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How to Soak and Cook Dried Chickpeas : Everything You Need to Know.
Dried chickpeas are a versatile and nutritious ingredient, perfect for making pasta dishes, soups, salads, and side dishes. Unlike canned or pre-cooked chickpeas, however, they require a bit of planning because they need to be soaked before cooking.
In this guide, you’ll learn how to cook dried chickpeas after soaking, how long they take to cook, how to prepare them in a regular pot or a pressure cooker, and what to do if you forgot to soak them.
Once they’re cooked, you can use them in countless recipes just like cooked chickpeas.
Why Soak Dried Chickpeas?
Soaking allows dried chickpeas to gradually rehydrate, reducing the cooking time and helping them cook more evenly.
It also helps remove some of the naturally occurring compounds found in legumes that may make them harder to digest.
For the best results, soak the chickpeas in cold water for at least 8–12 hours, or preferably overnight.
If you’re short on time, you’ll also find a quick-soaking method for dried chickpeas later in this guide.
How to Cook Soaked Dried Chickpeas
Once the chickpeas have been soaked, the cooking process is very simple.
- Drain the chickpeas and discard the soaking water.
- Rinse them under running water.
- Transfer them to a large pot.
- Cover them with plenty of fresh water.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat.
- Cook until the chickpeas are tender.
During cooking, some foam may form on the surface. This is completely normal and can be removed with a slotted spoon.
It’s best to add the salt toward the end of the cooking time so it doesn’t slow down the chickpeas as they soften.
Cooking Time for Soaked Dried Chickpeas
The cooking time depends on the variety of chickpeas, how long they’ve been stored, and the type of pot you use.
As a general guide:
- Regular pot: 90–120 minutes
- Stovetop pressure cooker: about 30–40 minutes after it reaches pressure
- Electric pressure cooker: generally 35–45 minutes, following the manufacturer’s instructions
Before draining the chickpeas, it’s always a good idea to taste one to make sure it has reached your preferred level of tenderness.
How to Cook Dried Chickpeas in a Pressure Cooker
A pressure cooker is the ideal method if you want to significantly reduce the cooking time.
After soaking, transfer the chickpeas to the pressure cooker, cover them with water, and cook them according to the manufacturer’s instructions for your specific model.
Once the cooking time is over, allow the pressure to release completely before opening the lid.
How to Cook Dried Chickpeas Without Soaking
Although soaking is the recommended method, you can also cook dried chickpeas without soaking them first.
In this case, you’ll need to increase the cooking time significantly, and the chickpeas may not cook as evenly, especially if they have been stored for a long time.
If you can plan ahead, soaking is still the best option.
Quick Soak Method for Dried Chickpeas
Forgot to soak your chickpeas?
You can use a quicker method instead.
Place the chickpeas in a pot with plenty of water, bring them to a boil for about 2 minutes, then turn off the heat. Let the chickpeas sit in the hot water for about 1 hour before cooking them as usual.
This method can be helpful when you’re short on time, although the traditional overnight soak is still the best option.
How to Tell When Chickpeas Are Cooked
Chickpeas are done when they are tender but still hold their shape.
To check if they’re cooked, simply taste one or gently mash it with a fork.
Avoid overcooking them if you plan to use them in salads. If you’re making soups, purees, or hummus, you can cook them a little longer until they’re softer.
How to Store Cooked Chickpeas
Once the chickpeas are cooked, let them cool completely.
You can store them:
- In the refrigerator: for 3–4 days in an airtight container.
- In the freezer: for up to 3 months, divided into portions.
That way, you’ll always have cooked chickpeas ready to use in your favorite recipes.
How to Use Cooked Chickpeas
Once cooked, chickpeas can be used in a wide variety of recipes.
If you’re looking for some easy ideas, you’ll also find these recipes on the blog:
👉 How to Cook Canned Chickpeas – a helpful guide with plenty of tips for turning canned chickpeas into delicious meals.
👉 Canned Chickpeas with Tomato Sauce – a simple and flavorful recipe, perfect as a main dish or a side.
👉 Rice and Chickpeas – a complete, nutritious, and easy-to-make meal.
How to Cook Dried Chickpeas with Pasta
Cooked chickpeas are also perfect for making the classic Italian pasta and chickpeas dish.
You can use them whole or blend some of them to create a creamier sauce. Add rosemary, sage, or a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil for a simple yet flavorful meal.
How to Cook Chickpeas in Tomato Sauce
Cooked chickpeas are also perfect for making a delicious tomato-based stew.
Simply sauté them with a light soffritto and tomato purée to create a simple, flavorful dish that’s perfect any time of year.
If you’d like a step-by-step version, you’ll find the full recipe for Chickpeas in Tomato Sauce on the blog.
Nutritional Benefits of Chickpeas
Chickpeas are naturally rich in plant-based protein, fiber, and complex carbohydrates.
They also provide important minerals such as iron, magnesium, and potassium, along with B vitamins and folate.
Thanks to their high fiber content, chickpeas help promote fullness and are an excellent ingredient for creating balanced, satisfying meals.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How long should dried chickpeas be soaked?
Ideally, soak them for 8–12 hours, preferably overnight.
Can I add baking soda?
Some people add a small amount of baking soda to help soften the chickpeas, but it isn’t necessary.
When should I add the salt?
It’s best to add the salt toward the end of the cooking time.
Can I freeze cooked chickpeas?
Yes. Once they’ve cooled completely, cooked chickpeas can be frozen for up to about 3 months.
How to soak and cook dried chickpeas: conclusion
Personally, in my everyday cooking, I prefer using canned chickpeas because they let me prepare quick meals without having to plan ahead for soaking and long cooking times.
That said, I wanted to create this guide because I know many people prefer starting with dried chickpeas or like to cook a larger batch to store for later.
Once they’re cooked, you can use them just like canned chickpeas to make soups, pasta dishes, side dishes, and many other recipes.
