UPDATE: Chickpea enthusiasts are being urgently advised to stop discarding a vital component of canned chickpeas. This crucial ingredient, known as Aquafaba, is packed with nutrients and can significantly enhance your cooking.
Just announced by cookbook author and PlantYou founder Carleigh Bodrug, this thick, starchy liquid, often thrown down the drain, holds remarkable culinary potential. “This is really something you should never throw away,” Bodrug stated, emphasizing the liquid’s versatility in various dishes.
Chickpeas are a staple in Mediterranean, Middle Eastern, and Indian cuisines, packed with protein, fibre, vitamins, and minerals. Used in everything from hummus to hearty stews, their canned versions often come with Aquafaba, which can be utilized as an egg white substitute in baking.
Bodrug describes Aquafaba as “liquid gold,” highlighting its ability to replace egg whites in recipes like meringues and chocolate mousse. “When you open up a can of chickpeas, the potential is limitless for this ingredient that cost you nothing,” she added.
Moreover, research from Dr. Will Bulsiewicz featured on the Zoe podcast reveals that Aquafaba contains 80 different varieties of fibre. This nutrient-dense liquid nourishes beneficial gut bacteria, providing health benefits that many seek from probiotics.
“The part that people are discarding… can have 80 different types of fibre that feed and give you that kind of bacteria,” Dr. Bulsiewicz explained.
As the popularity of plant-based diets surges, the revelation of Aquafaba’s benefits could change how millions approach cooking. The message is clear: do not waste this nutrient-rich liquid; instead, explore its vast culinary possibilities.
With health-conscious consumers increasingly searching for innovative cooking tips, Bodrug’s advice comes at a crucial time. This urgent update not only encourages sustainable cooking practices but also promotes a healthier lifestyle.
As more people embrace the benefits of Aquafaba, expect to see it trending in recipes across social media platforms. Share this important message to ensure no one misses out on the incredible advantages of this often-overlooked ingredient!
