Chef's Notes Plus

Chickpeas’ Secret Power: Aquafaba

A crowd favorite and hero of the plant-forward kitchen, chickpeas, also known as garbanzo beans, are a versatile ingredient in sweet or savory recipes. Widely known for its high protein and fiber content, this pulse is found in many Middle Eastern and Indian recipes, including hummus, falafel, salads, pastas, and […]

Chef's Blog, Chef's Notes Plus

Cooking Dried Chickpeas

Why cook dried chickpeas? Simple: They’re hands-down better than canned. Here’s how to make perfect chickpeas every time. And remember, beans of all kinds are great to freeze and use later, so make a big batch! Ingredients 1 lb dried chickpeas 1 peeled onion, halved 3 teaspoons kosher salt, divided […]

Allergen Friendly, Salads

Creamy Whole Wheat Pasta Salad

Makes 4 to 6 servings We don’t like to dumb food down for kids, but we also know that sometimes kids are picky. So this plant-forward (vegan, in fact!) pasta salad is just a good starting point. The tangy chickpea dressing is creamy like mayo, but packed with protein. Add […]

Sandwiches

Falafel

Makes 8 portions Ingredients 1 lb dried chickpeas 1/2 bunch flat-leaf parsley 1/2 bunch cilantro 8 scallions 1 teaspoon cayenne 1 tablespoon ground cumin 2 teaspoons ground coriander 6 garlic cloves, peeled 1 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more as needed Pure olive oil, as needed, for deep-frying 4 pieces Pita […]

Main Dishes, Soups and Stews

Hlelem (Tunisian Vegetable and Bean Soup)

Makes about 150 individual candies Packed with beans and greens, this slightly spicy vegetable soup is both tasty and good for you. Harissa is a Tunisian hot sauce or paste usually made with hot chiles, garlic, cumin, coriander, caraway, and olive oil. It’s available in cans, jars, or tubes from […]

Appetizers, Hors D’oeuvre, and Snacks

Hummus bi Tahini

Makes 1 quart This is a basic hummus recipe that is perfect as is, but is also endlessly customizable. Just like the ones you see in the store, you can top this hummus with anything from olive tapenade to roasted red peppers. Sprinkle the hummus with spice blends, like za’atar, […]

Chef's Blog

Meal Prep: Chickpeas

Sundays are all about relaxing at home and prepping for the week ahead. A lot of us have a go-to meal prep routine that includes cooking a bunch of protein, steaming veggies, or constructing a salad, and finishing with some sort of dessert. Did you know that you can use […]

Main Dishes

Pasta e Ceci (Pasta & Chickpeas)

Makes 4 to 6 servings This is a classic Italian dish that showcases chickpeas and a flavorful broth. You can cook the chickpeas a day or two ahead, and then the dish will come together in a flash for a busy weeknight. Ingredients 1 lb dried chickpeas (about 2 1/2 […]

Salads

Tahini & Tuna–Stuffed Tomatoes

Makes 8 servings Ingredients One 15-ounce can chickpeas, drained and rinsed. 1/3 cup tahini 1 garlic clove, minced 2 green onions, chopped 3 tablespoons minced cilantro 1/4 cup water 1/2 teaspoon sesame oil 1 teaspoon ground cumin Two 5-ounce cans tuna packed in water, drained 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice […]

Chef's Blog, Chef's Notes Plus

The Mighty Chickpea

Chickpeas, also known as garbanzo beans, are a nutrient-dense legume that have been a staple in diets across various cultures for centuries. Chickpeas are particularly valued for their high protein content, which is essential for muscle repair and growth. They are also rich in dietary fiber, which supports digestive health […]