A member of the legume family, chickpeas have a delicious nutty taste, creamy texture and are extremely nutritious. Slightly bigger in size than a pea, chickpeas may be tiny but are certainly well-deserving of their superfood status, being packed full of nutrients and health benefits. You don't have to soak your chickpeas before cooking, but the soaking method makes the beans cook much faster. It can take up to twice the time if you don't soak them first.