What factors contribute to chickpeas remaining hard after soaking for 24 hours and cooking for 1 hour? (2024)

There are several factors that can contribute to chickpeas remaining hard even after soaking for 24 hours and cooking for 1 hour. Here are some possible reasons:

1. Age of the chickpeas: Chickpeas that are old or have been stored for a long time may take longer to soften during cooking [1]. It is recommended to use fresh chickpeas for better results.

2. Insufficient soaking time: Soaking chickpeas for 24 hours is generally sufficient, but in some cases, especially if the chickpeas are old, they may require a longer soaking time. You can try soaking them for 48 hours to see if it helps with softening [1].

3. Hard water: If you have hard water, it can affect the softening process of chickpeas. Hard water contains minerals that can make it difficult for the chickpeas to soften. Using bottled water or broth instead of tap water for soaking and cooking can help overcome this issue [3].

4. Insufficient cooking time: Chickpeas may require longer cooking times to fully soften, especially if they are old or have not been soaked adequately. You can try extending the cooking time by simmering the chickpeas for an additional 30 minutes or until they reach the desired softness [3].

5. Adding salt or baking soda: Adding a small amount of salt (about 2-3 tablespoons per pound of chickpeas) or baking soda (about ¼ teaspoon per pound of chickpeas) to the soaking water can help soften the chickpeas [3].

6. Quality of the chickpeas: The quality of the chickpeas can also play a role in their ability to soften. Lower quality or damaged chickpeas may not soften as well as higher quality ones. It is important to source chickpeas from a reputable supplier to ensure better results.

Learn more:

1. Why do chickpeas still come out hard when you soak ... - Quora
2. Why won't my dried chickpeas soften? - Food52
3. How To Cook Dried Chickpeas - Veggies Don't Bite