time. You have two options for this:
- Overnight Soak: Drain and rinse the chickpeas as usual. Place them in a bowl and cover them with water. Let them soak for 8-12 hours before cooking.
- Quick Soak: Drain and rinse the chickpeas as usual. Place them in a pot and cover them with cold water. Bring the water to a boil and let the chickpeas cook for 2-3 minutes. Remove the pot from the heat, cover it with a lid, and let the chickpeas soak for one hour.
Remove the Skin
Another tip for the perfect tinned chickpeas is to remove the skin before cooking. This step is not necessary, but it makes the chickpeas more digestible and creates a smoother texture. Here’s how:
| Step 1 | Step 2 |
|---|---|
| Drain the chickpeas and rinse them thoroughly. | Place the chickpeas in a bowl and add water. |
| Place the chickpeas between your thumb and index finger. | Rub the chickpeas with your hands to remove the skin. You may need to apply some pressure to get the skin to come off. |
| Discard the skin and rinse the chickpeas again before cooking. | The chickpeas are now ready to cook. |
By following these simple tips, you can prepare tinned chickpeas beautifully, resulting in tender, flavorful, and perfectly cooked chickpeas for your dish.
The Cooking Process
If you’re in a rush and don’t have time to plan or soak beforehand, using tinned chickpeas is a lifesaver. With a quick rinse and a little cook, you can enjoy perfectly tender chickpeas in no time.
Step 1: Drain and Rinse Chickpeas
Drain and rinse the tinned chickpeas in cold water. This ensures that the chickpeas are free of any preservatives or excess sodium.
Step 2: Preheat Pan
Preheat a pan on medium heat and add some olive oil that will give the chickpeas a delicious taste.
Step 3: Sauté Chickpeas
Once the pan is heated, add the chickpeas and sauté them. Make sure to stir frequently and cook until the chickpeas are lightly browned, and then remove them from the heat.
Step 4: Season the Chickpeas
The final step is to add your preferred seasonings to the chickpeas. Paprika, cumin, garlic powder, and chili flakes are all excellent options. Mix the chickpeas and seasonings together for a tasty dish that can be enjoyed as a side dish or added to salads and pasta dishes.
Storing Tinned Chickpeas
After opening a tin of chickpeas, you might find yourself with leftover chickpeas that need storing for future use. Chickpeas are a great pantry staple to have on hand for quick and easy meals, so it’s handy to know the best way to store them to keep them fresh and tasty.
1. Transfer to an Airtight Container
Once opened, transfer any unused chickpeas to an airtight container. This will help to keep them fresh for longer by reducing their exposure to air and moisture. Make sure the container is clean and dry before adding the chickpeas and ensure that the lid is securely fastened before storing.
2. Keep Them in the Fridge
If you are not planning on using the chickpeas within a day or two, it’s best to keep them in the fridge to extend their lifespan. Place the airtight container of chickpeas in the fridge and try to use them within 3-4 days to ensure they are at their best.
3. Freeze for Longer Storage
If you have a lot of leftover chickpeas that you won’t be using within 3-4 days, it’s best to freeze them for longer storage. Before freezing, rinse the chickpeas well and drain them thoroughly. You can then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag, making sure to remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. Chickpeas can be frozen for up to 3 months.
4. Label and Date the Container
Whether you are storing chickpeas in the fridge or the freezer, it’s important to label and date the container. This will help you keep track of how long the chickpeas have been stored and ensure that you use them within their recommended timeframe.
5. Use Stored Chickpeas Wisely
When you want to use the chickpeas you’ve stored, it’s important to use them safely and wisely. Make sure to thaw frozen chickpeas completely before using them, either by defrosting them in the fridge or at room temperature. If you are using chickpeas from the fridge, give them a sniff and visual check before using to ensure they haven’t gone bad.
Recipes to Try with Cooked Tinned Chickpeas
Once you’ve mastered the art of cooking perfect tinned chickpeas, you’ll be able to whip up some delicious chickpea recipes. Here are some recipes that you can try:
Roasted Chickpeas
One of the easiest and tastiest ways to enjoy chickpeas is by roasting them. Simply toss the cooked chickpeas with some olive oil, salt, and your favorite spices, such as cumin, paprika, or chili powder. Spread them out on a baking sheet and bake at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 20-30 minutes, until crispy and golden brown. These roasted chickpeas make a great snack or salad topper.
Hummus
Hummus is a creamy dip made from chickpeas, tahini, olive oil, lemon juice, and garlic. To make hummus, blend all the ingredients together in a food processor until smooth and creamy. You can also add other flavorings, like roasted red peppers or jalapenos, to mix things up. Serve with pita chips or veggies for a healthy and tasty snack.
Chickpea Salad
For a light and refreshing meal, try making a chickpea salad. Simply mix together cooked chickpeas with chopped veggies, such as cucumbers, tomatoes, and bell peppers. Dress with a simple vinaigrette made from olive oil, lemon juice, and your favorite herbs. You can also add crumbled feta cheese or sliced avocado for extra flavor and texture.
Chickpea Curry
If you’re in the mood for something a bit heartier, try making a chickpea curry. Saute some diced onions and garlic in a large pot or pan, then add your favorite Indian spices, like curry powder, garam masala, and turmeric. Add in some diced tomatoes and coconut milk, then stir in the cooked chickpeas. Simmer everything together for 10-15 minutes, until the flavors meld together. Serve over rice or with naan bread.
Chickpea Soup
For a warming and satisfying meal, try making a chickpea soup. Saute some diced onions, garlic, and celery in a large pot, then add some diced potatoes and carrots. Pour in some vegetable broth and bring to a simmer, then add in the cooked chickpeas. Cook everything together until the veggies are tender, then puree the soup with an immersion blender until smooth. Serve hot with crusty bread.
Thanks for Reading, Come Back Later for More Delicious Recipes!
Now that you know how to cook tender tinned chickpeas, you can enjoy them in a variety of dishes. Add them to salads for some extra protein, make a homemade hummus, or even use them as a meat substitute in vegetarian curries. The possibilities are endless, so get creative in the kitchen!
How to Cook Perfectly Tender Tinned Chickpeas
Learn how to cook tinned chickpeas so they turn out perfectly tender every time. This easy step-by-step guide will show you how to cook chickpeas on the stove, in a pressure cooker, and even in a slow cooker.
- 2 cans of tinned chickpeas
- 4 cups of water
- 1 tsp of salt
- 1/2 tsp of baking soda
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 small onion (halved)
- 2 garlic cloves
- Drain and rinse the chickpeas to remove any excess liquid. In a large pot, combine the chickpeas, 4 cups of water, salt, baking soda, bay leaves, onion, and garlic cloves. Do not add any acidic ingredients like tomatoes, vinegar, or lemon juice at this stage, as they can make the chickpeas tough.
- Bring the pot to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let the chickpeas simmer for 20-25 minutes. Test the chickpeas by biting into one – it should be soft but still hold its shape. Remove the bay leaves, onion, and garlic and discard.
- Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for cooking dried beans in a pressure cooker. Generally, you will need to use a 1:2 ratio of chickpeas to water and cook on high pressure for 10-12 minutes. Allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes before manually releasing any remaining pressure.
- In a slow cooker, combine the chickpeas, 8 cups of water, salt, baking soda, bay leaves, onion, and garlic cloves. Cook on low for 6-8 hours, or until the chickpeas are tender. Remove the bay leaves, onion, and garlic and discard.
- Once your chickpeas are cooked, drain them and rinse under cold water to stop any further cooking. Your chickpeas are now ready to use in your favorite recipes. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.
