A Guide to Preserving Garbanzo Beans

Pressure canning is an excellent method for preserving garbanzo beans (also known as chickpeas) at home. Not only does this process extend their shelf life, but it also ensures you have a ready supply of these nutritious legumes for soups, salads, and a variety of dishes. Here’s a detailed guide to help you master the art of pressure canning garbanzo beans.

Why Pressure Canning?

Pressure canning is essential for preserving low-acid foods like garbanzo beans. Unlike high-acid foods, which can be safely processed in a water bath canner, low-acid foods require the higher temperatures achieved in a pressure canner to prevent the growth of harmful bacteria, including Clostridium botulinum.

What You'll Need

Before you start, gather the following supplies:

Pressure canner
Mason jars (pint or quart)
Lids and bands
Large bowl
Cooking pot
Canning funnel
Jar lifter
Ladle
Clean cloths or paper towels

Ingredients

Garbanzo beans (chickpeas)
Water
Salt (optional, for taste)

Step-by-Step Guide

Prepare the Beans

Sorting and Rinsing: Start by sorting through the beans to remove any debris or damaged beans. Rinse them thoroughly under cold water.
Soaking: Place the beans in a large bowl and cover them with water. Let them soak for 8-12 hours or overnight. Alternatively, use the quick soak method by boiling the beans for 2 minutes and then letting them soak for 1 hour.

Pre-Cooking the Beans

After soaking, drain and rinse the beans again. Place them in a large pot, cover with fresh water, and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer for 30 minutes. This pre-cooking helps to ensure even cooking during the canning process.

Preparing the Canning Jars

While the beans are cooking, prepare your canning jars by washing them with hot, soapy water and rinsing them well. Keep the jars warm by placing them in a pot of simmering water until you’re ready to fill them.

Filling the Jars

Using a canning funnel, fill each jar with the pre-cooked beans, leaving 1-inch headspace at the top. Add 1/2 teaspoon of salt per pint jar or 1 teaspoon per quart jar if desired. Ladle hot cooking liquid over the beans, maintaining the 1-inch headspace.

Removing Air Bubbles

Use a non-metallic utensil, such as a bubble remover or a plastic spatula, to remove air bubbles by gently stirring around the inside edges of the jar. Adjust the headspace if necessary by adding more liquid.

Sealing the Jars

Wipe the rims of the jars with a clean, damp cloth to remove any residue. Place the lids on the jars and screw on the bands until they are fingertip tight.

Pressure Canning Process

Place the jars in the pressure canner according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Add the appropriate amount of water to the canner, usually 2-3 inches.
Secure the lid and heat the canner on high. Allow steam to vent for 10 minutes before placing the weight on the vent.
Process the jars at 10 pounds of pressure (adjust for altitude if necessary) for 75 minutes for pints and 90 minutes for quarts.

Cooling and Storing

Once the processing time is complete, turn off the heat and let the canner depressurize naturally. Do not open the canner until it has completely depressurized.
Remove the jars using a jar lifter and place them on a towel or cooling rack. Let them cool undisturbed for 12-24 hours.
Check the seals by pressing the center of each lid. If it doesn’t pop, the jar is sealed. Remove the bands, wipe the jars clean, and store them in a cool, dark place.

Tips for Success

Always use fresh, high-quality beans for the best results.
Ensure your pressure canner is in good working condition and the gauge is accurate.
Adjust processing times for altitude based on USDA guidelines.
Label your jars with the date and contents for easy identification.

Pressure canning garbanzo beans is a rewarding process that ensures you always have a supply of these versatile legumes on hand. With a little practice, you’ll become proficient in this method, allowing you to enjoy the benefits of home-canned beans year-round. Happy canning!