An all-black garbanzo, also known as Ceci Neri, in Italy is VERY unique! These garbanzo beans look as if they have been covered in activated charcoal but don't let their color intimidate you. They have a nice firm texture with a nice earthy, nutty flavor. They are denser than a classic garbanzo making them ideal for salads, stews, or baked dishes. The plants produce medium-sized bushes that, once fully dried, can be shucked as with other garbanzo bean varieties. Black garbanzo are slightly higher in protein and fibre than white chickpeas, and they also contain more iron, folate, and antioxidants.