Chickpeas are a versatile and delicious legume that can be used in a variety of dishes. They are a good source of protein and fiber, and they have a nutty flavor that pairs well with many other ingredients.
Chickpeas can be used in soups, salads, stews, and even desserts. If you’re looking for a tasty way to add more vegetables to your diet, chickpeas are a great option.
Although chickpeas are a healthy and delicious food, there are some people who don’t like them or may not be able to eat them due to allergies or sensitivities.
If you’re looking for a substitute for chickpeas, there are several options available. Here are some of the best substitution for chickpeas that will give your meals a nutritional boost.
Table of Contents
13 Best Substitution for Chickpeas
The best substitute for chickpeas are lentils and black beans. You can also use green peas, cannellini beans, and mung beans to substitute chickpeas.
1. Lentils
Lentils are a type of legume that are part of the bean family. They are small, round, and have a variety of colors including green, brown, and red.
Lentils are a good source of protein, fiber, iron, and folate. They are also low in calories and fat.
Lentils can be used as a chickpea replacement in many recipes. They can be used in soups, stews, salads, and even desserts.
2. Black Beans
Black beans are a type of legume that is high in protein, fiber, and antioxidants.
They are small, round, and black in color. Black beans are popular in Latin American cuisine and are often used in dishes such as black bean soup, black bean dip, and black bean enchiladas.
They make a great substitution for chickpeas in recipes like hummus, falafel, and black bean brownies.
3. Green Peas
If you’re looking for a substitute for chickpeas that has a similar flavor and texture, green peas are a good option.
Green peas are also a good source of protein and fiber, and they are often used in soups, salads, and stews. They can also be eaten alone as a snack.
They’re an excellent replacement for chickpeas in any recipe, and they’re also a good option if you’re looking for a lower-calorie food.
4. Cannellini Beans
Cannellini beans are a type of white bean that is often used in Italian cuisine. They are small and oval-shaped with a smooth texture. Cannellini beans have a mild flavor and are a good source of protein and fiber.
Cannellini beans can be used in place of chickpeas in many recipes, including soups, salads, and stews. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can also use cannellini beans in place of chickpeas in recipes that call for fried chickpeas.
5. Great Northern Beans
Great northern beans are another type of white bean that can be used as a substitute for chickpeas. They are slightly larger than cannellini beans and have a similar mild flavor.
They have a similar texture and flavor, making them a good option for dishes like hummus or soups.
Great northern beans are popular in North American cuisine and are often used in dishes such as chili and white chicken chili.
6. Mung Beans
Mung beans are a type of legume that is often used in Asian cuisine. They are small and have a green color. Mung beans are a good source of protein, fiber, and vitamins.
Mung beans have a slightly sweet flavor and are often used in soups and stir-fries. They can also be sprouted and used as a healthy addition to salads.
If you want to use them as a replacement for chickpeas, they can also be ground into a flour that can be used in recipes like falafel or pakora.
7. Split Peas
If you’re looking for a substitute for chickpeas that has a similar texture, then split peas are a good option. They are small and have a green or yellow color.
Split peas are a good source of protein, fiber, and iron. They have a slightly different flavor, but they can be used in many of the same dishes.
Split peas are often used in soups and stews, but they can also be used as a replacement for chickpeas in dishes like hummus or falafel.
8. Lima Beans
Lima beans are a type of legume that is often used in Latin American cuisine. They are large and have a green color.
Like chickpeas, they are a good source of protein and fiber, making them a filling addition to any meal.
They have a creamy texture and a nutty flavor that is similar to chickpeas. Lima beans can be used in a variety of ways. For example, lima beans can be mashed and used as a spread for sandwiches oradded to soups and stews for an extra boost of protein.
9. Kidney Beans
Kidney beans are a versatile and delicious legume that can be used as a substitute for chickpeas in many recipes. They are large and have a red color and are often used in Mexican and South American cuisine.
They have a similar nutty flavor and firm texture, making them an ideal ingredient in dishes like hummus, curries, and salads. Kidney beans are also a good source of protein, fiber, and iron, making them a nutritious addition to any diet.
