Legume |

Chickpea

Cicer arietinum Allergen-Free
Chickpea

The Forktionary Angle

"The humble, hearty hero of healthy eating, delivering robust texture and nutty flavor in countless global dishes."

Definition

A versatile legume, also known as garbanzo bean, with a nutty flavor and firm texture, widely used in Mediterranean, Middle Eastern, and Indian cuisines.

Technical Metrics

Fiber Content (Cooked)

~7.6g per 100g

Global Production (2020)

~15 million metric tons

Protein Content (Cooked)

~8g per 100g

Chef’s Secret

For extra crispy roasted chickpeas, ensure they are completely dry before roasting, and roast at a high temperature, tossing occasionally.

Buying Guide

Available dried or canned. For dried, look for uniform, unblemished beans. For canned, choose low-sodium options.

Flavor Pairings

Lemon garlic tahini cumin cilantro spinach tomatoes olive oil.

Recipes Using Chickpea

Asian Asian Low Saturated Fat Preparation

Middle Eastern Twice Baked Potatoes

Experience a culinary journey with our Middle Eastern Twice-Baked Potatoes! These aren't your average baked potatoes – we're transforming them into a low-fat, vegetarian delight packed with vibrant Middle Eastern flavors. Creamy mashed potatoes infused with savory chickpeas, aromatic cumin and coriander, zesty garlic, and a touch of tahini create a symphony of taste. Perfect as a side dish with your favorite roasts or Middle Eastern main course, or enjoy them as a light and satisfying vegetarian meal on their own. This improved recipe addresses previous dryness issues for a perfectly moist and flavorful experience.

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Low In Something Low Cholesterol Inexpensive 30 Minutes Or Less

1 2 Cup Soup

This isn't your grandma's soup recipe! It's a flexible, adaptable method for creating a light and satisfying bowl of goodness using whatever fresh ingredients you have on hand. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a light lunch, this recipe emphasizes fresh flavors and simple techniques. Customize it with your favorite vegetables, proteins, and grains for endless delicious possibilities! Learn the art of improvisational cooking and discover a new favorite soup.

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Course Course Main Dish

3 Bean Vegetarian Chili

This hearty 3-Bean Vegetarian Chili is bursting with flavor and will quickly become a weeknight favorite! No one will miss the meat in this satisfying and incredibly delicious chili. Perfect for meal prepping, it freezes and reheats beautifully, making it ideal for busy weeknights. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this simple yet extraordinary recipe!

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Preparation Moroccan Main Dish Stews

A Very Good Tagine Tajine Vegetarian

Warm up your taste buds with this healthy and flavorful Moroccan vegetarian tagine! Packed with chickpeas, sweet potatoes, apricots, and aromatic spices, this recipe is perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner. Enjoy delicious leftovers the next day! Easily customizable spice levels to suit your preference. #MoroccanFood #VegetarianTagine #HealthyRecipe #ChickpeaRecipe #SweetPotatoRecipe #ApricotRecipe #EasyRecipe #Leftovers

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Poultry Stews 60 Minutes Or Less Low Saturated Fat

Algerian Chicken Stew

Experience the vibrant flavors of Algeria with this hearty chicken stew, adapted from "Extending the Table." Tender chicken simmers in a rich broth with aromatic spices, tender vegetables, and garbanzo beans. Perfect served over fluffy couscous for a complete and satisfying meal. Easily substitute goat or lamb for the chicken for a delicious twist!

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Seafood Pasta Preparation Saltwater Fish

Almost Fat Free Tuna Helper Healthy

Craving Tuna Helper but want a healthier, lighter option? This recipe tastes almost identical to the classic, but it's surprisingly low in fat and packed with nutrients! Made with pureed chickpeas for a creamy texture and wholesome ingredients, this satisfying meal is ready in under 30 minutes. Get ready for a guilt-free comfort food experience!

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15 Minutes Or Less Vegetables Main Ingredient 15 Minutes Or Less

Another Bean Salad

Sweet and tangy bean salad recipe! This vibrant salad is perfect for potlucks, barbecues, or a light lunch. Easy to make and bursting with flavor, it's a delicious combination of beans, veggies, and a zesty vinaigrette that will marinate to perfection overnight.

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Healthy Occasion Vegetarian Stir Fry

Arabian Spinach

A vibrant and healthy Arabian Spinach recipe, ready in just 15 minutes! Enjoy the delightful combination of tender spinach and crunchy chickpeas, seasoned with aromatic spices. This easy-to-prepare meal is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a healthy lunch.

