Lately, my diet has been kind of low on the vitamins and minerals side, I was eating mostly meat dishes, and it was time to set some balance and eat something healthy for a change.So I decided to buy some chickpeas and make two of the most popular recipes of the Middle EasternĀ cuisine Hummus and Falafel.
Chickpeas are full of dietary fiber, protein and B vitamins.In a combination of garlic, tahini and olive oil you get a superfood that is delicious and healthy.Dip in some pita bread, or even better some slices of carrots, cucumber or any vegetable really, to replace your chips with a healthy snack that your belly will be thankful.
Instructions
- Add the chickpeas to a large bowl and pour in water to cover.The chickpeas will double their size so make sure you cover by several inches of water. Add one teaspoon of baking soda, that will help for the chickpeas to soften, and let them soak overnight. *Skip this step if your chickpeas are canned.
- When soaked, dispose the old water and in a big pot add the chickpeas pour in water to cover them and a pinch of baking soda, and let them cook for 20 -30 minutes or until soft.When the chickpeas are cooked, you can easily smash it with your fingers. Drain and rinse the chickpeas with water and let them cool.
- In a food processor add the chickpeas, garlic, olive oil, tahini and freshly squeezed juice of the lemon.Process to combine.Season with the ground cumin, salt, and pepper to taste. Process until smooth consistency.If needed add some water to loosen up.
Recipe Notes
- Adding in baking soda while soaking and cooking decreases the cooking time, and speeds up the softening of the chickpeas, allowing them to process easily, it also makes the hummus much more smooth and fine in texture.