Chickpeas

Brown desi chickpeas

India is the world’s main producer and consumer of chickpea. This is the one referred to as: Bengal Gram, Kala Chana (meaning black chickpea) or Chola Boot. “Desi” chickpea is smaller, light to dark brown, with a thick, rough, seed coat. The word ‘Desi‘ means ‘country‘ or ‘local‘ in Hindustani. Desi chickpeas have a markedly higher fibre content than other varieties and a lower glycemic Index.

White kabuli chickpeas

The is the one commonly referred to as Garbanzo Bean or Ceci Bean. It’s relatively round and cream coloured with a smooth seed coat. It usually has a nutty, mild flavour and remains crunchy even after being fully cooked. It cooks faster and has less dietary fibre than those of the Desi type.