Here is my mom's method for cooking chickpeas. First you'll need to cover with cold water and add about half a teaspoon of baking soda for each cup of dry chickpeas. Soak overnight or in hot boiled water if you are in a hurry. Drain, place in a pot and cover with cold water ( almost 1 litre/1cup of soaked chickpeas), bring to a boil then reduce heat and simmer until tender checking every now and then for the water level. Take about 75-90 minutes to cook.