Cooking chickpeas from scratch doesn’t have to be time-consuming or complicated.
Thanks to the Instant Pot, you can have perfectly tender chickpeas with minimal effort—no more hours of stovetop simmering!
This simple guide will show you how to cook chickpeas using two foolproof methods: one with soaking and one without. Both are quick, reliable, and ideal for meal prepping.
Why Make Chickpeas in an Instant Pot?
- Faster than the stovetop: Pressure cooking cuts down the time and effort.
- Fresh and Flavorful: Homemade chickpeas taste better than canned ones.
- Budget-Friendly: Dried chickpeas cost less and yield more.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: Freeze leftovers for quick, ready-to-go portions.
Soak vs. No-Soak Chickpeas
Both methods work beautifully in the Instant Pot. Here’s the difference:
- Soak Method: Soaking softens chickpeas, reduces cooking time, and makes them easier to digest.
- No-Soak Method: This skips soaking, perfect when you’re short on time. Cooking takes a bit longer but yields the same tender result.
How to Cook Chickpeas in the Instant Pot
Ingredients for Both Methods
- 1 cup dried chickpeas
- 3 cups water (soak method) or 5 cups water (no-soak method)
- ½ teaspoon salt (optional)
Instant Pot Chickpeas: Soak Method
Soaking chickpeas softens them and helps with digestion.
Steps:
- Rinse and Soak: Rinse 1 cup of dried chickpeas. Place them in a large bowl with 2–3 cups of water and soak for 8 hours or overnight. For a quick soak, use hot water for 1 hour.
- Drain and Add to Instant Pot: Drain the soaked chickpeas and add them to the Instant Pot with 3 cups of fresh water and a pinch of salt.
- Pressure Cook: Seal the lid, set the valve to “Sealing,” and cook on High Pressure for 13–15 minutes.
- Natural Pressure Release: Let the Instant Pot release pressure naturally (about 15 minutes).
- Check for Doneness: Mash a chickpea with your fingers—it should be soft but hold its shape.
- Use or Store: Use immediately in recipes, refrigerate for up to 4 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.
Instant Pot Chickpeas: No-Soak Method
If you’re short on time, skip the soaking and cook the chickpeas directly.
Steps:
- Rinse and Add to Instant Pot: Rinse 1 cup of dried chickpeas and add them to the Instant Pot with 5 cups of water and a pinch of salt.
- Pressure Cook: Seal the lid, set the valve to “Sealing,” and cook on High Pressure for 35–40 minutes.
- Natural Pressure Release: Allow the pressure to release naturally (about 20 minutes).
- Check for Doneness: The chickpeas should mash easily between your fingers. If they’re still firm, cook for a few more minutes.
- Use or Store: Enjoy immediately or store for later use.
Our Tips for Perfect Chickpeas
- Older Chickpeas Take Longer: Chickpeas stored for a long time might need extra cooking time.
- Quick Soak Option: If you’re short on time, soak chickpeas in hot water for 1–2 hours.
- Flavor Boost: Add garlic, bay leaves, or a splash of vegetable broth while cooking for extra taste.
- Batch Freeze: Store cooked chickpeas in 1½-cup portions (equal to a can) for quick meals.
Final Thoughts
Making chickpeas in the Instant Pot is simple, affordable, and perfect for anyone looking to enjoy fresher, tastier beans.
Whether you choose the soak or no-soak method, you’ll end up with tender, creamy chickpeas every time—perfect for hummus, curries, soups, or salads.
Ditch the cans and try cooking chickpeas from scratch; it’s easier than you think, and your meals will taste so much better!
Frequently Asked Questions
How many cups of cooked chickpeas does 1 cup of dried yield?
One cup of dried chickpeas yields about 3 cups of cooked chickpeas, which is the equivalent of two 15-ounce cans.
What dishes can I make with chickpeas?
Chickpeas are very versatile! They’re perfect for hummus, Mediterranean salads, soups, stews, grain bowls, and roasted chickpea snacks.
How do I store cooked chickpeas?
Store cooked chickpeas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. If you want to store them longer, freeze them in portions for up to 3 months.
Can I eat chickpeas every day?
Yes, chickpeas are very healthy, but it’s best to stick to around ½ cup per day to avoid bloating or digestive discomfort.
Why are chickpeas high in calories?
Chickpeas contain healthy carbs, fiber, and protein, which makes them energy-dense and nutritious.
