Game-Changing Chickpeas

Few pantry staples are as highly nutritious and incredibly versatile as multitalented chickpeas. They can be transformed into many delicious, healthful creations although they’re most commonly known as a base for hummus. The modest legume can also be used to make healthier versions of your favorite comfort foods or even vegan-friendly treats. Grab your can opener and get ready to create these game-changing chickpea recipes!

Chickpea Burgers
Give vegetarian burgers a slightly nutty flavor with chickpeas! In a food processor, combine chickpeas, cooked onions, eggs and flour then add flavorful curry, turmeric, cilantro or mint or incorporate crunchy binding ingredients like pepitas or sunflower seeds. Blend into a thick batter, form into patties, and sauté or bake to the desired doneness. Serve in lettuce wraps, buns or over salad greens.

Chickpea of the Sea
Chickpeas can replace fish or poultry in tuna or chicken salad. This veg-friendly recipe is simple and incredibly versatile! Chickpea “tuna” is delicious by itself, with crackers or wrapped in your favorite sandwich bread or lettuce wrap. Roughly mash chickpeas until they resemble small, tuna-like pieces with some chunks remaining. Mix in onion, celery and garlic powder, then bind it together with mayo, hummus or vegan mayo.

Adaptable Aquafaba
Next time you use chickpeas, don’t discard the excess liquid in the can (also known as aquafaba). Aquafaba is an emerging ingredient that’s popular for its similarity to egg whites, as well as its plant-based properties. A unique mix of starches and protein gives it foaming, binding and thickening qualities. Use aquafaba in place of eggs to create homemade mayonnaise or baked goods. Or, mix it with sugar and vanilla extract then whip it into a stiff, fluffy foam to create an egg-free meringue.

How to Cook Dried Chickpeas
Crispy chickpeas make an easy, healthy snack for game-day, road trips or any time you want to munch on something crunchy! Get chickpeas as dry as possible, and toss with oil and garlic or a mixture of your favorite flavors like maple and cinnamon or chili powder and soy sauce, and bake until crisp. Enjoy this addicting snack on its own or as a topper for salads, soups, grain bowls, flatbreads or eggs.