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Black Chickpea
Legumes
Nutri-ScoreA

Black Chickpea

Cicer arietinum

Clinical Encyclopedia

Black chickpeas, also known as kala chana, are a nutrient-dense legume rich in protein, fiber, and essential minerals. They are known for their unique flavor and are often used in various culinary dishes.

Scientific NameCicer arietinum
Region of OriginIndia

Macronutrient Ratio

Caloric distribution of primary energy metrics per 100g

Calories164 kcal
Water
10.5%
Fiber7.6g
Total38.9g
Protein
8.9g(23%)
Fats
2.6g(7%)
Carbohydrates
27.4g(70%)

Micronutrient DV% Score

Top vitamins and minerals ranked by percentage of Daily Recommended Value

Vitamins (DV%)
Minerals (DV%)

Health Benefits

Rich in protein, black chickpeas support muscle growth and repair, making them an excellent choice for vegetarians and vegans.
High fiber content aids in digestion and helps maintain a healthy gut microbiome.
Contains antioxidants that may help reduce inflammation and lower the risk of chronic diseases.
Low glycemic index makes them suitable for blood sugar management, beneficial for diabetics.

Possible Risks & Side Effects

!May cause digestive discomfort in individuals with sensitive stomachs or those not accustomed to high-fiber diets.
!Allergic reactions are possible in individuals with legume allergies.

How to Prepare & Consume

Soak overnight and cook thoroughly to enhance digestibility. Can be used in salads, curries, or ground into flour.

Smart Selection & Storage

How to Select

Choose firm, dry black chickpeas with no signs of moisture or mold. Look for uniform color and size.

How to Store

Store in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. Cooked chickpeas should be refrigerated and consumed within a week.

Myths vs Realities

MythBlack chickpeas are only for vegetarians.+
RealityBlack chickpeas are nutritious for everyone, regardless of dietary preferences.
MythEating chickpeas will make you gain weight.+
RealityIn moderation, chickpeas can aid in weight management due to their high fiber content.
MythAll legumes are the same nutritionally.+
RealityDifferent legumes have varying nutrient profiles; black chickpeas are particularly high in protein and fiber.

Healthy Recipes

Spicy Black Chickpea Salad

A refreshing salad packed with protein and flavor, featuring black chickpeas, fresh vegetables, and a zesty dressing.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup cooked black chickpeas
  • 1 cup diced cucumber
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a large bowl, combine the black chickpeas, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and cilantro.
  2. 2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, cumin, salt, and pepper.
  3. 3. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine. Serve chilled.

Black Chickpea and Quinoa Bowl

A nutrient-dense bowl featuring black chickpeas and quinoa, topped with roasted vegetables and a tahini dressing.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup cooked black chickpeas
  • 1 cup cooked quinoa
  • 1 cup mixed roasted vegetables (bell peppers, zucchini, carrots)
  • 2 tablespoons tahini
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a bowl, layer the cooked quinoa and black chickpeas.
  2. 2. Top with roasted vegetables.
  3. 3. In a small bowl, mix tahini, lemon juice, salt, and pepper; drizzle over the bowl before serving.

Black Chickpea Curry

A hearty and flavorful curry made with black chickpeas simmered in a spiced coconut milk sauce, served with brown rice.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup cooked black chickpeas
  • 1 can coconut milk
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tablespoon curry powder
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt to taste
  • 2 cups cooked brown rice
Instructions
  1. 1. Heat olive oil in a pan and sauté onion and garlic until translucent.
  2. 2. Add curry powder and cook for another minute.
  3. 3. Stir in black chickpeas and coconut milk; simmer for 15 minutes. Serve over brown rice.

Black Chickpea Hummus

A twist on traditional hummus, this black chickpea version is rich in flavor and perfect as a dip or spread.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup cooked black chickpeas
  • 1/4 cup tahini
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 1 garlic clove
  • Salt to taste
  • Water as needed
Instructions
  1. 1. In a food processor, combine black chickpeas, tahini, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and salt.
  2. 2. Blend until smooth, adding water as needed for desired consistency.
  3. 3. Serve with fresh veggies or pita bread.

