Chickpeas, also known as garbanzo beans, are an unlikely hero in so many recipes. I love that this versatile legume can go beyond hummus and transform into a multitude of dishes. Though chickpeas can mostly be found in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern dishes, they can also be incorporated in meals like breakfast, lunches, salads, snacks and even dessert. They are also an amazing source of clean protein, which is great if you’re looking to incorporate more into your meals.
My seasoned chickpeas are a good base for lots of savory dishes. I love to use them in breakfast scrambles, burritos, and in my Vegan Chickpea Salad, which you can find here. The use of garlic, thyme, and chicken seasoning in the simmering liquid, makes the beans more tender while infusing them with a meaty umami-like flavor.
If you are using canned chickpeas, be sure to reserve some of the liquid from the can for later. Known as aquafaba, it has a similar structure to egg whites and can be used to make plant-based versions of mayo and meringue.