grãodebico

Grão-de-bico, written grão-de-bico in standard Portuguese and sometimes seen as grãodebico without diacritics, is the Brazilian Portuguese name for the chickpea (Cicer arietinum), a small legume in the Fabaceae family. It is cultivated for its edible seeds, which come in two main commercial types: Kabuli, which are larger and light-colored, and Desi, which are smaller, darker, and more speckled.

Chickpeas grow best in warm, sunny climates and are commonly cultivated in regions of the Middle East, the Mediterranean, South Asia, and Africa. They require well-drained soil and are often grown as a rotation crop because they are nitrogen-fixing. Typical harvest cycles range from about 90 to 110 days, depending on variety and climate.

Nutritionally, cooked chickpeas are a good source of plant-based protein, complex carbohydrates, and dietary fiber. A 100-gram serving provides approximately 164 calories, around 8–9 grams of protein, and several minerals such as iron, magnesium, and folate. They are naturally gluten-free and have a moderate glycemic index, making them a common staple in vegetarian and vegan diets.

Culinary uses are varied: hummus, falafel, chana masala, soups, stews, salads, and side dishes across Middle Eastern, Indian, Mediterranean, and other cuisines. They are available dried or canned, with dried chickpeas requiring soaking and longer cooking times, while canned varieties offer convenience.

Historically domesticated in the Near East several millennia ago, chickpeas remain a major crop today, with India often accounting for the largest share of world production, followed by other major producers such as Australia, Turkey, and Mexico.