Chickpeas, or chana, are an ancient variety of legume that have been eaten in India for centuries. There are different varieties of chickpeas available, but the variety most often used are the pale, mild legumes also known as garbanzo beans. In Indian markets you’ll also find black chickpeas (or kala chana), which are darker and smaller than regular chickpeas. Chana masala is an extremely popular dish in both India and the U.S. This recipe from Indian Cuisine Diabetes Cookbook , by May Abraham Fridel.