Precooking Chickpeas

• 1 pound (500 g) dried chickpeas, preferably organic
• ½ teaspoon baking soda

Soak the chickpeas in a large bowl, adding enough cold water to cover them by about 4 inches (10 cm). Let soak for 10 to 12 hours or overnight.

The next morning, rinse the chickpeas under cold water, place them in a large pot, and add water to cover by about 4 inches (10 cm). Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, cook for 10 minutes, drain in a colander, and rinse well under warm runni