chickpeas

A chickpea is a small, edible seed that's often used in cooking.

You'll commonly see chickpeas mentioned in recipes for salads, stews, and dips like hummus. They have a nutty flavor and are a good source of protein, which makes them a popular choice for vegetarians and vegans. People will also talk about using chickpeas as a substitute for meat in dishes like veggie burgers or curries. In some cases, people might refer to chickpea flour (also called gram flour) when they're baking things like bread or making pasta.