Pressure Cook Dried Chickpeas: Unlock the Secret to Perfectly Cooked Legumes

Dried chickpeas are a cheap and versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes, from soups and stews to salads and hummus. They are also a great source of protein and fiber, making them a healthy addition to your diet. But if you’ve ever tried to cook dried chickpeas, you know that they can be a pain to prepare. They can take hours to cook, and if you don’t cook them properly, they can be tough and flavorless.

How To Pressure Cook Dried Chickpeas

There are many ways to cook dried chickpeas, but one of the easiest and most effective methods is to use a pressure cooker. Here’s a simple guide to help you get started:

1. Soak the chickpeas overnight: Place the dried chickpeas in a large bowl and cover them with cold water. Let them soak overnight to help soften them and reduce cooking time.

2. Drain the chickpeas: In the morning, drain the chickpeas and rinse them well to remove any residual soaking water.

3. Prepare the pressure cooker: Add the chickpeas, water, and any desired seasonings to the pressure cooker. The general rule for cooking dried chickpeas in a pressure cooker is to use a 1:2 ratio of chickpeas to water. For example, if you’re cooking 1 cup of dried chickpeas, you would add 2 cups of water to the pressure cooker.

4. Lock the lid and bring the pressure cooker to high pressure: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for your specific pressure cooker to bring it to high pressure. This will vary depending on the model and type of pressure cooker you have.

5. Cook for 15-20 minutes: Cook the chickpeas at high pressure for 15-20 minutes, depending on their size and age. You may need to adjust the cooking time slightly depending on the tenderness of the chickpeas.

6. Allow the pressure to release naturally: After cooking, let the pressure release naturally for 10-15 minutes before unlocking the lid. This will help ensure that the chickpeas are fully cooked and tender.

7. Check the tenderness of the chickpeas: Once the pressure has released, open the lid and test the chickpeas to see if they are tender.

How Do You Cook Dried Chickpeas In A Pressure Cooker?

• Soak the chickpeas overnight to reduce cooking time and help them cook more evenly. Cover them with a few inches of cool water and let them soak at room temperature for 10 to 12 hours.
• The next day, drain the soaked chickpeas and rinse them to remove any impurities.
• Add the chickpeas, along with enough water to cover them by about an inch, to the pressure cooker.
• Lock the lid and bring the pressure cooker to high pressure over medium-high heat.
• Cook at high pressure for 5 minutes, then let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes.
• Finally, unlock the lid and drain the chickpeas, reserving the cooking liquid for another use.

What Are The Benefits Of Cooking Dried Chickpeas In A Pressure Cooker?

The benefits of cooking dried chickpeas in a pressure cooker include saving time and energy. Cooking dried chickpeas in a pressure cooker is much faster and more energy-efficient than cooking them on the stove top or in a slow cooker. Additionally, cooking dried chickpeas in a pressure cooker helps to prevent them from splitting, which can make them more difficult to digest.

Another benefit of cooking dried chickpeas in a pressure cooker is that it can help to improve their flavor. When cooked in a pressure cooker, dried chickpeas can absorb more flavor from the cooking liquid, which can make them more tasty and satisfying. This can be especially helpful if you are cooking them in a broth or stock, as the pressure cooker will help to infuse them with more flavor.

Finally, cooking dried chickpeas in a pressure cooker can also be a more economical choice. Dried chickpeas are generally less expensive than canned or pre-cooked chickpeas, so cooking them in a pressure cooker can help you to save money. Plus, you can cook a large batch of dried chickpeas in a pressure cooker and then store them in the refrigerator or freezer, which can save you even more money and time.

Overall, cooking dried chickpeas in a pressure cooker can be a quick, easy, and tasty way to enjoy a healthy and economical meal.

How Do You Prepare Dried Chickpeas For Cooking In A Pressure Cooker?

To prepare dried chickpeas for cooking in a pressure cooker, you will need to soak them overnight to rehydrate them. Then, drain the chickpeas and rinse them thoroughly to remove any remaining dirt or debris. Next, add the chickpeas to the pressure cooker along with enough water to cover them by about an inch. Cook the chickpeas on high pressure for about 10-15 minutes, or until they are tender. Finally, let the pressure release naturally and enjoy your cooked chickpeas! Be sure to season them with your favorite spices and herbs for added flavor.

What Are The Best Ways To Season Cooked Dried Chickpeas?

If you have some cooked chickpeas on hand, you can use them to make a tasty and healthy snack or side dish. Here are a few ideas for seasoning cooked dried chickpeas:

1. Simply season with salt and pepper: This is a basic but effective way to season cooked chickpeas. You can also add a pinch of garlic or onion powder for extra flavor.

2. Use a combination of spices: Try combining cumin, coriander, paprika, and cayenne pepper for a savory and spicy flavor. You can also add a touch of lemon or orange zest for brightness.

3. Make a Greek-inspired dish: Season cooked chickpeas with oregano, rosemary, and thyme for a Greek-inspired flavor. You can also add a splash of red wine vinegar for acidity.

4. Make a Middle Eastern-inspired dish: Season cooked chickpeas with cumin, turmeric, and ginger for a Middle Eastern-inspired flavor.

How Do You Store Cooked Dried Chickpeas?

Once cooked, dried chickpeas can be stored in the refrigerator for up to five days. They can also be frozen for up to six months. When freezing, it is best to package them in a freezer-safe container or bag, and to leave some headspace for expansion.

When storing cooked chickpeas, it is important to ensure that they are properly sealed to prevent spoilage. It is also important to note that cooked chickpeas should not be stored in a metal container, as this can cause a reaction that can make them unsafe to eat.

If you are looking for a way to add some extra flavor to your cooked chickpeas, you can try adding a little bit of olive oil or another type of oil to the container before storing them. This will help to keep them moist and can also add a nice flavor.

Summary

After pressure cooking, chickpeas can be used immediately or stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. With a little planning, you can have a quick and healthy meal or snack on hand for those busy weeknights.

So, don’t wait any longer to start enjoying the convenience and health benefits of pressure cooked dried chickpeas. Try out this easy and versatile recipe and see for yourself how easy it is to add a nutritious and delicious ingredient to your meals.