Puree (Pasta) made from dried chickpeas

Chickpea Puree - A Delicious and Healthy Recipe

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 60-80 minutes
Total time: 75-95 minutes
Number of servings: 4-6

I invite you to discover together a chickpea puree recipe, an excellent choice for a healthy and flavorful meal. Chickpeas are a legume rich in protein, fiber, and vitamins, and this creamy puree will surely become a favorite in your kitchen. Additionally, it is a versatile option that can be served as an appetizer or a side dish.

The history of chickpea puree is fascinating, with deep roots in the culinary traditions of many cultures. It is a simple yet sophisticated recipe that brings together basic ingredients to create a refined dish.

Ingredients needed:
- 400 g dried chickpeas
- 60-70 ml olive oil (or to taste)
- Salt and white pepper, to taste
- Garlic, to taste (optional)
- 1 onion (for flavor)
- 1 carrot (for flavor)
- For garnish: fresh cucumbers and tomatoes or pickled cucumbers and sour peppers

Preparation of chickpea puree:

1. Preparing the chickpeas: Start by checking the chickpeas, removing any damaged ones. This step is essential to ensure that your puree will have a smooth texture and pleasant taste.

2. Washing the chickpeas: Place the chickpeas in a large colander and wash them under cold running water for about a minute. This will help remove impurities and dust.

3. Soaking the chickpeas: Transfer the chickpeas to a generous bowl, cover them with cold water, and let them soak for an hour. A more efficient alternative would be to leave them in the fridge overnight, which improves digestion and reduces cooking time.

4. Cooking the chickpeas: Once the chickpeas have soaked, drain the water and rinse the beans again. Place the chickpeas in a large pot, add fresh water (about 3 cups of water for each cup of chickpeas), and add the onion cut in half and the carrot sliced. Boil over medium heat for 60-80 minutes or until the beans are soft. It is important to check periodically, as the cooking time may vary depending on the age and quality of the chickpeas.

5. Saving the cooking liquid: Once the chickpeas are cooked, drain the beans, but remember to keep 3-4 cups of the liquid they were cooked in. This liquid will be essential for achieving the desired consistency of the puree.

6. Preparing the puree: Place the cooked chickpeas in a blender or food processor. Gradually add the olive oil while constantly mixing to achieve a creamy texture. Start with 60 ml of oil and adjust according to your preferences. Also, add a little of the cooking liquid until you achieve the desired consistency. Don't forget to season with salt and white pepper to taste. If you like garlic, add a few cloves for extra flavor.

7. Serving: Transfer the puree to a serving platter and decorate it with the reserved chickpeas, cucumber slices, tomatoes, or boiled carrot. You can also add a few fresh parsley leaves for a more vibrant look.

Useful tips:
- If you want a more intense flavor, try lightly frying the garlic before adding it to the puree.
- Chickpea puree pairs perfectly with warm flatbreads or crunchy toasts, turning it into a delicious appetizer.
- Feel free to experiment with different spices like cumin or paprika to give it a personalized touch.

Frequently asked questions:
- How can I make the chickpea puree creamier? By adding more cooking liquid and olive oil, you can adjust the texture of the puree to your liking.
- Can I use canned chickpeas? Yes, but you will need to reduce the cooking time. Rinse the canned chickpeas well before use.

Nutritional values (per serving):
- Calories: 200-250 kcal
- Protein: 10 g
- Fat: 10-15 g (due to olive oil)
- Fiber: 5-7 g

This chickpea puree is not just a healthy choice, but also a dish that can bring joy to your table. Whether you serve it as an appetizer, side dish, or even as a main course, remember that each bite will be an explosion of flavors and textures. So let's enjoy this simple yet refined recipe!