Learning to Cook with Chickpeas
A routine we’re calling "Nature Links Cafe" has recently blossomed into a beloved celebration of healthy cooking. At Nature Links, students with disabilities have been teaching each other about the art of preparing nutritious meals independently—a skill crucial for their adult lives. Each week, students share their culinary adventures through photos and short presentations, showcasing meals they've proudly cooked for themselves. It's a beautiful blend of creativity, independence, and community spirit, where each dish tells a story of empowerment and achievement.
Recently, two enthusiastic students at Nature Links Cafe delighted their peers with recipes featuring the versatile chickpea. Chickpeas, also known as garbanzo beans, are not only packed with protein and fiber but also offer a range of health benefits.
Nutritional Powerhouse: Chickpeas are rich in protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals, making them a nutritious addition to any meal.
Versatility in Cooking: From salads to stews, and even as a base for gluten-free or plant-based baking and cooking, chickpeas add texture and flavor to a variety of dishes.
First, Alison shared her recipe for chickpea salad, a vegan alternative to tuna or chicken salad, which can be similarly eaten on bread, with crackers, in lettuce wraps etc. Alison admits she doesn’t use an exact recipe for this dish, but let us know that it is simple enough to estimate amounts and cook by taste. Alison mashes a can of chickpeas using a pastry blender, then mixes in veganaise (a vegan, may0 alternative), onion powder, garlic powder, black pepper and celery salt. Participants were also brainstorming other ingredients they could add to this versatile dish, including parsley, nuts, cranberries and other healthy ingredients that may go into a traditional chicken salad recipe.
In our second chickpea-inspired presentation, Sonni shared a recipe for a healthy snack she made up on her own. Using an air fryer, Sonni baked chickpeas that were marinated in olive oil, panko breadcrumbs and seasonings (which can be adjusted or chosen based on preference). After air frying the chickpeas at 350 degrees for 12 minutes, Sonni revealed a healthy, protein-packed, tasty and inexpensive snack that could be made at home. Both recipes used chickpeas in inventive ways, and inspired other participants to use simple, healthy ingredients to cook for themselves. Way to go Alison and Sonni!
Nature Links Cafe not only promotes healthy eating but also fosters confidence and community among its participants. It's a testament to the importance of empowering individuals with disabilities to lead fulfilling and independent lives through practical life skills like cooking. Stay tuned for more inspiring stories and delicious recipes from Nature Links Cafe!
