Chickpeas Everywhere

Hummus is perhaps the most well-known food product made from chickpeas. This creamy dip, made from blended chickpeas, tahini, olive oil, garlic, and lemon juice, is a staple in Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisine. It’s widely available in supermarkets in various flavors, including classic, roasted red pepper, garlic, and even chocolate. 

Chickpea pasta is a popular gluten-free alternative to traditional pasta made from wheat. Brands like Banza and Explore Cuisine have made chickpea-based pasta widely available in stores. This pasta is high in protein and fiber, making it an excellent choice for those following a plant-based or gluten-free diet. 

Roasted chickpeas are a crunchy, healthy snack option that has gained popularity in recent years. These snacks are seasoned with spices like sea salt, garlic, or BBQ flavoring. Brands like The Good Bean and Biena offer a variety of roasted chickpea snacks, marketed as a high-protein, gluten-free alternative to traditional chips or nuts. 

Chickpea flour, also known as besan or gram flour, is used as a key ingredient in many gluten-free and plant-based recipes. It is commonly used in dishes such as pakoras (fried fritters), socca (a savory pancake), and as a binder in vegan recipes. It's also available in many baked goods, as it adds structure and a slightly nutty flavor. 

Many plant-based meat products incorporate chickpeas as a primary ingredient. Brands like Impossible Foods and Beyond Meat have introduced products that mix chickpeas with other plant-based ingredients to create burgers, nuggets, and other meat alternatives. Gardein and MorningStar Farms also offer chickpea-based meat alternatives. 

 Chickpea salads are available in pre-made versions at many grocery stores, often as a convenient, protein-packed option for lunch or a side dish. These salads typically feature chickpeas mixed with vegetables, herbs, and light dressings. Some brands even sell chickpea-based tuna alternatives, which offer a plant-based take on the classic tuna salad. 

Chickpea cookies and other sweet snacks are emerging as a healthier, high-protein alternative to traditional cookies. Brands like Chickpea Snacks and Lenny & Larry's have created chickpea-based cookies that are lower in sugar and higher in protein compared to their traditional counterparts. 

Chickpea chips have become a popular snack in the health food aisle. Brands like Popchips, Hippeas, and Frieda's offer chickpea-based chips that are crispy, flavorful, and gluten-free. They come in a variety of flavors like white cheddar, sea salt, and sriracha. 

Chickpea protein powder is used in some protein shakes and dietary supplements as a plant-based protein source. Brands like The Protein Works and Orgain have introduced chickpea protein powders, which are used for post-workout recovery, meal replacement shakes, or as an additive in smoothies and baking. 

Chickpeas are increasingly used in vegan and gluten-free baked goods. They are often used in cookies, cakes, and brownies to provide moisture and structure. Products from brands like Simple Mills and Schar incorporate chickpea flour to create delicious, allergy-friendly treats. 

Many brands offer canned chickpeas or pre-cooked chickpeas, which are convenient options for those looking to add chickpeas to salads, soups, stews, and curries without the need to cook them from scratch. These are commonly found in supermarkets and health food stores. 

Chickpea-based ice cream is a relatively new innovation in the plant-based dessert world. Brands like Chickpea Ice Cream offer a dairy-free alternative to traditional ice cream, using chickpeas as a base ingredient to create a creamy, rich texture.