We Are Loving The Idea Of Chickpea Snacks. Here’s Why…
ASHLEIGH JENSEN
We couldn’t help but notice that chickpeas are so “on-trend” right now. The health food aisle at the grocery store seems to be delivering more and more chickpea goodies, so we thought we’d check them out and see what all the hype is about!
I guess you could say it all starts with the fact that chickpeas are typically pretty healthy, overall. They have a delicious nut-like taste and a texture that is slightly creamy. These versatile legumes are most commonly found in soups, curries, hummus and falafels. They are also naturally gluten free, which is a win for all you foodies out there avoiding gluten.
Now, before we jump too far ahead, we do just want to make a little disclaimer. At Food Matters we always prioritize a whole foods diet and our general philosophy is to avoid packaged foods. We would however, like to acknowledge that sometimes that isn’t as easy as it sounds. We like to provide options and healthy alternatives to the mainstream “junk” that we are being bombarded with these days. Chickpea snacks are a healthi-ER alternative to regular packaged chips and we recommend them only as a “sometimes” food.
So moving on….
What Are The Benefits Of Chickpeas You Ask?
Fiber
Just like most other beans and legumes, chickpeas are jam packed full of dietary fiber. A high fiber content means less chance of constipation and the ability to prevent digestive disorders.
Protein
This is particularly good news for all the vegetarians and vegans out there. Chickpeas provide an amount of protein comparable to that of meat or dairy foods without the high calories or excess fats. So when the next person asks, “But where do you get your protein?” you will know exactly how to respond. Chickpeas of course.
Iron
Did you know that chickpeas are high in iron? A perfect way to boost your energy levels is to increase the amount of iron you consume. This is particularly important to menstruating or pregnant women, as well as growing children.
Chickpea Snacks We’re Loving!
Biena
Biena chickpea snacks offer some pretty funky flavors. From Rockin Ranch to Habanero and Cinnamon Crunch, these chickpea snacks are perfect for lunch boxes or when you’re in need of a snack on-the-go.
Kashi
If you like the sound of plant-powered ingredients such as teff, these thin chickpea chips offer the perfect balance of flavors. Kashi offers a range of healthy snacks but lemon chili is our pick!
The Good Bean
The Good Bean offer an awesome range of chickpea snacks. With both sweet and savory varieties (think chocolate, sweet cinnamon and smoky lime and chilli), there’s a flavor for everyone to enjoy. All of their chickpea snacks are gluten-free, nut-free, vegan, kosher and non-GMO.
Watusee Foods
The flavors on offer at Watusee Foods had our mouths watering! Chickpea snacks that taste like cinnamon toast or tomato and basil - Yes please! We love that there is only a handful of ingredients in these snacks, they crunch like a pretzel and will fuel your body when you’re on-the-go or need a pick-me-up.
Have You Found Any Chickpea Snacks That Are Worth Sharing? Share Your Thoughts In The Comments Below!
Ashleigh is an integral part of the Food Matters communications team. A holistic Health Coach from the Institute for Integrative Nutrition, Bachelor of Health Promotion student and all round communications superstar. When she's not sharing health and wellness inspiration for us, you can find her down by the beach or in the kitchen creating vegan delights!