The black chickpea cream is a simple and nourishing preparation, ideal to serve as an appetizer or aperitif on crispy crostini. Black chickpeas are an ancient legume, rich in protein, fiber and natural antioxidants, with a more pronounced and intense flavor, slightly more rustic compared to classic yellow chickpeas.
This cream is made with a few simple ingredients: cooked black chickpeas, extra virgin olive oil, garlic, lemon juice and a pinch of spices to taste. The result is a smooth, velvety texture, perfect to accompany toasted bread, grissini or as a base for gourmet canapés. Foundations and sauces of plant-based cooking.
A genuine, plant-based alternative to classic sauces, great both for those following a vegetarian diet and for anyone looking for a light but flavorful dish. Perfect to serve as an appetizer, aperitif or finger food during dinners and special events.
- Difficulty: Very easy
- Cost: Very inexpensive
- Preparation time: 5 Minutes
- Portions: 4 People
- Cooking methods: Other
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
- 1 1/4 cups black chickpeas (cooked)
- 2 tbsp mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1/2 lemon (juice)
- 1 tsp vinegar
- 1 clove garlic
- to taste salt and pepper
Steps
1. Preparing the chickpeas
Soak dried black chickpeas in cold water for at least 24 hours.
Rinse them and simmer for about 2 hours, until tender.
Alternatively, you can use already cooked black chickpeas to speed up the recipe.
2. Making the cream
Place the black chickpeas in a blender with all the listed ingredients and blend until you obtain a velvety consistency.
3. Season to taste
Taste the cream and adjust salt and pepper.
If you like a spicy touch, add cumin or sweet paprika as desired.
4. How to serve
Spread the black chickpea cream over hot, crunchy crostini.
Finish with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and, if desired, sesame seeds or fresh herbs.
Storage: the black chickpea cream keeps in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container.
Pairings: also excellent as a dip for raw vegetables, as a dressing for pasta salads or as a base for gourmet canapés.
Nutritional Values of Black Chickpeas
Black chickpeas are a valuable source of:
– Plant-based protein
– Fiber
– Iron and magnesium
– Natural antioxidants (thanks to the dark color of the skin)
A perfect dish for anyone looking for a healthy, nutritious plant-based appetizer.
FAQ (Questions and Answers)
Can I use regular chickpeas instead of black ones?
Sure! You will get a lighter, milder cream, similar to traditional hummus.
How can I make the cream more flavorful?
You can enrich it with spices (smoked, sweet or hot paprika, curry, cumin) or add toasted seeds as a topping.
