Chickpeas: The Wonder Food

Hello World!  Welcome Friends!  Chickpeas are undoubtedly a power food, packed full of protein, delicious, and incredibly versatile, being found in the delicious dip hummus, a main ingredient in a chana masala curry, or as a protein source in a roasted cauliflower chickpea salad.

So many incredible dishes have been developed over of the rich history of chickpeas as a food product. Domesticated chickpeas from 3500 BC have been found in areas in Palestine and Turkey, while historic documents have detailed their use in meals around the world, indicating the eventual spread of the chickpea throughout the world. Chickpeas are now still grown all over the world, including South and Western Asia, Australia, throughout the Mediterranean, western Asia, and the United States. India is currently the largest producer of chickpeas in the world, producing ten times as much as the second biggest producer (Australia).

Hummus, the Cultural Titan

The cultural significance of food is often (sadly) under appreciated by lovers of food around the world. Hummus is one food product that has ties to several cultures and geographical regions, each of which claim to be the inventors of this amazingly delicious dip. As such, it’s useful to consider that this chickpea-based food is more than just food – this nutritionally rich dish demonstrates the impact food truly can have on cultures.

There are several countries currently claiming to be inventors of hummus. Lebanon, Turkey and Syria, proudly believe that this food, one that is so adored worldwide, was developed in their borders. Tied to this simple chickpea and tahini dish is a decidedly complex sense of patriotism and identity, acting as a stark contrast to the simple preparation of hummus itself.

The ingredients in hummus – chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, and olive oil – are all foods that have been around for centuries, which makes the dispute even more unclear. Food for thought when you’re taking the next bite of hummus at a dinner party – the origins of food are more complex than they appear!

The Nutrient Powerhouse

Just one of the reasons chickpeas continue to be eaten is the potential for them to so positively contribute to a healthy diet. As well as being completely delicious, chickpeas also contain a variety of nutrients. Not only are they packed full of protein to help keep you fuller for longer, but they’re fibre-rich and contain significant amounts of vitamins and minerals. 

Interestingly, the nutrient profile of chickpeas is positively modified through cooking. Protein digestibility is improved through microwaving, cooking and boiling and essential amino acids are increased through both boiling and cooking. With its smaller cooking time and aid in increasing nutritional value, microwave cooking is a highly underrated way of cooking chickpeas that everyone should try!

Taking Advantage of Chickpea Goodness

Keeping this nutritional value in mind, roasted chickpeas make an excellent snack alternative to unhealthy snacks like potato chips. Best of all, this delicious protein-packed food is a breeze to prepare!

To prepare your healthy snack in time for movie night, simply drain a can of chickpeas (making sure all moisture is patted away with paper towel), toss with a small amount of olive oil, season (cayenne pepper is a great choice!) and evenly spread the chickpeas out on an oven try. Roast for 35 to 45 minutes at 200 degrees Celsius (400 degrees Fahrenheit), making sure that the centre of the chickpeas isn’t soft. If still soft, roast for a further 5 to 10 minutes, checking that they don’t burn.

Then, all you need to do is enjoy them!

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