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A Likable Legume By Christianne Ingegno Applications Editor
Chickpeas, also known as garbanzo beans or "ceci" in Italian, regularly flavor many regional and ethnic cuisines. Their delicate, nutty flavor and firm texture lend textural appeal to many applications, including salads, appetizers and pasta dishes. While chickpeas can range in color from black to reddish-brown, the most common variety are a tan or beige color. Larger than an average pea -- a common U.S.-grown dry chickpea, Kabuli, averages 8.5 to10.5 mm in diameter and weighs 0.49 grams per 100 seeds -- these legumes have a round, marble-like shape with a slight "tail" at their end. They're available canned, dried and fresh in some areas (and are even ground into a flour). Dried chickpeas can be stored in an airtight container for up to one year, but need rehydrating by either soaking for several hours or cooking in water over low heat. Canned varieties require draining and rinsing before use; fresh must be parcooked. Nutritionally speaking, chickpeas pack a healthy punch. They're high in protein and low in fat, and contain good amounts of fiber, calcium, iron and phosphorus, as well as vitamins C and B6, folate, and zinc. And, they make good substitutes for animal proteins, lending a "meaty" component to vegetarian diets. The chickpea's versatility suits many food categories, from center-of-the-plate to side dishes to soups and stews. Its mild taste marries well with strong spices and flavors, such as onion and garlic, and they are particularly popular in ethnic items, such as Italian minestrone soup, which spotlights the ceci. Spanish cuisine favors the chickpea in stews. Middle Eastern hummus is a spread made of mashed chickpeas. Falafel, also from the Middle East, are spicy, deep-fried croquettes made from ground chickpeas and often served as a sandwich in pita bread or as appetizers. Roasted, lightly salted chickpeas also make a tasty snack. As the demand for atypical, more-ethnic dishes grows, food-industry professionals constantly seek new, creative ways to enhance consumers' options. Chickpeas are ideal ingredients: affordable additions that function well with many ingredients in myriad cuisines.
• Photo: Weeks Photography 3400 Dundee Rd. Suite #100 |
