Dried Chickpeas 34/36 Colfiorito 1kg bag - case of 10

Dried Chickpeas 34/36 Colfiorito: the Italian pulse for professional catering

The dried chickpeas 34/36 by Colfiorito are high-quality chickpeas selected for restaurants, catering and professional gastronomy in Switzerland. Packed in practical resealable 1 kg bags and grouped in cases of 10 pieces (10 kg total), they are an ideal solution for high-volume kitchens looking for a reliable, consistent and high-yield raw material. The 34/36 calibre indicates the grain size: medium-large, uniform and regular chickpeas, perfect for achieving professional results in both rustic and refined preparations.

What dried chickpeas are and why to choose them

The chickpea (Cicer arietinum) is one of the oldest and most versatile pulses of Mediterranean tradition. In its dried form it retains all its nutritional properties intact: rich in plant protein, fibre, iron and complex carbohydrates, with a low fat content. For catering, dried chickpeas offer concrete advantages over the pre-cooked product: a significantly lower cost per portion, long shelf life at room temperature, full control over cooking and texture, plus a weight yield that more than doubles after soaking and cooking. The Colfiorito brand, an expression of Umbria's agricultural tradition, guarantees careful grain selection and consistent quality batch after batch.

The 34/36 calibre: what it means

The number 34/36 expresses the calibre of the chickpea, that is the grain size according to commercial classification. It is a medium-large calibre, highly valued in professional kitchens because it combines the visual presence of a large grain with a still manageable cooking time. Chickpeas of this calibre stay whole during cooking, have a thin skin and a creamy flesh, ideal for dishes where the appearance of the pulse matters as much as the flavour.

• Uniform calibre: homogeneous cooking, no mushy grains next to others still hard.
• Thin skin: better digestibility and a more delicate texture on the palate.
• Creamy flesh: excellent yield for purees, hummus and soups.

Soaking and cooking: the professional procedure

To get the most out of dried chickpeas it is essential to respect the soaking and cooking phases. Soaking rehydrates the pulse, reduces cooking times and improves digestibility.

• Soaking: immerse the chickpeas in plenty of cold water (at least 3 times their volume) for 12-24 hours. In professional kitchens it is best to schedule soaking in the evening for the following day's service. A pinch of baking soda in the water softens the skin.
• Cooking: drain, rinse and cook in unsalted water for 1.5-2.5 hours over low heat, or 35-45 minutes in a pressure cooker. Salt only at the end of cooking so as not to harden the skin.
• Yield: 1 kg of dried chickpeas yields about 2.2-2.5 kg of cooked product, considerably optimising the cost per portion.

Uses in professional kitchens

The versatility of the 34/36 Colfiorito chickpeas makes them the protagonists of countless preparations, from traditional Italian cuisine to Middle Eastern and vegetarian menus increasingly requested by customers.

• Soups and broths: the perfect base for the classic pasta e ceci, rustic soups, minestrone and velvety creams, also with rosemary and extra virgin olive oil.
• Hummus and spreads: the creamy flesh of the 34/36 calibre gives a smooth, full-bodied hummus, ideal for starters, buffets and mezze.
• Sides and main dishes: stewed chickpeas, warm salads, protein bowls, combinations with seasonal vegetables and grains.
• Flour and panelle: chickpeas can also be used for regional preparations such as panelle and farinata.

Storage

Dried chickpeas keep for a long time in a cool, dry place, protected from light and humidity. Once opened, the 1 kg bag should be carefully resealed; the product keeps its qualities for many months. It is recommended to follow stock rotation (FIFO) and consume the "older" chickpeas first, as very old pulses may require longer soaking and cooking times.

Logistics and delivery in Switzerland

LAPA guarantees the supply of 34/36 Colfiorito chickpeas to restaurants, hotels, canteens and catering businesses throughout Switzerland, with efficient and reliable deliveries in the main metropolitan areas: Zurich, Geneva, Lugano and Basel. The case format of 10 bags of 1 kg facilitates warehouse storage and stock management. Order on hub.lapa.ch and receive the goods directly in your professional kitchen.