Description
This recipe for Perfect Instant Pot Chickpeas offers a quick and easy way to prepare tender, flavorful chickpeas using an Instant Pot. With aromatic spices and fresh lemon juice, these chickpeas can be used in a variety of meals like salads, stews, or as a protein-rich snack.
Ingredients
Scale
Chickpeas and Liquid
- 1 cup Dried Chickpeas (Rinse thoroughly before use.)
- 3 cups Water
Seasonings & Aromatics
- 1 teaspoon Salt (Adjust based on taste preference.)
- 1 tablespoon Olive Oil (Can be used to sauté aromatics.)
- 1 teaspoon Cumin
- 1 teaspoon Paprika
- 2 cloves Garlic (Minced.)
- 1 medium Onion (Chopped.)
Finishing Touches
- 2 tablespoons Lemon Juice (Freshly squeezed.)
- 1 handful Fresh Herbs (Chopped parsley or cilantro, optional.)
Instructions
- Rinse Chickpeas: Rinse the dried chickpeas under cold water using a fine-mesh strainer to remove any dirt or debris.
- Sauté Aromatics: Set your Instant Pot to sauté mode. Add olive oil and heat for about one minute to warm the oil.
- Cook Onion: Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3 to 5 minutes until it becomes translucent and slightly golden, enhancing the flavor base.
- Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Add Chickpeas and Water: Add the rinsed chickpeas and pour in the water, making sure the chickpeas are fully submerged.
- Season: Sprinkle in salt, cumin, and paprika, then stir well to evenly distribute the seasonings throughout the mixture.
- Pressure Cook: Secure the lid on the Instant Pot, set the pressure valve to sealing, and cook on high pressure for 35 minutes to tenderize the chickpeas.
- Release Pressure: Allow the pressure to release naturally for 10-15 minutes, then switch the valve to venting to release any remaining steam safely.
- Stir Chickpeas: Remove the lid carefully and gently stir the chickpeas to combine all flavors.
- Add Lemon Juice: Stir in the freshly squeezed lemon juice, which brightens the overall flavor and adds a fresh acidity.
- Garnish and Serve: Optionally, garnish with chopped fresh herbs such as parsley or cilantro and serve warm as desired.
Notes
- Rinsing the chickpeas thoroughly helps remove any dust or impurities.
- Natural pressure release prevents chickpeas from breaking apart due to rapid pressure changes.
- Adjust salt to your taste depending on dietary needs or preferences.
- For softer chickpeas, you can soak them overnight before cooking, though this is optional.
- Use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor impact.