Black Chickpea Tacos

Delicious and healthy tacos filled with spiced black chickpeas, topped with avocado and fresh salsa.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup cooked black chickpeas
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 4 corn tortillas
  • 1 avocado, sliced
  • 1 cup fresh salsa
  • Lime wedges for serving
Instructions
  1. 1. In a skillet, heat black chickpeas with chili powder and cumin until warmed through.
  2. 2. Warm tortillas in a separate pan.
  3. 3. Assemble tacos by adding black chickpeas, avocado slices, and salsa. Serve with lime wedges.

Black Chickpea Stir-Fry

A quick and nutritious stir-fry featuring black chickpeas, colorful vegetables, and a savory soy sauce glaze.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup cooked black chickpeas
  • 1 cup mixed bell peppers, sliced
  • 1 cup broccoli florets
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
  • Cooked brown rice for serving
Instructions
  1. 1. Heat sesame oil in a wok and add bell peppers and broccoli; stir-fry for 3-4 minutes.
  2. 2. Add black chickpeas, ginger, and soy sauce; cook for another 2 minutes.
  3. 3. Serve over cooked brown rice.

Black Chickpea and Spinach Soup

A comforting and nutritious soup made with black chickpeas, fresh spinach, and aromatic spices.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup cooked black chickpeas
  • 4 cups vegetable broth
  • 2 cups fresh spinach
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 teaspoon turmeric
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a pot, sauté onion and garlic until soft.
  2. 2. Add vegetable broth, black chickpeas, turmeric, salt, and pepper; bring to a boil.
  3. 3. Stir in spinach and simmer for 5 minutes before serving.

Black Chickpea Burgers

Delicious and hearty black chickpea burgers that are perfect for grilling and packed with flavor.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup cooked black chickpeas
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped
  • 1 tablespoon cumin
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Whole grain buns for serving
Instructions
  1. 1. In a bowl, mash black chickpeas and mix in breadcrumbs, onion, cumin, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
  2. 2. Form into patties and grill for 5-7 minutes on each side.
  3. 3. Serve on whole grain buns with your favorite toppings.

Black Chickpea and Sweet Potato Mash

A creamy and nutritious mash combining black chickpeas and sweet potatoes, perfect as a side dish.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup cooked black chickpeas
  • 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Boil sweet potatoes until tender, then drain.
  2. 2. In a bowl, mash sweet potatoes with black chickpeas, olive oil, salt, and pepper until smooth.
  3. 3. Serve warm as a side dish.

Black Chickpea Energy Balls

Nutritious energy balls made with black chickpeas, oats, and nut butter, perfect for a healthy snack.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup cooked black chickpeas
  • 1 cup rolled oats
  • 1/2 cup almond butter
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
  1. 1. In a bowl, combine black chickpeas, oats, almond butter, honey, chocolate chips, and vanilla extract.
  2. 2. Mix well and form into small balls.
  3. 3. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What are the health benefits of black chickpeas?

Black chickpeas are high in protein and fiber, which can aid in weight management and improve digestive health.

How can I incorporate black chickpeas into my diet?

You can add them to salads, soups, or curries, or use them to make hummus.

Are black chickpeas gluten-free?

Yes, black chickpeas are naturally gluten-free and safe for those with gluten intolerance.

How should I store black chickpeas?

Store dried black chickpeas in a cool, dry place in an airtight container. Cooked chickpeas can be refrigerated for up to a week.

Can black chickpeas help with weight loss?

Yes, their high fiber and protein content can promote satiety and reduce overall calorie intake.

What is the difference between black chickpeas and regular chickpeas?

Black chickpeas have a nuttier flavor and higher fiber content compared to the more common beige chickpeas.

How do I cook black chickpeas?

Soak them overnight, then boil for 45-60 minutes until tender.

Are there any side effects of eating black chickpeas?

Excessive consumption may lead to gas and bloating, especially if not introduced gradually into the diet.