To soften crispy chickpeas, there are a few methods you can try. One popular method is the long soak method, where you soak the chickpeas in water for an extended period of time. This allows the chickpeas to rehydrate and become softer.
To start, you'll need a large bowl to hold the chickpeas. Add the chickpeas to the bowl and cover them with several inches of water. It's important to add plenty of water, as the chickpeas will triple in size as they rehydrate. This ensures that the chickpeas are fully submerged and can absorb as much water as possible.
Once the chickpeas are in the bowl and covered with water, let them soak for at least 8 hours or overnight. This gives the chickpeas enough time to soften and become tender. During the soaking process, you may notice that the chickpeas absorb some of the water and expand in size.
After the soaking period, you can proceed to cook the chickpeas. Drain the soaking water and rinse the chickpeas thoroughly. This helps remove any impurities and excess starch from the chickpeas. Rinsing also helps to improve the texture and flavor of the cooked chickpeas.
Now, you can cook the soaked chickpeas using your preferred method. You can boil them in fresh water until they are soft and tender, usually taking around 1 to 1.5 hours. Alternatively, you can also pressure cook the chickpeas for a quicker cooking time.
Once the chickpeas are cooked to your desired level of tenderness, you can use them in various recipes. They can be used in salads, stews, curries, or even mashed into hummus. They will have a softer texture compared to crispy chickpeas and will be easier to bite into.
In my personal experience, I have found that the long soak method is an effective way to soften chickpeas. It requires some planning ahead, as the chickpeas need to be soaked overnight, but the results are worth it. The softened chickpeas have a creamy texture and a more pleasant mouthfeel compared to crispy chickpeas. They also absorb flavors better when used in recipes, making them a versatile ingredient in cooking.
To summarize, to soften crispy chickpeas, the long soak method is a great option. Soak the chickpeas in water for at least 8 hours or overnight, ensuring they are fully submerged. After soaking, drain and rinse the chickpeas before cooking them to your desired tenderness. Enjoy the softer and more flavorful chickpeas in your favorite dishes!