The Baladi Hummus is believed to be the Desi strain which is one of the three main kinds of chickpeas. 'Desi' has small, darker seeds and a rough coat. It is grown mostly in India and other parts of the Indian subcontinent, as well as in Ethiopia, Mexico, and Iran. Desi means 'country' or 'local' in Hindustani; its other names include Bengal gram or kala chana ("black chickpea" in both Hindi and Urdu) or chhola boot. 'Desi' is probably the earliest variety because it closely resembles seeds found both on archaeological sites and the wild plant ancestor Cicer reticulatum of domesticated chickpeas 'Desi' chickpeas have a markedly higher fiber content than other varieties, hence a very low glycemic index, which may make them suitable for people with blood sugar problems.
