These shelf-stable legumes pack in protein, fiber, and so much more.
Theyre also an excellent source of important micro- and macronutrients and come with many health benefits.
They are a really good source of plant protein, fiber, and different vitamins and minerals.
Photo: Kilito Chan/Getty Images
Here’s a look at what’s inside 1 cup of chickpeas.
Protein is a fundamental macronutrient needed for everything from muscle repair to hormone function.
Protein and fiber work together to help slow digestion and provide sustained satiety.
Caitlin Bensel
Control Blood Sugar
The glycemic index (G.I.)
measures how rapidly certain foods cause your blood sugar to rise after eating them.
Chickpeas are fairly low on this scale, with a score of 28.
Grace Elkus
And with their high protein and fiber content, the beans are a great way to control blood sugar.
Sprinkle some chickpeas on a salad or dip bell peppers into hummus forsome extra ironin your day.
Fight Chronic Diseases
Chickpeas provide antioxidants that have the potential to help ward off certain chronic diseases.
Caitlin Bensel
Meanwhile, iron ensures that oxygen is delivered to the brain.
However, research suggests that both too much and too little iron can lead to brain disorders.
While iron facilitates essential biochemical reactions, it can also promote harmful oxidative stress if it accumulates.
Each of these minerals helps to maintain strong and healthy bones.
Increase Energy
Chickpeas provide a steady release of energy because of their complex carbohydrates.
This can help enhance endurance to get you through the day.
When cooking with canned chickpeas, drain and rinse them with water to wash off extra salt or preservatives.
Once washed, you could do a lot with chickpeas.
For instance, you canroast seasoned chickpeas to crispy perfectiona scrumptious snack and salad topper.
Toss drained chickpeas straight into soups, salads, grain bowls, and pasta for added nutrients and texture.
Or whip them together with fresh lemon juice, garlic, and tahini for velvety, homemade hummus.
Chickpeas versatility also makes them a tasty and satisfying secret weapon for recreating classic bitessansmeat.
Case in point: chickpea salad sandwiches,chickpea cookie dough bites, and chickpea veggie burgers.
Not sure where to get started?
Check out some of our favorite chickpea recipes below.
Chickpea-Stuffed Sweet Potatoes
The only thing better than sweet potatoes is stuffed sweet potatoesstuffed with chickpeas.
This vegetarian meal is a great main or an easy snack.
Smoky Roasted Chickpeas
Chickpeas are also delicious on their own.
You don’t need to mix them with much.
Try, for example, roasted chickpeas as a golden, crispy, and salty snack.
Spiced Chicken and Chickpea Soup
Chicken soup makes for an easy and delicious meal any time.
But don’t just go with the traditional kind of chicken soup.
Add some chickpeas for added crunch and comfort.
They absorb the warm spices and ginger for an extra punch of flavor.
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