Friday, October 12, 2007

Kala Chana


Kala Chana also commonly known as Black Chick Peas or Small Dark Garbanzos. 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.

Health Tips: It is often used as an alternative protein product with vegetarians and vegans and is one of the plants with the highest amount of protein. Chickpeas are a good source of zinc, folate and protein. They are also very high in dietary fiber and thus are a healthy food source, especially as a source of carbohydrates for persons with insulin sensitivity or diabetes. They are low in fat, and most of the fat content is polyunsaturated.