Garbanzo Beans (Chick Peas)

Garbanzo Beans

Garbanzo beans and chickpeas are indisputably the exact same bean, originating from the plant family of legumes – Fabaceae. They are a healthier alternative to relatives like kidney beans, black beans and lima beans.

To break it down, the word garbanzo is Spanish and has been enjoyed in the Middle East for centuries. The name chickpea, on the other hand, has a longer trail beginning in Latin, evolving through French and eventually ending up in the English language as simply chickpea. Other names include Egyptian pea, Safaid Beans, Pois Chiche, Cheechee, Cici, Ceci, Gran and Kabuli are all applied to this world renowned little nugget.

This versatile legume is a staple in Indian and Mediterranean dishes. It is the main ingredient in the popular dish hummus. Its small, knobby bean boasts a powerful, nutty flavor and is regularly found in both green and pasta salads, soups and stews. Garbanzo beans can also be milled into a fine flour and added to baked goods and in preparation for patties and meatballs. They can be enjoyed dried and roasted, creating a crispy shell that can be seasoned in various ways. Garbanzo beans are also canned for preservation.

Garbanzo beans are incredibly high in protein, making them a helpful player in the fight against obesity, heart disease and diabetes. Although high in fat, garbanzo beans are also a good source of calcium, iron and B vitamins.

Mount Hope Wholesale offers these chickpeas in five pound bags as well as full sacks.