I’ve always been a fan of chickpeas. These versatile, protein-packed legumes are a pantry staple I recommend to anyone looking to add easy, nutritious ingredients to their meals. While I prefer cooking chickpeas from scratch, canned chickpeas are my go-to for quick meals.
I usually pick the cheapest brand, assuming they’re all the same. But are they? Recently, I decided to find out by testing seven popular brands of canned chickpeas to see if one truly stood out.
Selection Process: The Chickpeas I Chose
Living in a big city means I can access several major grocery chains, each offering a range of canned chickpeas.
For this test, I visited various stores and picked one can of chickpeas from each significant brand I found. I chose cans without adding seasonings or flavors, as I wanted a pure chickpea flavor to make a fair comparison.
Taste Test Methodology: How I Evaluated the Chickpeas
I conducted a blind taste test, pouring each can’s contents into a bowl and removing any labels to prevent bias. My evaluation focused on three key areas:
- Appearance: Did the beans look whole, or were they broken and falling apart?
- Texture: I prefer chickpeas with a bit of firmness, not too soft or mushy. While softer beans can work for hummus or dips, I wanted beans with a bite.
- Flavor: I looked for a mild, nutty taste with a clean finish.
After the taste test, I ranked each brand based on these criteria and noted my favorite uses.
The Rankings: How Each Brand Measured Up
#7 Bush’s Canned Chickpeas
- Price: $1.75 per 16-ounce can
- Availability: Widely available in significant retailers
Bush’s chickpeas are a reliable option available in most stores at an affordable price, making them a convenient choice. However, while the texture was decent, the flavor was almost nonexistent, lacking the nuttiness I expect from a good chickpea. This resulted in Bush landing last place on my list.
- Best Use: Tossed with spices and roasted for a flavor boost.
#6 Goya Canned Chickpeas
- Price: Around $1.25 per 16-ounce can
- Availability: Common in most supermarkets
Goya’s chickpeas were notably more significant than any other brand I tested. While they had a chickpea taste, the texture was softer than I’d like. This softness made them less ideal for dishes where chickpeas should hold their shape, but they could work well in spreads or purees.
- Best Use: Mashed into hummus for a sandwich spread or dip.
#5 Eden Foods Organic Chickpeas
- Price: Around $1.80 per 15-ounce can
- Availability: Available in health food stores and some grocery chains
Eden Foods was the only organic option I tested, and it stood out for its firm texture. The beans held their shape exceptionally well, although they might be challenging to mash. Their mild, nutty flavor was pleasant but nothing particularly memorable. Eden’s chickpeas were a solid option but did not stand out.
- Best Use: Great for salads and wraps where a firmer chickpea is preferred.
#4 Dakota’s Pride Chickpeas (Aldi)
- Price: Less than $1 per 16-ounce can
- Availability: Exclusive to Aldi stores
Dakota’s Pride from Aldi was another affordable and high-quality option. The chickpeas were firm, flavorful, and visually appealing, with a nice texture that made them a pleasure to eat. At a budget-friendly price, these chickpeas are an excellent choice for everyday meals. They’re versatile enough to work in various dishes, making them a strong contender.
- Best Use: Perfect for veggie burgers, sandwiches, or salads.
#3 Good & Gather Chickpeas (Target)
- Price: $1.19 per 15-ounce can
- Availability: Target-exclusive brand
Good & Gather chickpeas, Target’s in-house brand, offered a pleasant, mild, nutty flavor and had a firm texture that worked well in any dish. While they were enjoyable and checked all my criteria, there wasn’t anything extraordinary about them compared to the top two options. Still, they’re a reliable choice if you’re shopping at Target.
- Best Use: Extremely versatile, suitable for any dish calling for chickpeas.
#2 365 by Whole Foods Market
- Price: $1.29 per 15-ounce can
- Availability: Available at Whole Foods Market stores
The Whole Foods 365 brand came impressively close to my homemade chickpeas. These had a beautifully subtle nutty flavor and a satisfying texture—firm on the outside and creamy within. The taste and texture felt reminiscent of scratch-cooked chickpeas, making them an excellent option for various recipes.
- Best Use: Great for any recipe, whether salads, stews, or straight out of the can.
#1 Trader Joe’s Canned Chickpeas
- Price: $1 per 15-ounce can
- Availability: Trader Joe’s stores only
Trader Joe’s Chickpeas took the top spot for both flavor and price. The texture was ideal, firm yet tender, and the taste was mild and nutty, making them perfect for various dishes. At only $1 per can, Trader Joe’s chickpeas combine quality with affordability, earning them a permanent spot in my pantry.
- Best Use: Versatile for any application—from salads and stews to roasted snacks.
Summary Table: Chickpea Brand Comparison
BrandPrice (per can)TextureFlavorBest Use
Bush’s $1.75 Decent, slightly soft, Bland, Roasted with spices
Goya $1.25 Softer than preferred Good Hummus or sandwich spread
Eden Foods $1.80 Substantial Mild, nutty Salads and wraps
Dakota’s Pride < $1 Firm Good Veggie burgers, salads, sandwiches
Good & Gather $1.19 Firm Mild, nutty All-purpose
365 (Whole Foods) $1.29 Firm, creamy Nutty, homemade-like Any dish
Trader Joe’s $1 Ideal, firm, Mild, nutty All-purpose, especially for salads
FAQ: Everything You Need to Know About Canned Chickpeas
1. Are canned chickpeas healthy?
Yes! Canned chickpeas are packed with fiber, protein, and essential nutrients, making them a healthy meal addition. Just be mindful of sodium content, as some brands can be high in salt. Look for “low sodium” options or rinse the chickpeas before use.
2. Do canned chickpeas need to be cooked?
Canned chickpeas are pre-cooked, so they’re ready to eat right out of the can. They’re perfect for adding to salads, soups, or stews without additional cooking. You can also roast or sauté them for extra flavor.
3. What’s the best way to store leftover canned chickpeas?
Transfer unused chickpeas from the can to an airtight container and store them in the fridge for up to three days. If you want them to last longer, consider freezing them in a freezer-safe container for up to three months.
4. Are there any disadvantages to canned chickpeas?
The main downside is that canned chickpeas may have a softer texture than chickpeas cooked from dry. Additionally, some brands add preservatives or extra salt. Checking the label can help you choose brands with minimal additives.
5. Can I use canned chickpeas in all chickpea recipes?
Absolutely! Canned chickpeas are versatile and can substitute for cooked chickpeas in most recipes. Whether making hummus, stews, salads, or roasting them for snacks, canned chickpeas are convenient and delicious.
Conclusion:
After testing seven brands, Trader Joe’s chickpeas emerged as my favorite. They hit the mark on flavor, texture, and affordability, making them a no-brainer for chickpea-based recipes. Whether you’re roasting, mashing, or adding them to soups, Trader Joe’s chickpeas will be my go-to choice.
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