Olivia Carter
Chickpeas – delicious, nutritious, and versatile legumes that can be used in a variety of recipes, from salads to stews to hummus. If you are a fan of this superfood and own a multi cooker, you’re in luck! Cooking chickpeas in a multi cooker is not only fast and convenient, but it also ensures that your legumes are perfectly cooked every time.
So, how do you cook chickpeas in a multi cooker?
First, start by soaking the chickpeas overnight. This step is essential as it helps to soften the chickpeas and reduce cooking time. Simply place the chickpeas in a bowl, cover them with water, and let them soak for at least 8 hours.
After soaking, drain and rinse the chickpeas. This will help remove any impurities and make your cooked chickpeas taste even better. Next, transfer the soaked chickpeas to the multi cooker and add enough water to cover them completely. You can also add some salt or seasoning at this stage to enhance the flavor.
Now comes the cooking part.
Select the appropriate cooking mode on your multi cooker. Most multi cookers have a pre-set mode for cooking legumes, which usually takes around 30-40 minutes. If your multi cooker doesn’t have a specific mode, you can manually set the cooking time to around 45 minutes on high pressure.
Once the cooking time is up, allow the pressure to release naturally for a few minutes before opening the lid. Check if the chickpeas are tender and cooked through. If they are still slightly firm, you can cook them for a few more minutes.
And voila! Your perfectly cooked chickpeas are ready to be used in your favorite recipes. You can add them to salads, make hummus, or even use them as a protein-rich topping for your soups and curries. The possibilities are endless!
So, next time you’re craving a delicious chickpea dish, grab your multi cooker and give this simple method a try!
Essential Tips for Cooking Chickpeas in a Multi Cooker
If you love cooking chickpeas and own a multi cooker, you’re in luck! This versatile kitchen appliance can make cooking chickpeas a breeze. With the right techniques and tips, you can have perfectly cooked chickpeas every time.
1. Soak the Chickpeas
Before cooking chickpeas in a multi cooker, it’s important to soak them. Start by rinsing the chickpeas under cold water to remove any impurities. Then, place the chickpeas in a bowl and cover them with enough water. Let them soak for at least 8 hours or overnight for best results. Soaking helps to soften the chickpeas, reduce cooking time, and improve digestibility.
2. Adjust the Cooking Time
When using a multi cooker to cook chickpeas, it’s important to adjust the cooking time according to the desired texture. For firm chickpeas, cook them for about 20-25 minutes. For softer chickpeas that are perfect for hummus or stews, cook them for about 30-45 minutes. It’s recommended to start with a shorter cooking time and check the texture periodically until they reach your desired consistency.
Remember, the cooking time may vary depending on the size and freshness of the chickpeas, so it’s always best to keep an eye on them while cooking.
3. Don’t Forget to Season
While cooking chickpeas in a multi cooker, make sure to season them according to your taste. Adding salt, herbs, or spices to the cooking water can enhance the flavor of the chickpeas. You can also add garlic, onions, or bay leaves for extra aroma. Experiment and find your favorite seasonings to make your cooked chickpeas even more delicious.
However, keep in mind that if you’re planning to use the cooked chickpeas in a recipe that requires further seasoning, you may want to keep the cooking water relatively plain to allow for more versatile use.
With these essential tips, you can confidently cook chickpeas in your multi cooker and enjoy their nutty, creamy goodness in a variety of dishes. Whether you’re making a hearty soup, a tasty salad, or a flavorful curry, perfectly cooked chickpeas will add a delicious and nutritious touch to your meals.
Choosing the Right Type of Chickpeas
When it comes to cooking chickpeas in a multi cooker, selecting the right type of chickpeas is essential for achieving the desired texture and flavor in your dishes. There are mainly two types of chickpeas available:
- Regular Chickpeas: These are the most commonly used type of chickpeas and are also known as kabuli or Desi chickpeas. They have a light beige color and a smooth texture. Regular chickpeas are great for making hummus, soups, and stews as they hold their shape well during cooking.
- Black Chickpeas: Also known as kala chana or Bengal gram, black chickpeas are smaller and have a dark brown color. They have a nuttier flavor and a slightly firmer texture compared to regular chickpeas. Black chickpeas are commonly used in Indian cuisine to make curries, chaats, and snacks.
When choosing chickpeas for your multi cooker recipes, consider the specific dish you are planning to prepare and the texture you want to achieve. Regular chickpeas are versatile and suitable for a wide range of recipes, while black chickpeas offer a distinct flavor and are ideal for Indian dishes.
It’s worth noting that regardless of the type of chickpeas you choose, it is recommended to soak them overnight or for at least 6-8 hours before cooking them in a multi cooker. This helps to reduce the cooking time and allows the chickpeas to become tender and evenly cooked.
By selecting the right type of chickpeas, you can ensure that your multi cooker dishes turn out delicious and satisfying every time!
