Buying and preparing dried chickpeas can be healthier and cheaper than buying them canned. The preparation takes some time but is simple if you plan ahead. Before cooking with chickpeas, they need to be soaked. This can be done in two ways: 1) add your chickpeas to a large pot with water, bring to a boil and boil for 5 minutes, remove from heat and allow to stand for 1 hour; or 2) place the chickpeas in a pot or bowl, cover with water, soak overnight. After either method, drain and rinse the beans, return to a pot with several inches of water. Bring to a boil and then reduce heat to a simmer. Add salt to taste, usually about ⅛ tsp per cup of beans. Let beans cook for 60-90 minutes or until soft.
