When people go vegan, one of the most popular source of protein is from chickpeas.

​

In Japan however, chickpeas (hyokomame) are not a local ingredient. So even though you can find it in the supermarkets, they are generally pricier.

​

This is why I started using Edamame as a replacement for chickpeas, making it one of my favourite protein source.

 

Not only is edamame cheaper and locally produced, edamame also tends to be healthier than chickpeas.