For all the vegetarians, whenever there is need of protein, it is either paneer (cottage cheese) or legumes that come to our rescue. All kinds of pulses and dals are loaded with nutrition and provide sufficient energy to your body. Chickpeas are a type of legumes which are great sources of protein. I personally love chickpeas. They can range from being a perfect and filling snack to a delicious main dish for lunch or dinner. Getting adequate nutrition in the body is essential to keep yourself charged up.
Across various cultures and cuisines, chickpeas are used in a variety of ways. From the creamy and thick hummus, a Middle-Eastern dip made from chickpea base to a spicy chana masala or pindi chole, there is no dearth of possibilities when it comes to chickpeas. You can add them to your salads to spruce up the protein content and balance the leafy greens with chunky chickpeas. Here are some reasons why you should include chickpeas in your diet.
1. They contain high amounts of fibre which helps in keeping you full for longer. This allows you to eat lesser and hence, control your weight.
2. Since they are naturally gluten-free, chickpeas serve as the perfect alternative to those who cannot consume gluten.
3. The low levels of sodium and lack of cholesterol help to avoid any cardiovascular diseases.
This and plenty of other health benefits enable chickpeas to become the star of your diet. Now if you’re wondering how to eat them, we’ve got 5 amazing recipes at your service.
1. Chicken Chickpea Curry
For all the meat-lovers who can’t resist the urge to eat chicken at least once in a day, this curry recipe is for you. Dunk the soft and succulent chicken pieces in the thick curry and add chickpeas to the mix. Cook all of this together in onion-tomato gravy and enjoy.
2. Vegetarian Chickpea Nuggets
Don’t have meat? Don’t worry because we have these delicious chickpea nuggets for you. Made with boiled and mashed chickpeas, the nuggets are coated with bread crumbs and fried. The crispy nuggets are served with a side of tomato ketchup.
3. Chickpea Butternut Squash Stew With Couscous
The chickpeas are cooked in a flavourful butternut squash stew which gives it a beautiful colour and a tangy taste. Couscous is added to the dish for additional flavour and served with a side of steamed rice.