Choose chickpeas for a healthy source of protein

Bring a bit of spring inside by sprouting your own chickpeas, then blending the protein-rich bean into this tasty hummus recipe

Are you being hit with Farch? That’s what I affectionately call the February/March Blues. Most of Canada is sitting under a two-foot blanket of snow and we are getting tired of shovelling, de-icing and coping with the wind chill.  (Not us in British Columbia, we don't get the frigid cold that they get in the rest of Canada!  Thank goodness!)

The nutritional solution? Create a garden in your house! It warms the heart to watch seeds, grains and beans sprout. It helps us remember that spring is only six weeks away. One of the easiest beans to start sprouting is chickpea (aka garbanzo beans). You can check out www.juliedaniluk.com to receive a free full sprouting guide.  (I'm not that domesticated!  I would just buy the canned chickpeas!)

Five reasons to enjoy more chickpeas:
1. Chickpeas and their sprouts are a great source of protein — one cup of sprouted chickpeas can yield 38 grams! Protein necessary for all of our body functions, especially our metabolism of fats and carbohydrates. Did you know that increasing your protein intake will help you feel fuller faster than carbohydrates alone?

2. Chickpea sprouts are a great source of complex carbohydrates, which are needed to maintain a safe level of blood glucose