Gram Flour
Gram flour, also known as chickpea flour or besan, is a finely ground powder made from dried chickpeas. It originated on the Indian subcontinent, where chickpeas have been grown since they spread there from the Middle East thousands of years ago.
The flour has a nutty, earthy, slightly sweet flavor profile and a fine, powdery texture. Its high protein content and gluten-free nature make it a common binding agent, a coating for fried foods, and a wheat flour substitute in vegetarian and vegan cooking.
Gram flour is a staple across South Asia (in pakoras, bhajias, chana masala) and the Middle East, where it is used for falafel and other fried snacks. It pairs well with cumin, coriander, turmeric, chili peppers, onion, and garlic.