Black Chick peas or Small Dark Garbanzos are available whole and have a particular savory flavor. Their cooking time varies from 30 minutes to an hour, based on variety. These beans retain their shape and are therefore desirable in a salad or are lightly sautéed and mixed with fresh diced onions, minced cilantro and lime juice as a side dish. Chick peas can be cooked with or without salt, sautéed in garlic butter, or with mayonnaise and lightly cooked vegetables to make a delicious salad.
Chick peas are called Chana in Indian. Once cooked they hold their shape well and have a delightful nutty flavour. Popular in Indian food like Chana masala, chana chaat.