Originally cultivated in the Mediterranean and Middle East, chickpeas, also known as garbanzo beans, have spread their culinary influence across the world. They have a range of potential health benefits. Though the most common type of chickpea appears round and beige, other varieties can be black, green and red. Like other legumes, such as beans, peas and lentils, chickpeas are high in fibre and protein and contain several key vitamins and minerals.