In this article, we'll tell you everything you need to know about chickpeas. You'll discover what they taste like, what their texture is and how to use them in your cooking.
Let's check them out...
What Do Chickpeas Taste Like?
There is an inescapable beany flavor to chickpeas, which may be something you'd expect of a legume. Their flavor can be compared to pinto and cannellini beans, mild and starchy.
But there's definitely an earthy flavor in chickpeas that you'll notice right away. It's a flavor that's difficult to put your finger on, but it's slightly nutty and definitely savory.
Chickpea Texture
The softest chickpeas will still have a gentle firmness. You may even feel the papery skin separating from the inner flesh of the chickpea as you chew it.
Chickpeas are creamy, but they're also mildly grainy, sort of like cooked potatoes. It's a texture that people tend to really like as it holds its own in stews and casseroles.
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Can You Eat Chickpeas Straight out of the Can?
Since canned chickpeas are precooked, you can eat them directly from the can after you drain the soaking liquid. If you haven't tried chickpeas before, this is a good way to test them out.
Most people don't like chickpeas straight out of the can, but they can be roasted and munched on as snacks, especially seasoned like roasted nuts.
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How Do You Eat Canned Chickpeas?
You can eat canned chickpeas in any way that you'd eat chickpeas that you cooked from dried form. Rinse them in water and throw a handful on top of a salad for a quick protein source.
Hummus is arguably one of the most popular recipes for canned chickpeas, and all you need is a food processor or sturdy blender. Check out the video recipes linked below to see how you can make them a regular part of your weekly menu.
How Long Do Canned Chickpeas Last?
Unopened, canned chickpeas can last for a long, long time. Check the expiration date on the can for a rough estimate. An opened can of chickpeas won't last long, however.
Once you expose the chickpeas to air, you've got roughly three to five days to eat them. When they start to go off, you'll be greeted with an acrid smell when you open your refrigerator.
Chickpea Serving Tips
So what can you do with chickpeas? From sandwich fillings to curries, you won't be lacking for scrumptious vegan recipes.
This is such a fun recipe for chickpea nuggets you can dip in barbecue sauce, ketchup or any sauce you fancy. They're great for party snacks (and all ages).
Here's what you need:
- Breadcrumbs
- Turmeric
- Canned chickpeas
- Quick oats
- Flax egg
- Onion powder
- Garlic powder
- Poultry seasoning (vegan)
- Nutritional yeast
- Salt and pepper
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One of the most famous lunch recipes with chickpeas is mock tuna salad. The texture of the chickpeas done up in a food processor provides the texture base while the seaweed makes it briny and delicious.
Grab these ingredients:
- Chickpeas
- Vegan mayo
- Dijon
- Ume plum vinegar
- Celery seeds
- Celery
- Green onions (or red onions)
- Salt and black pepper
- Cayenne pepper
- Romaine or kale
- Unseasoned nori seaweed
- Bread
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Indian chana masala is a big-time vegan comfort food, mildly spicy and super filling. Add a touch of coconut milk for a creamy spin on this classic.
Here are all the ingredients:
- Yellow onion
- Ginger
- Garlic
- Jalapeno
- Turmeric
- Coriander
- Cumin
- Cumin seeds
- Cinnamon
- Nutmeg
- Cloves
- Curry powder
- Diced tomatoes
- Chickpeas
- Lemon
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Wrap Up
Chickpeas are staples of vegan diets. They're protein-packed and mild enough to use in just about any vegan meal you can think of. Think chickpeas for lunch in mock tuna salad or for dinner in curry or with barbecue sauce on a vegan white pizza.
Further Reading: What Do Chickpeas Taste Like?
Hey, I’m Joey. I’ve been cooking since I was a little kid and love everything about it. You can find my writing about food, kitchen appliances (such as blenders) and much more. Thanks for stopping by!
