Chickpeas (Cicer arietinum) is an annual legume of the family Fabaceae, subfamily Faboideae. Chickpea seeds are high in protein. It is one of the earliest cultivated legumes and 7500-year-old remains have been found in the Middle East. Chickpea is a key ingredient in hummus, chana masala, and can be ground into flour and made into falafel. It is also used in salads, soups and stews.