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Main Ingredient Healthy Main Ingredient Low Fat

Arabic Eggplant Aubergine Stew

A vibrant and flavorful vegetarian eggplant stew, perfect as a hearty main course or served over your favorite pasta! This easy oven-baked recipe, inspired by the sunsets of the Middle East (credited to Kathren McIntyre), boasts tender eggplant, savory garbanzos, and juicy tomatoes. Get ready for a taste of the exotic in just 75 minutes!

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Potluck Course Easy Salads

Artichoke And Garbanzo Bean Salad

This vibrant Artichoke and Garbanzo Bean Salad is a crowd-pleaser perfect for potlucks, picnics, or a light summer lunch! Made with pantry staples, this simple recipe requires minimal effort for maximum flavor. Let the flavors meld overnight for the best results – it's even better the next day! Get ready to impress with this delicious and refreshing salad.

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Seafood 1 Day Or More Brunch Portuguese

Bacalhau Salt Cod With Chickpeas

Experience the authentic flavors of Portugal with this hearty Bacalhau (salt cod) and chickpea stew! Perfect for a warm luncheon or brunch, this simple yet satisfying dish is surprisingly quick to assemble once the salt cod is prepared (allowing 24-48 hours for soaking). The tender salt cod flakes mingle beautifully with chickpeas, vibrant herbs, and a hint of piri-piri (or red pepper flakes for a fiery kick). Serve warm or at room temperature, paired perfectly with a glass of robust red wine. This recipe is a taste of tradition, ready to be enjoyed!

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Weeknight Course Weeknight Preparation

Baked Beans Quintet

This hearty Baked Beans Quintet recipe, originally from Better Homes and Gardens and passed down through generations, delivers a rich and savory flavor profile. Sweet and smoky baked beans, perfectly complemented by crispy bacon, tender onions, and aromatic garlic. A comforting classic, perfect for a family gathering or potluck!

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Low Fat Main Dish 5 Ingredients Or Less 60 Minutes Or Less

Baked Chick Pea Pattys

These incredibly delicious baked chickpea patties are a game-changer! Even picky eaters will adore these crispy, flavorful patties, perfect served on buns with your favorite toppings or enjoyed as a standalone dish with a refreshing cucumber-soy yogurt dip. Made with simple ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions, this recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a satisfying weekend lunch. Get ready to experience a burst of plant-based goodness that will leave you wanting more! #veganrecipes #chickpeapatties #plantbased #easyrecipe #veganfood #healthyfood #vegetarian

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Pasta Rice And Grains Appetizers Occasion Beans

Baked Falafel Balls

Experience the joy of perfectly baked falafel balls – crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, and completely oil-free! This healthy and delicious recipe skips the deep fryer, making it a guilt-free treat. Serve these delightful balls in warm pita bread with your favorite cooling cucumber sauce for a truly unforgettable Mediterranean experience.

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Occasion Soups Stews Low Fat Weeknight

Barley Stew With Saffron And Chickpeas

This hearty and flavorful Barley Stew, inspired by Canadian chef Ricardo, is a family-friendly recipe that's easily customizable! Enjoy it as a vegetarian delight with vegetable broth or elevate it to a protein-packed meal by adding shrimp at the end. Bursting with saffron's vibrant color and the comforting flavors of barley and chickpeas, this stew is so delicious, even babies will love it! Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner.

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Main Ingredient Beans Casseroles Main Ingredient

Bean Casserole With Eggplant And Red Pepper

This vibrant vegetarian bean casserole is a quick and easy one-pan wonder, perfect for a weeknight meal! Featuring tender eggplant, sweet red peppers, and hearty beans in a flavorful herb-infused tomato sauce, this recipe is easily customizable – use canned tomatoes for extra convenience. Get ready for a satisfying and delicious vegetarian feast in under an hour!

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Main Ingredient Time To Make Indian Beef

Beef Wonton Samosas

Crispy, golden-brown Beef Wonton Samosas bursting with savory spiced beef and potatoes! This recipe offers a delicious twist on a classic, perfect for a party appetizer or a satisfying main course. Easily baked or fried for your convenience. Get ready for a flavor adventure!

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Healthy 2 Dietary Time To Make Cuisine

Best Israeli Hummus

Craving authentic Israeli hummus? This recipe comes incredibly close to the creamy, dreamy hummus you'll find throughout Israel! We've streamlined the process with canned chickpeas for ultimate convenience, but feel free to use dried for a deeper flavor (instructions may vary slightly). Get ready to experience the taste of Israel in your own kitchen – perfect with warm pita and your favorite toppings!

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