Lime Chickpeas

 

Kids love to snack. Instead of giving them sweet treats, how about giving them some healthy chickpeas loaded with protein. I like to use dried chickpeas. I have tried both steaming and boiling and we prefer boiled chickpeas. Steaming takes longer and the chickpeas are dry and powdery. Boiled chickpeas however are moist and crunchy. It is important to add salt to the water, just like how you cook pasta.



Dried Chickpeas

 

Ingredients (serves 3-4)

 

160g dried chickpeas

A generous pinch of salt, about 1/4 teaspoon

3-5 limes
 

Method

1. There is no need to  soak the chickpeas, just wash and drain them. Add the chickpeas to a small pot. Add some water to the pot. The water level should be about 1 inch above the chickpeas. Add salt to the water.


Water level about an inch above the chickpeas



2. Bring to boil and simmer for about 45-60 minutes. When the chickpeas are cooked, there should be very little water left and the chickpeas should be slightly bigger and a bit translucent. Check occasionally to ensure that there is always water in the pot. Add a bit of water when necessary.


Cooked Chickpeas. Liquid much reduced, but not dried out.



3.When slightly cooled, add some lime juice and serve. You can also add spices like cumin or garam masala according to your preference.