K.R.
Hummus is ground chick peas/Garbanzo Beans. They come in a can, like other beans, and are very versatile! I toss them in a food processor with garlic salt and olive oil to make hummus. it is great on sandwiches or pita, or as a vegetable dip.
but if u do the same thing to them, but add tahini, shredded carrot, and flour while it is in the processor (maybe less olive oil than for hummus) until it is a consistency u can pat into patties. then put the thin patties into the oven, and Boom! you have falafel!
put it in a pita with lettuce cucumber, tomato, and tzatziki. (basically greek yogurt blended w cucumber and maybe a touch of lemon juice)
U can definitely find more extensive recipes online.
Also! check out Quinoa.
I believe it was a staple grain of the Aztecs. (but i cant say i have really read up on that! lol)
dont buy it ground, buy it whole. It will look like little balls. You can get it in the bulk bins at Whole Foods, or in a box at walmart.
this is a grain, but it is really high in protein! it will seriously fill u up!
u basically cook it like rice, and use it like you would rice or pasta. You can eat it hot, or cold like a pasta salad.
it is very bland, just like rice or pasta, so you will need to eat it with something else. i recommend a spicy coconut curry with veggies!