How to cook dried chickpeas: Place chickpeas in a large bowl and cover completely with cold water. Allow to soak overnight, about 12 hours. Once the chickpeas have soaked, drain them and transfer to a large cooking pot. Cover with water twice the amount of beans and bring to a boil. Cover and allow to simmer for approximately one hour. Do a taste test to make sure they are tender enough for your liking. Drain and allow to cool for 15 minutes. Once chickpeas are cooled they are ready to be used. Cooked chickpeas can keep covered in the refrigerator for up to three days.