Chickpeas have a delicious nutlike flavour to them and a buttery, pasty texture! They are such a versatile ingredient – I like to add them to salads, make chickpeas flatbreads, hummus, use in curries and falafels as well as toasting them in the oven with some olive oil, spices and salt to make a heavenly crunchy snack!
Chickpeas are a legume often used in Middle Eastern and Indian cooking. They are a great source of vitamins and minerals, and have been shown to help lower cholesterol. They are a great source of insoluble and soluble fibre as well as manganese and iron for energy production.
- High fibre – Chickpeas, like other beans are rich in dietary fibre (soluble and insoluble fibre). Insoluble fibre helps to prevent constipation and increase the bulk of ones stool whereas soluble fibre forms a gel like substance in the digestive tract to make you feel fuller for longer and helps ferry out any unwanted cholesterol.
- High protein – Chickpeas are an excellent source of protein making them a great meat alternative for vegetarians and vegans. A meal high in protein will keep you feeling fuller for longer. Protein is an important macronutrient as it is an important building block of bones, muscles, cartilage, skin and blood! It also helps to build and repair tissues within your body!
- Weight loss – Chickepeas are excellent for weight loss due to the two points above – high fibre, high protein content and low GI. Add chickpeas to your salad to control your appetite and increase chance of satiety!
- Iron Boost – Chickpeas will boost your energy due to the iron content. Iron is essential for every day energy. This is particularly important for menstruating women, pregnant and growing children.
- Vitamins and minerals – Chickpeas also contain manganese, folate, copper, zinc and vitamins C & E!
Please leave a comment below and let me know how you incorporate these little gems into your diet! Head over to my recipe page to find a delicious Hummus recipe!
Enjoy!! xx