When using kidney beans as a substitute for chickpeas, it is important to cook them thoroughly to avoid any potential food poisoning.
10. Soybeans
If you’re looking for a plant-based protein that can be used as a substitute for chickpeas, soybeans are a good option. They are large and have a green color.
Soybeans are a complete protein, which means they contain all of the essential amino acids your body needs. They’re also a good source of fiber, iron, and calcium.
Soybeans can be used in soups, stews, and curries, or roasted and eaten on their own. They can also be ground into flour or made into milk and cheese. So for those who are looking for a chickpea substitute, soybeans are a delicious and nutritious option.
11. Edamame
Edamame is a type of soybean that is often used in Asian cuisine. They are small and have a green color. It has a similar texture to chickpeas, making it a great substitute in recipes.
They can be enjoyed cooked or raw and can be added to soups, salads, stir-fries, and more. Whether you’re looking to add some extra protein to your salad or create a hearty vegetarian chili, edamame is the perfect ingredient.
Edamame is also a good source of vitamins and minerals, including iron, calcium, and magnesium. For those looking for a delicious and nutritious way to add more plants to their diet, edamame is a perfect choice.
12. Peanuts
Chickpeas can also be substituted with peanuts. Peanuts are a common ingredient in many Asian dishes. Like chickpeas, peanuts are high in protein and fiber, making them a nutritious addition to any meal.
Peanuts have a similar flavor profile to chickpeas, with a slightly nutty taste that complements the flavors of other ingredients. In addition, peanuts provide the same textural contrast as chickpeas, making them an ideal replacement in recipes.
Best of all, peanuts are widely available and relatively inexpensive, making them a convenient and budget-friendly substitution for chickpeas.
13. Hazelnuts
For those times when chickpeas are not available, hazelnuts make an excellent substitute. While the two ingredients have different flavors, hazelnuts can easily be used in place of chickpeas in most recipes.
They can be ground into a meal and used as a thickener, or roasted and added to salads for extra flavor and texture. And like chickpeas, hazelnuts are also high in protein and fiber, making them a nutritious option for vegetarians and vegans.
So next time you’re in a pinch, reach for hazelnuts instead of chickpeas – your dish will thank you for it.
Related Questions
What Does Chickpea Taste Like?
Chickpeas have a nutty, earthy flavor that is similar to other legumes. They are also slightly sweet and have a creamy texture.
When cooked, they become tender but still have a firm bite. Chickpeas are often used in savory dishes like curries and stews, but can also be used in sweet dishes like desserts and pancakes.
How to Cook Chickpeas?
There are several ways to cook chickpeas. The most common method is to simmer them in water until they are soft. This can take anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the type of chickpea you are using.
You can also cook chickpeas in a pressure cooker, which will reduce the cooking time to about 15 minutes.
If you’re short on time, you can also cook chickpeas in the microwave. Just add water and cook for 3-4 minutes.
No matter how you cook them, be sure to drain and rinse the chickpeas before using them in a recipe. This will remove any excess water and help them to retain their shape.
Are Chickpeas and Garbanzo Beans the Same Thing?
Chickpeas and garbanzo beans are actually the same thing. Both terms can be used interchangeably.
The word “chickpea” comes from the Latin word for “cicada,” which is what these legumes resemble. The word “garbanzo” comes from the Spanish word for “bean.”
So whether you call them chickpeas or garbanzo beans, they’re the same delicious legume.
What Can You Substitute for Chickpeas in Hummus?
If you’re looking for a substitute for chickpeas in hummus, there are several options available.
Legumes like white beans or lentils can also be used in place of chickpeas. These legumes have a similar texture and will absorb the flavors of the other ingredients in the recipe. If you’re not a fan of legumes, you can also use edamame in place of chickpeas.
Final Words
If you’re looking for a delicious, nutritious, and versatile legume to add to your diet, chickpeas are a great option. But if you’re looking for a change of pace, there are plenty of other excellent legumes out there that can also provide all the nutrients and flavor you’re looking for.
So next time you’re in a bind, reach for one of these substitutes and enjoy your hummus worry-free.
I hope this helps! Let me know if you have any other questions in the comments below.
Take care!
