These oddly named peas are packed with power and guarantee fun in the gym, in the kitchen and on your plate. Chickpeas strengthen you with plant proteins, which in the right combination will get you into top form. As nutritious as a small steak, and wonderfully versatile in the kitchen. Chickpeas make powerful plant proteins fun.
As rich in protein as meat
Are chickpeas really as nutritious as a small steak? At least when it comes to protein, pulses can easily hold their own against meat. Anyone wanting to include more vegetarian or vegan dishes in their diet will find it hard to ignore chickpeas. A stew containing 250 grams of chickpeas will provide your body with a hefty 50 grams of protein. But isn’t animal protein more nutritious than plant protein? Yes, but in clever combinations of pulses and grains, plant proteins pack just as much power. So add some millet or green spelt to your next chickpea stew or eat it with a slice of bread. The perfect protein boost for your body and muscles.
Tip: Would you like to learn more about the quality of plant proteins and the ways in which they can be combined? Take a look at the article More protein power with a clever combination.
What do these little peas have to do with chickens?
The name “chickpea” is funny and unusual. But why are they called that? The answer is very mundane: “Cicer”, the Latin word for pea, became “chiche”, which gradually transformed into “chick” in English. But their cornucopia of important nutrients is extremely good for our bodies. These oddly named little peas provide us with plenty of magnesium, iron and bags of B vitamins such as B1, B6, and folic acid. They also provide calcium, zinc, and a great deal of fiber.
Creative chickpea cuisine
These full-flavored, nutty tasting chickpeas also score points in the kitchen through the fun factor. In summer they pimp up salads with tasty protein power, in winter it’s soups and stews. They round off vibrant bowls as a delicious source of protein and a way of keeping you feeling full. Chickpeas achieved stardom in two classics of Middle Eastern cuisine: falafel and hummus. Dried chickpeas need to be soaked overnight and then boiled for at least half an hour. Salt will speed up the cooking, whereas anything acidic will slow it down. If you’re too impatient for that, simply grab a can of chickpeas – they can be eaten straight away.
Hummus: a tasty base for protein power
This creamy puree of chickpeas and sesame paste is a real jack of all trades. You can transform it in thousands of ways by adding spices, vegetables and herbs to suit your taste buds. Hummus is delicious as a dip or as a side dish similar to mashed potatoes. You can serve dishes on a bed of hummus, use it as a seasoning, or dilute it and use it as a base for soups and sauces. And all with the great feeling of boosting your protein power with every spoonful.
Note: Since everyone’s health history and nutritional needs are so different, please make sure that you talk with your doctor and a registered dietitian to get advice about the diet and exercise plan that‘s right for you.