Chickpeas: The High-Protein, High-Calorie Survival Food
Chickpeas are a fantastic staple crop to grow in your survival garden. Known for their versatility and nutritional density, they are an excellent source of plant-based protein, complex carbohydrates, and essential nutrients that are crucial for energy and long-term sustainability.
Why Grow Chickpeas?
High in Protein: Chickpeas are one of the best plant-based sources of protein, providing about 15 grams of protein per cooked cup. This makes them an essential addition to a survival garden where protein is necessary for muscle repair, immune health, and overall energy.
Calorie-Dense: Chickpeas are calorie-dense, offering around 270 calories per cup when cooked, making them a great choice for boosting caloric intake in a survival situation. The complex carbohydrates help provide sustained energy.
Versatile and Delicious: Chickpeas can be used in a variety of dishes, from soups and stews to salads, curries, or made into hummus. Their ability to absorb flavors makes them an excellent base for numerous meals.
Good for Soil Health: Chickpeas are legumes, meaning they fix nitrogen in the soil. This process enriches the soil, improving soil health for other crops, which is especially beneficial for long-term gardening sustainability.
When to Plant Chickpeas
Planting Season: Chickpeas thrive in warm weather but are not tolerant of extreme heat. Plant them in the spring when the soil has warmed up and all danger of frost has passed. They grow best in temperatures between 70°F and 80°F (21°C to 27°C).
Planting Timeframe: Directly sow chickpea seeds outdoors about 2-4 weeks after the last frost in your area. It typically takes around 90-100 days from planting to harvest, so plan accordingly to ensure you have enough growing time before the first fall frost.
Where to Grow Chickpeas
Location: Chickpeas love full sun. A sunny spot is necessary for them to thrive and produce a healthy yield. However, they do tolerate some light shade, which can be useful in warmer climates.
Soil: Chickpeas prefer well-drained, loamy soil with a slightly alkaline pH of 6.0 to 7.5. Ensure your soil is free of excess moisture, as chickpeas do not perform well in waterlogged conditions. Amending your soil with compost before planting can also help improve drainage and fertility.
How to Grow Chickpeas
1. Starting Seeds:
Directly sow chickpea seeds into the garden about 1-2 inches deep, spaced 4-6 inches apart. The seeds should be sown in rows about 18-24 inches apart to allow room for growth.
Chickpeas are relatively low-maintenance and don’t require starting indoors, making them an easy and low-effort plant to grow.
2. Watering:
Chickpeas are drought-tolerant once established, but they will need regular watering during the early stages of growth. Be mindful not to overwater, as chickpeas do not like soggy conditions. Aim to keep the soil evenly moist but not soaked.
3. Fertilizing:
Chickpeas don’t require heavy fertilization. In fact, they improve soil nitrogen content, so minimal or no synthetic fertilizer is needed. You can add compost or organic matter to the soil before planting to encourage strong plant growth.
4. Thinning:
After your chickpeas germinate and establish their first set of leaves, thin them out to allow enough space for each plant to grow. Thinning is essential to prevent overcrowding and ensure good air circulation.
Benefits of Chickpeas in a Survival Garden
Protein and Fiber-Rich: Chickpeas provide a great balance of protein and dietary fiber. These nutrients help with muscle repair, immune function, and digestive health. A high-fiber diet also keeps you feeling full longer, making them perfect for survival situations.
Good Source of Micronutrients: Chickpeas are rich in folate, iron, magnesium, and potassium, all essential for maintaining good health, especially during periods of physical exertion.
Low Maintenance: Chickpeas are a relatively low-maintenance crop that requires minimal water and fertilizer, making them perfect for beginner gardeners or those looking for crops that thrive with less input.
Long Shelf Life: Once harvested, chickpeas can be dried and stored for long periods, making them an excellent crop for food preservation. Dried chickpeas can be stored for up to a year or more in a cool, dry place.
Culinary Uses
Hummus: Chickpeas are the main ingredient in the popular Middle Eastern dip, hummus. Blend cooked chickpeas with tahini, lemon juice, garlic, and olive oil for a delicious and nutritious snack or spread.
Soups and Stews: Chickpeas can be added to soups and stews to provide texture and protein. They complement vegetables, grains, and meats perfectly.
Curries: Chickpeas are essential in many curry dishes, absorbing rich, flavorful sauces. Try them in a simple curry with coconut milk, spices, and vegetables.
Salads: Toss cooked or canned chickpeas into salads for extra protein and fiber. They pair well with roasted vegetables, greens, and Mediterranean ingredients like feta and olives.
Roasted Chickpeas: You can roast chickpeas for a crunchy snack. Simply toss them with olive oil, salt, and your favorite spices, and bake until crispy.
Chickpea Flour: You can grind dried chickpeas into flour and use it in various recipes, such as flatbreads, pancakes, and fritters. Chickpea flour is naturally gluten-free, making it an excellent alternative to wheat flour.
Growing Chickpeas Tips
Pest Control: While chickpeas are generally resistant to pests, they may attract aphids or root rot if conditions are too damp. Keep an eye out for pests and consider using organic pesticides or natural methods like neem oil or companion planting.
Supporting Growth: As chickpeas grow, they may need support to stand upright, especially in windy conditions. Consider providing a trellis or stake to help keep the plants upright.
Mulching: Mulching around your chickpea plants can help maintain consistent soil moisture, suppress weeds, and keep the roots cool during hot spells.
Harvesting and Storing Chickpeas
Harvesting Time:
Chickpeas are ready to harvest when the pods turn brown and dry, typically about 90-100 days after planting. The plants will turn yellow as they mature. Test a few pods by squeezing them—if the peas inside are firm and dry, it’s time to harvest.
Harvesting Method:
Pull up the entire plant and shake to dislodge the beans. You can also manually pull off the pods, which can be done by hand or using scissors.
Drying Chickpeas:
Once harvested, you’ll need to dry the chickpeas completely before storing them. Spread the beans out in a dry, well-ventilated area, and allow them to dry for several days.
Storing Dried Chickpeas:
Store dried chickpeas in airtight containers or jars. Keep them in a cool, dry place, away from light, and they will last for up to a year or more.
Why Chickpeas Are Essential for Your Survival Garden
Chickpeas provide a balanced combination of protein, calories, and essential nutrients, making them a perfect survival food.
Easy to grow in warm weather, drought-tolerant, and nutrient-dense, they are a valuable addition to any long-term survival food plan.
Whether eaten fresh, dried, or stored for later use, chickpeas can be the cornerstone of many meals, providing you with the nutrition and energy you need to thrive.
By adding chickpeas to your survival garden, you're growing a sustainable, protein-packed crop that can keep you fueled and healthy in even the most challenging of times.
Their versatility and long shelf life make them indispensable for any preparedness plan.
