Chickpea Crazy

It’s a weird-looking little thing.

It even has a different name.

The chickpea.

But, it’s one delicious bean! (the garbanzo bean)

I always love to share a great recipe, and try to share some of the great health benefits of  the ingredients I use.

So today I’ll share on the chickpea!

Fiber, protein, and iron fill this unique food, and it also stabilizes blood sugar.

We are all familiar with the common dip we call Hummus. What a great snack or appetizer this dip makes when coupled with vegetables. And there are so many different ways to make it!

•  Roasted Red Pepper
• Garlic
• Chipotle
• Ranch
• Beet
• Green Herb
• Toasted Tomato

And the list can go on!

The classic recipe for Hummus goes like this:

• 
  2 cups canned garbanzo beans, drained

• 1/3 cup tahini

• 1/4 cup lemon juice

• 1 teaspoon salt

• 2 cloves garlic, halved

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 teaspoon minced fresh parsley

Serve this healthy dip for lunch or a snack with crackers, cut up veggies or spread on toast or pita breads. Big hit!

But, here’s a recipe you could do, if you wanted to throw a little ‘twist’ on this bean.  Something different for your family or guests…….

It’s a Dessert Hummus! …… Yes, I said that right. I had some guests over one night, and wanted to try this neat recipe out. What a hit it was, and my kids loved it too!

Here is how you make the dessert hummus:

2 cups can chickpeas, drained 
1/4 cup natural peanut butter
1/4 cup pure maple syrup
1/2 tsp vanilla extract
1/4 cup  dark chocolate chips

Mix all ingredients, but the chocolate chips in a blender until smooth. It should have a smooth, even consistency. Once mixed, add the chocolate chips. I usually use carob chips, or you could try dark chocolate chips.

Scoop into a bowl, and serve with apple slices and graham crackers. It’s SO good!.

 

It’s always fun to try something new!  Enjoy