Soaking and Preparing Chickpeas
Before cooking chickpeas in a multi cooker, it’s important to soak them to improve their texture and shorten cooking time. Here’s how to do it:
Step 1: Sorting the Chickpeas
Start by spreading the dry chickpeas on a clean, flat surface, and remove any damaged or discolored ones. This step helps ensure that you only cook the best quality chickpeas.
Step 2: Rinsing the Chickpeas
Place the sorted chickpeas in a colander and rinse them thoroughly under cold running water. This helps remove any dirt or impurities that may be present.
Step 3: Soaking the Chickpeas
Transfer the rinsed chickpeas to a large bowl and cover them with water. Use at least three times the amount of water as chickpeas. Soak the chickpeas for a minimum of 8 hours or overnight. This process rehydrates the chickpeas and softens their texture.
Note: If you’re short on time, you can use the quick soak method. Place the chickpeas in a pot, cover them with water, and bring to a boil. Once boiling, remove from heat, cover, and let them soak for 1 hour.
Step 4: Draining and Rinsing Again
After soaking, drain the chickpeas in a colander and rinse them once more under cold running water. This step helps remove any residual dirt and reduce excess starch, resulting in a tastier final dish.
Now that your chickpeas are soaked and ready, you can proceed with cooking them in your multi cooker following your desired recipe.
Using Your Multi Cooker for Chickpea Cooking
If you love cooking with chickpeas, your multi cooker can be a versatile and convenient kitchen appliance to use. Whether you’re making hummus, falafel, or adding chickpeas to soups and stews, the multi cooker can simplify the cooking process and produce delicious results. Here are some tips for using your multi cooker to cook chickpeas:
1. Soaking the Chickpeas
Before cooking chickpeas in your multi cooker, it’s recommended to soak them overnight. This helps to soften the chickpeas and reduce the cooking time. Place the dried chickpeas in a bowl and cover them with water. Let them soak for at least 8 hours or overnight. Drain and rinse the chickpeas before using them in your multi cooker.
2. Cooking Times
The cooking time for chickpeas in a multi cooker can vary depending on the brand and model of your appliance. Generally, cooking chickpeas in a multi cooker takes about 30-40 minutes on high pressure. However, it’s best to consult the manual of your specific multi cooker for precise cooking times and instructions.
3. Seasoning and Flavoring
While chickpeas can be delicious on their own, you can enhance their flavor by adding seasoning and other ingredients. Consider adding garlic, onions, bay leaves, or your favorite spices to infuse the chickpeas with additional taste. You can also experiment with different flavor combinations to create chickpeas that suit your preferences.
4. Versatile Cooking Modes
Most multi cookers offer various cooking modes, such as pressure cooking, slow cooking, and sautéing. When cooking chickpeas, you can use the pressure cooking mode for faster cooking times. If you prefer a slow-cooked texture, you can also use the slow cooking mode to achieve a softer consistency.
5. Storing Cooked Chickpeas
If you have leftover cooked chickpeas, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Cooked chickpeas can also be frozen for longer storage. Simply place them in a resealable freezer bag or container and freeze for up to 3 months.
With these tips, you can make the most out of your multi cooker when cooking chickpeas. Enjoy the convenience and deliciousness of homemade chickpea dishes with your versatile multi cooker!
Serving and Storing Cooked Chickpeas
Once the chickpeas are cooked and tender, they are versatile and can be used in various dishes. Here are some ideas for how to serve your cooked chickpeas:
- Add them to salads for extra texture and protein.
- Mash them up to make homemade hummus or falafel.
- Stir them into soups and stews for added substance.
- Roast them with spices to create a crunchy snack.
- Use them as a filling for vegetarian tacos or wraps.
When it comes to storing cooked chickpeas, it’s important to let them cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days, or you can freeze them for longer preservation. If freezing, divide the chickpeas into smaller portions or freeze them in an ice cube tray for easy portioning.
When you’re ready to use the stored chickpeas, remember to thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before incorporating them into your dishes. The texture may be slightly softer after freezing, but they will still be delicious and nutritious!
FAQ
Can I cook dried chickpeas in a multi cooker?
Yes, you can cook dried chickpeas in a multi cooker. Simply rinse the chickpeas and add them to the pot with enough water to cover them. Cook on high pressure for about 40 minutes, then let the pressure release naturally. Your chickpeas will be perfectly cooked and ready to use in any recipe.
How long does it take to cook chickpeas in a multi cooker?
The cooking time for chickpeas in a multi cooker will depend on whether you are using dried or canned chickpeas. If you are using dried chickpeas, it will take about 40 minutes of cooking time on high pressure, plus additional time for the pressure to release naturally. Canned chickpeas, on the other hand, only need to be heated through, which can be done in about 5-10 minutes.
