Which falafel legume is also called a garbanzo bean?

The falafel legume also called a garbanzo bean is the chickpea. “Chickpea,” “garbanzo,” and “garbanzo bean” are common names for the same cultivated legume, Cicer arietinum.

Chickpeas are especially associated with Levantine falafel, where dried seeds are typically soaked, ground with herbs and spices, shaped, and fried. This differs from Egyptian ta'ameya, which is traditionally based on fava beans, although recipes can vary and some use a mixture of legumes.

Two broad cultivated types are commonly discussed: the larger, smooth, tan Kabuli type and the smaller, darker, often rough-coated Desi type. Kabuli chickpeas are widespread around the Mediterranean and Middle East, while Desi types are especially important in South Asia.

Garbanzo is not a different bean from a chickpea, and it should not be confused with peas, lentils, or fava beans. The names reflect regional and historical vocabulary rather than separate botanical species. Chickpeas are also central to hummus and many South Asian dishes.