Chickpeas

Preparing dried beans:

1/2 lb bans makes about 3 cups cooked beans

To prepare 1/2 lb. beans (about 1 cup or 1/2 pkg.):

1. Rinse and remove foreign material from beans
2. Soak beans. Quick: Bring four cups water and beans to a boil. Boil 2 minues. Remove from heat; cover. Let stand 1 hour; drain and rinse. OR Overnight: Cover beans with 4 cups water. Let stand overnight (6 to 8 hours). Drain and rinse.
3. To cook, bring 3 cups water and soaked beans to a boil; reduce heat and cover. Simmer gently over LOW heat about 1.5 to 2 hours or until beans are tender.