Also known as chickpeas, ceci beans and channa, garbanzo beans have a pale, buff color and an irregular, round shape, and they are slightly larger than a pea. Originating in West Asia, garbanzos now span the globe as an essential legume, found in such dishes as curries in India, hummus in the Middle East, minestrone soup in Italy and couscous in Morocco. To prepare dried beans, soak overnight, bring to a boil and simmer 2-1/2 to 3 hours. Store dried beans in an airtight container for up to 1 year. Cooked garbanzo beans are also available canned.