The Amazing Chickpea

Chickpeas are a staple of Mediterranean cuisine, and no wonder: They are loaded with nutrients, inexpensive, and endlessly versatile—they can be put to more uses than just about any legume I know. Well beyond Indian stews, such as Chana Masala, they can be pureed, fried, and even featured in a classic Italian dish, Pasta e Ceci. Canned chickpeas are fine to use for most preparations, but dried chickpeas are so much more flavorful that it’s worth it to buy them dried and soak them. It’s not difficult, of course; the key is to plan ahead so that they’re hydrated when you need them.