They are one of the earliest cultivated vegetables; 7,500 years ago, old-remains have been found in the Middle East (Turkey). In Spain they are often used cold in different tapas and salads Ground roasted chickpeas were used to substitute for coffee in Germany.And, in the Middle East, they are often cooked and ground into a paste and mixed with tahini, sesame seed paste to form the famous “Hummus bethini” appetizer! They can also be roasted, spiced, and eaten as a snack. In Burma chickpeas are grounded into flour that serve as a coating to vegetables. In Philippines, Chickpeas are preserved in sugar syrup are served as sweets.They are often used in veggie burgers as a low fat alternative to meat and will be used in your cakes recipes to replace flour as of today!

Chickpeas also known as Garbanzo beans are a good source of manganese, copper, folic acid, calcium, iron and are an important source of proteins and fiber.
Each cup of chickpeas contains 12g of fiber which is half the daily recommended allowance.It provides 296 calories and is low in fat.
Chickpeas’s high fiber content prevents blood sugar levels from rising too rapidly after a meal, making these beans suitable for individuals with diabetes.
Chickpeas provide saponins; a plant chemical that has been shown to control cholesterol by preventing its absorption and increasing its excretion. It also neutralizes enzymes in the intestines that may cause cancer. And, may boost the immune system and promote wound healing!
Presoak chickpeas during at least 4 hours in order to reduce flatulence-related substances like raffinose and reduce cooking time!
Ingredients (for 16 persons):
Cooking spray for greasing
2 cups of cooked chickpeas
3 eggs
¼ tsp of Vanilla powder
2 tbsp baking powder
¾ cup powder sugar
½ cup marmalade
100g melted dark chocolate (optional)
Method of preparation:
1. Pre-heat oven to 375 degrees. Spray the bottom of a 9-inch
spring form pan with a non-stick cooking spray. Dust lightly
with flour.
2. In a food processor, place the chickpeas, eggs, vanilla, sugar, baking powder and mix. Mix altogether with the marmalade and add the dark melted chocolate (bain-marie).
3. Spread batter evenly in prepared pan.
4. Bake 25 to 30 minutes or until toothpick inserted in centre of cake comes out clean. Place on cooling rack for 5 minutes.

Calories per piece: 95 calories (without melted dark chocolate) Makes 16 servings

Calories per piece: 127 calories (with melted dark chocolate) Makes 16 servings

Dietitian Nicole Maftoum