gr. flour
Rich in plant-based protein and dietary fiber, with significant amounts of iron, folate, and manganese. A naturally gluten-free flour suitable for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.
About
Gram flour, also known as chickpea flour, besan, or garbanzo flour, is a fine powder milled from dried chickpeas (Cicer arietinum). Originating in the Indian subcontinent, this gluten-free flour has a pale yellow color and a slightly nutty, earthy flavor with subtle sweetness. The chickpeas are typically husked, dried, and ground into a flour with a fine, smooth texture that resembles wheat flour. Gram flour differs from whole chickpea flour in that the seed coat is removed before grinding, resulting in a lighter color and finer consistency.
Culinary Uses
Gram flour is a staple ingredient in Indian, Middle Eastern, and South Asian cuisines, prized for both its nutritional density and functional properties in cooking. It serves as a primary ingredient in pakora (vegetable fritters), dhokla (steamed cake), and various batters and doughs. The flour's binding and thickening properties make it valuable in vegetarian cuisine as a binder for patties and burgers. Additionally, gram flour is used to make traditional face masks and beauty pastes, though its culinary applications remain its primary use in kitchens. It pairs well with warm spices, fresh herbs, and vegetables, and functions as a gluten-free alternative in baking, though it produces denser, more crumbly results than wheat flour.