Ep 14. Pantry Raid XIII: Destination Chickpea

In Good Eats season 14 episode 14, titled "Pantry Raid XIII: Destination Chickpea," host Alton Brown explores the versatile and nutritious chickpea. The episode begins with a history lesson on the chickpea, also known as the garbanzo bean, dating back to ancient times. Brown then delves into the various ways chickpeas can be used in cooking, from hummus to stews to salads.

As always, Brown provides helpful tips and tricks for working with this particular ingredient. One segment features a demonstration on how to properly cook dried chickpeas, which can be more cost-effective than using canned varieties. Brown also highlights the importance of properly seasoning and spicing chickpeas, as they can sometimes be bland on their own.

Throughout the episode, Brown shares several recipes that utilize chickpeas as the main ingredient. These dishes include a chickpea and vegetable stew, a roasted chickpea and spinach salad, and a crispy chickpea snack. Each recipe is accompanied by Brown's usual scientific explanations and culinary history lessons.

Viewers can also expect to learn about the nutritional benefits of chickpeas. Brown explains how chickpeas are a good source of plant-based protein and fiber, making them a great addition to vegetarian and vegan diets. He also shares how chickpeas can help regulate blood sugar levels and contribute to heart health.

The episode concludes with a discussion on the various forms of chickpeas, including besan flour (used in Indian cuisine) and aquafaba (the liquid found in canned chickpeas that can be used as an egg substitute). Brown encourages viewers to experiment with chickpeas in their own cooking and to see how versatile this ingredient truly is.

Overall, "Pantry Raid XIII: Destination Chickpea" is a informative and entertaining episode of Good Eats. Brown's passion for food and his scientific approach to cooking make this show a must-watch for anyone interested in culinary arts. Whether you're a chickpea novice or an experienced cook, there's something for everyone in this episode.