How Long Does It Take to Boil Chickpeas?

Chickpeas soaked overnight in water soften after boiling for an average of 60-75 minutes in a regular pot, or 15-20 minutes in a pressure cooker. The answer to how many minutes chickpeas take to boil can vary by a few minutes depending on the chickpeas' freshness and the soaking time. These times are given assuming medium-sized chickpeas of standard freshness. Since chickpeas are a thick-skinned legume, when boiled without sufficient soaking the cooking time noticeably lengthens and the interior softens later than the outside. During soaking, chickpeas absorb water and swell, which both shortens the cooking time and allows for a more even texture. The chickpeas' age also affects cooking time; chickpeas that have been stored for a long time may soften more slowly than fresh ones. Adding a pinch of baking soda to the soaking water can also help the water be absorbed more easily by the chickpeas. How Are Chickpeas Boiled Properly?For chickpeas to cook with an even, soft texture, a few steps should be followed. Chickpeas should be soaked in cold water for at least 8-12 hours before boiling.The soaking water should be drained and the chickpeas boiled in fresh water, for 60-75 minutes in a regular pot, or 15-20 minutes in a pressure cooker.Adding a pinch of baking soda to the cooking water can help the chickpeas soften in less time.Salt should be added after the chickpeas have softened; salt added too early can prolong the cooking time.What Should Be Considered When Boiling Chickpeas?To preserve the nutritional value of chickpeas, it is recommended not to boil them longer than necessary and to remove them from the heat as soon as they soften. Some of the cooking water can be saved to add body to chickpea dishes; this water also contains some of the water-soluble nutrients from the chickpeas. Chickpeas should not be left at room temperature for long after boiling, and should be refrigerated promptly. Not fully covering the pot while boiling chickpeas also helps reduce the risk of boil-over. How Do Chickpea Variety and Age Affect Boiling Time?The size and age of chickpeas are also important factors affecting boiling time. Large chickpeas generally soften somewhat more slowly than small ones; for this reason, when different sizes of chickpeas are used in the same recipe, the cooking time needs to be observed and adjusted accordingly. Chickpeas that have sat on shelves for a long time can also soften more slowly than freshly harvested ones. For this reason, the stated times are a starting point; the chickpeas' actual texture should be checked by lightly mashing with a finger. What Are Common Mistakes When Boiling Chickpeas?Trying to boil chickpeas directly without soaking causes the cooking time to be unnecessarily long and the chickpeas to cook unevenly. Adding salt at the start of boiling can cause the chickpeas' skins to toughen. Overcooking in a pressure cooker can also cause the chickpeas to break down into a mushy texture. The answer to how many minutes chickpeas take to boil: 60-75 minutes in a regular pot after soaking, or 15-20 minutes in a pressure cooker. With proper soaking and cooking time, chickpeas can be prepared with both an even texture and easy digestibility. The chickpeas' texture can be adjusted to the recipe, cooked firmer for salads and softer for hummus. Cooked chickpeas can also be frozen in measured portions for future use.