You are used to seeing chickpeas in falafel, those spicy “meatballs” from the Middle East, but these pulses have also been used in Italy since ancient times. The chickpea plant was cultivated in Turkey as early as around 4,000 years ago and was exported to Italy by the ancient Romans.
The Latin name of chickpeas is Cicer arietinum, reminiscent of the surname of the famous Cicero. It is thought, in fact, that the family name of the famous orator derived from a chickpea-shaped protuberance that one of his ancestors had on his nose.
Their second name, arietinum, derives instead from the shape of the pulse resembling a ram’s head.
Their ancient origin is not the only reason they are still eaten today; chickpeas are in fact rich in benefits for the body and today you can learn about three of the main ones.
They are your body’s fuel The slaves of Egypt incorporated chickpeas into their diet because it provided them with much needed energy given their gruelling days. These pulses contain 20% protein, 6% fat and 50% carbohydrates, the latter being starch, the body’s “fuel”. To make sure that these vegetable proteins really help your body, remember to combine them with whole grains that compensate for the pulses’ deficiencies, providing the body with all the nutrients it needs to produce energy.
They help the heart and circulation Chickpeas contain a good amount of dietary fibre and therefore help reduce levels of “bad” cholesterol in the blood. In this way, they contribute to the prevention of diseases such as atherosclerosis, heart attacks and strokes.
In addition, they are suitable for those suffering from hypertension and heart disease, thanks to their potassium content, which regulates blood pressure and also helps those suffering from obesity.
They are a panacea for diabetics, anaemia sufferers and for the immune system
Chickpeas are also very useful pulses for those suffering from anaemia due to a lack of iron, which is one of the main components of this food. Even diabetics may find benefits in filling up on chickpeas: in fact, these pulses contain zinc that helps the body assimilate insulin and also supports the immune system.
Chickpeas are really good for your health and are also very versatile in the kitchen. You can use them to prepare many different recipes or enjoy them in the Kioene veggie chickpea burger, for an easy, quick and healthy meal!
