(This publish is NOT sponsored, however I did obtain samples of Biena snacks, which impressed this publish as a result of we cherished them!)

Are Chickpeas Beans?

Sure! Chickpeas are additionally referred to as garbanzo beans, and folks have been consuming them since historical instances. 

Are Chickpeas Wholesome?

Completely. Chickpeas are an ideal supply of lean, sustainable protein and fiber. A one-half cup serving of chickpeas has six grams of fiber, a couple of quarter of what youngsters want in a day. Chickpeas include iron and zinc, two minerals youngsters want for development. And like all “pulses”–peas, lentils, beans–they’re additionally linked to well being advantages comparable to a decrease ldl cholesterol and blood strain, and maybe even much less danger for some sorts of cancers.

What About Packaged Chickpea Snacks?

There are many new bean-based snacks available on the market–and I’m all for it! Bagged chickpea “puffs” and even chocolate-covered chickpeas are a pleasant child step towards the entire meals, particularly for reluctant youngsters (and grown-ups). Search for them on the grocery retailer. Are puffs the identical as consuming the entire chickpea? No, however they could assist chickpeas appear much less intimidating and extra acceptable once they’re introduced this manner, like a bridge towards the actual deal.

Are Dry or Canned Chickpeas Higher?

Although each dry and canned beans are fairly economical–and a downright low cost supply of protein in comparison with meat–dry sometimes prices much less. However canned are able to be tossed into recipes ASAP, with no further time wanted to cook dinner them. And based on Bon Appetit, canned chickpeas are literally the most effective canned bean round.

How Do I Cook dinner Chickpeas?

Canned chickpeas are cooked and able to go. In the event you resolve to go for dry chickpeas, right here’s a information to cooking them on the range, within the gradual cooker, and within the Prompt Pot.

What If My Child Doesn’t Like Chickpeas?

If plain chickpeas haven’t gone over nicely together with your gang, listed below are another methods you’ll be able to introduce them to your youngsters:

• Roasted chickpeas (see recipes beneath)
• Falafel (a Center Jap “fritter” made with floor chickpeas)
• Hummus (right here’s the straightforward hummus recipe I make)
• Chocolate-covered chickpeas (we like those from Biena)
• Chickpea Puffs (ditto on Biena!)
• Chickpea bars & brownies (see recipes beneath)

Chickpea Recipes

In the event you’re on the lookout for some wholesome chickpeas recipes, I’ve collected a bunch. A few of these come from my dietitian pals. I additionally requested Actual Mother readers on Fb for his or her youngsters’ fave chickpea recipes, and people are marked with an asterisk.

Roasted Chickpeas Recipes

Chickpea Bars, Cookies & Brownies Recipes

Chickpea Dinner Recipes

Misc. Chickpea Recipes