Method 1: Stovetop
Cooking canned chickpeas on the stovetop is the most straightforward method. All you need is a pot, some water, and your canned chickpeas.
Start by draining and rinsing your canned chickpeas in a colander. Then, add them to a pot with enough water to cover them. Bring the water to a boil and let the chickpeas simmer for 10-15 minutes until they are heated through and tender.
Drain the water from the pot and season the chickpeas with salt and pepper to taste. You can also add any other seasonings you prefer, such as garlic, cumin, or paprika. Serve your chickpeas as a simple side dish, in a salad, or use them as the base for a hummus or falafel recipe.
Method 2: Roasting
Roasting canned chickpeas in the oven is an easy way to add texture and flavor to your chickpeas. This method works well if you want to use your chickpeas in a salad or as a snack.
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Rinse and drain your canned chickpeas and spread them out in a single layer on a baking sheet. Toss the chickpeas with a drizzle of olive oil and any seasonings you prefer.
Roast the chickpeas in the oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are crispy and golden brown. Let them cool for a few minutes before serving. They taste great on their own, or you can use them to top a salad for added crunch.
Method 3: Slow Cooker
If you’re short on time or don’t want to watch over your chickpeas on the stovetop, you can use a slow cooker instead. This method requires a bit more prep work, but it’s hands-off and simple.
Start by rinsing and draining your canned chickpeas. Then, add them to your slow cooker with enough water to cover them. Cook on high heat for 2-3 hours or low heat for 4-5 hours until the chickpeas are tender.
Once your chickpeas are cooked, drain any excess water and season them to taste. You can use them in any recipe that calls for cooked chickpeas, such as soup or stew.
In Conclusion
No matter how you cook them, canned chickpeas are a versatile ingredient that can add flavor and nutrition to any dish. Whether you’re making a simple side dish or a more complicated recipe, these three methods will help you make the most of your canned chickpeas. Try them out and see which method you like best!