Have you ever heard of chickpea coffee? Yes, you read that right. It is an ingenious way to enjoy your morning cup of joe.
Chickpea coffee is made from roasted chickpeas that are ground and brewed just like regular coffee. Not only is it a delicious alternative to traditional coffee, but it’s also a healthier option. Chickpeas are high in protein and fiber, making this beverage a great way to start your day. Plus, it’s naturally gluten-free and vegan-friendly.
So, if you’re looking for a new coffee experience, keep reading since you may discover a new favorite.
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What is Chickpea Coffee?
Chickpea coffee is made by roasting and grinding chickpeas or garbanzo beans. The roasted chickpeas are ground into a fine powder, which can then be brewed like regular coffee. You can use a French press, drip coffee maker, or any other coffee brewing method to make chickpea coffee. The resulting beverage has a nutty and slightly sweet flavor.
One of the benefits of chickpea coffee is it’s caffeine-free, so you can enjoy it any time of day without worrying about getting the jitters. Chickpeas are also a great source of protein and fiber, making this beverage a healthy choice.
In addition to being a coffee substitute, chickpea coffee is also a great option for people allergic to coffee beans or sensitive to caffeine.
Making Chickpea Coffee
Preparing chickpea coffee is pretty straightforward. Here’s how to make it:
Roasting Process
To start, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
You can use canned or cooked chickpeas. Drain and rinse the canned chickpeas thoroughly. If using cooked chickpeas, ensure they are well-drained.
Rinse your chickpeas and pat them dry with a paper towel. Make sure you remove excess water.
Spread them out on a baking sheet and roast for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally until golden brown and crunchy. Let them cool completely before grinding.
Roasted chickpeas can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for several days.
Grinding Process
Using a coffee grinder, grind the roasted chickpeas into a fine powder. You can also use a food processor, but the coffee grinder will give you a finer grind. It’s important to note that chickpea coffee won’t be as finely ground as regular coffee, so expect a slightly different texture.
Brewing Process
Add the ground chickpeas to your coffee maker just as regular coffee. Use the same ratio of coffee to water that you usually would. Start with two tablespoons of ground chickpeas per 6 ounces of water and adjust to taste. You can also steep the ground chickpeas in hot water like you would with tea.
If desired, add cinnamon, nutmeg, or vanilla extract to the ground chickpeas before brewing to enhance the flavor. Also, you can add milk or cream to your chickpea coffee for a creamier taste.
That’s it! You are ready to enjoy the results of your labor.
Flavor Profile
Chickpea coffee has a smooth and rich taste similar to regular coffee but with a nutty and earthy flavor that sets it apart.
The roasting process and the brewing method used influence the flavor profile. Roasting chickpeas at a high temperature for a short time results in a light roast, while roasting at a lower temperature for a longer time produces a darker roast.
The brewing method also plays a role in the flavor profile. The French press method brings out the nutty and earthy flavors while using a drip coffee maker produces a milder taste.
One of the benefits of chickpea coffee is its naturally low acidity, making it a great option for those with sensitive stomachs. The flavor is also less bitter than regular coffee, which may be appealing to those who find traditional coffee too strong.
Chickpea Coffee Health Benefits
Nutritional Profile
Chickpeas are a great source of fiber, iron, magnesium, potassium, selenium, protein, and B vitamins. They also contain small amounts of calcium and fat. As a coffee substitute, chickpeas give you all these nutrients in a delicious and convenient form.
Promoting Digestion
Chickpeas are rich in dietary fiber, which can help promote healthy digestion. Fiber helps to keep things moving through your digestive system, preventing constipation and other digestive problems. Additionally, chickpeas protein can help regulate bowel movements and reduce inflammation in the gut.
Energy and Nervous System Support
Chickpeas are a great energy source thanks to their high protein and iron content. Iron is essential for producing hemoglobin, which carries oxygen throughout the body. This means chickpea coffee can help combat fatigue and improve mental clarity.
Additionally, chickpeas contain B vitamins, which are important for nervous system function. These vitamins help to regulate mood, reduce stress, and improve cognitive function.
Caffeine Content
Unlike traditional coffee, chickpea coffee is caffeine-free. This makes it a fantastic option for those sensitive to caffeine or looking to reduce their caffeine intake. However, if you’re used to the energy boost of drinking coffee, you may not get the same effect from chickpea coffee.
Chickpea Coffee in Dietary Considerations
For Diabetics
If you are diabetic, you might wonder if you can still enjoy chickpea coffee. The answer is yes! Chickpeas are low glycemic index foods, which means they don’t cause a rapid spike in blood sugar levels. This makes them a great alternative to traditional coffee for people with diabetes.
In fact, a cup of this coffee substitute has about 35% fewer calories than a regular cup of coffee with cream and sugar. It’s also a good source of protein and fiber, which can help regulate blood sugar levels.
In a Vegan Diet
If you follow a vegan diet, Chickpea Coffee is a great option. It’s made from chickpeas, which are a plant-based protein source. Chickpeas are also rich in vitamins and minerals like iron, magnesium, and zinc.
You can enjoy it with almond, rice, or other non-dairy milk.
Buying Recommendations
If you’re interested in trying out chickpea coffee, there are some options in the market. Now, the options are somehow limited.
Back to Nature offers a grounded, toasted chickpea product.
Coffig offers a fig & chickpea product.
You can always buy chickpeas, toast, and grind.
If you are looking for additional coffee alternatives, check my article.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is chickpea coffee a healthy alternative to regular coffee?
Chickpea coffee is a great alternative to regular coffee for those who are looking for a healthier option. Chickpeas are rich in protein, fiber, and vitamins, making them a nutritious addition to your diet. It is also caffeine-free, which means you can enjoy it without worrying about the adverse effects of caffeine.
What is the taste of chickpea coffee?
Chickpea coffee has a nutty and earthy flavor similar to regular coffee. It is also slightly sweet, which makes it a great option for those who like their coffee with a touch of sweetness.
Where did the idea of chickpea coffee come from?
The idea originated in Turkey, where it is known as “no-coffee coffee.” It was created as a caffeine-free alternative to regular coffee and has since become popular in other parts of the world.
Can you use chickpea coffee in recipes?
Yes, it can be used as a substitute for regular coffee in recipes that call for it, or you can use it to add a unique flavor to your dishes.
Is my sweet chickpea a brand of chickpea coffee?
No, My Sweet Chickpea is not a brand of chickpea coffee. It is a brand that offers a variety of chickpea-based products, including snacks, pasta, and rice. They do not currently provide chickpea coffee as part of their product line.
I hope you have enjoyed the article and learned something new. See you next time!
Have you tried this coffee substitute?