Vegan Sticky Sesame Chickpeas

Easy, flavorful, and packed with plant protein, Vegan Sticky Sesame Chickpeas are the perfect quick dinner option for any occasion. Ready in just 15 minutes, these chickpeas are not only delicious but also versatile enough for meal prep or weeknight dinners. With their sticky glaze and savory notes, they’re sure to become a family favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: This recipe takes only 15 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful: The combination of garlic, sesame oil, and maple syrup creates a delightful sticky sauce that elevates the chickpeas.
• Nutritious: Packed with plant protein and fiber, these chickpeas offer a healthy addition to your meals.
• Versatile: Serve them over rice, quinoa, or alongside steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make a batch at the beginning of the week to enjoy as leftovers or in various dishes.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare these delicious Vegan Sticky Sesame Chickpeas, you’ll need a few essential tools that will make cooking easier and more efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Sauté pan
• Garlic press
• Small mixing bowl
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Sauté pan: A good sauté pan allows for even cooking and helps develop flavors when sautéing garlic.
• Garlic press: Using a garlic press ensures finely minced garlic that disperses flavor evenly throughout the dish.
• Small mixing bowl: Ideal for combining ingredients like tapioca starch and broth without creating clumps.
• Whisk: A whisk helps emulsify sauces smoothly for an even coating on the chickpeas.

Ingredients

For this easy Vegan Sticky Sesame Chickpeas recipe, gather the following ingredients:

• 2 15 ounce cans chickpeas
• 3-4 large cloves garlic
• 1 tablespoon avocado oil or olive oil
• 1.5 tablespoons toasted sesame oil
• 1/3 cup low sodium tamari or soy sauce
• 3 tablespoons maple syrup
• 2 teaspoons rice vinegar
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1 tablespoon tapioca starch
• 1/4 cup low sodium vegetable broth or water (divided)
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for spice)

How to Make Vegan Sticky Sesame Chickpeas

Step 1: Prepare the Chickpeas

Drain and rinse the chickpeas thoroughly under cold water. Set them aside while you prepare the sauce.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic

Mince the garlic using a garlic press and add it to a sauté pan with avocado or olive oil.
* Sauté for a few minutes until the garlic becomes fragrant.

Step 3: Mix the Sauce

In a small bowl:
* Combine tapioca starch with half of the vegetable broth.
* Mix until no clumps remain; set aside.

Step 4: Create the Sticky Sauce

To the sauté pan with garlic:
* Add low sodium soy sauce, toasted sesame oil, maple syrup, rice vinegar, ground ginger, and remaining vegetable broth.
* Whisk together until fully combined.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Add the tapioca mixture to the sauté pan:
* Stir until well combined.
* When bubbles begin to form, add in the chickpeas.

Step 6: Thicken the Sauce

Cook on low heat:
* Allow the sauce to thicken and become sticky—this should take about 5 minutes.
* Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 7: Final Touches

Remove from heat:
* Let sit briefly so that chickpeas can absorb all of that amazing flavor before serving.

Step 8: Serve

Serve your Vegan Sticky Sesame Chickpeas with steamed broccoli, quinoa, or rice for a complete meal. Enjoy!

How to Serve Vegan Sticky Sesame Chickpeas

Vegan Sticky Sesame Chickpeas are versatile and can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you want a light meal or a filling feast, these chickpeas can fit into your dining plans effortlessly.

With Steamed Vegetables

• Broccoli: The crunchiness of steamed broccoli pairs perfectly with the sticky sauce.
• Carrots: Sweet and tender, carrots add color and nutrition to your plate.

Over Quinoa

• Quinoa: This protein-packed grain complements the chickpeas’ flavor and enhances your meal’s nutritional value.

With Rice

• Brown Rice: A hearty base that absorbs the delicious sticky sauce well.
• Jasmine Rice: Its fragrant aroma adds an exotic touch to your dish.

In Wraps

• Lettuce Wraps: Use large lettuce leaves to create a fresh and crunchy wrap filled with chickpeas.
• Whole Wheat Tortilla: Spread some chickpeas in a tortilla for a quick and tasty meal on the go.

How to Perfect Vegan Sticky Sesame Chickpeas

To make the most of your Vegan Sticky Sesame Chickpeas, consider these helpful tips for enhancing flavor and texture.

• Use Fresh Garlic: Freshly minced garlic will provide a stronger, more aromatic flavor compared to pre-minced options.
• Adjust the Spice: Add more red pepper flakes if you enjoy extra heat or omit them for a milder taste.
• Thicken the Sauce: For a thicker sauce, let it simmer a bit longer, stirring occasionally until it reaches your desired consistency.
• Experiment with Greens: Add spinach or kale during cooking for added nutrition and vibrant color.
• Garnish Creatively: Top with sesame seeds or chopped green onions before serving for an appealing presentation.

Best Side Dishes for Vegan Sticky Sesame Chickpeas

Pairing side dishes with your Vegan Sticky Sesame Chickpeas can elevate your meal. Here are some delicious options to consider.

1. Coconut Rice: The subtle sweetness of coconut rice complements the savory flavors of the chickpeas beautifully.
2. Sautéed Spinach: Quickly sautéed spinach provides a nutritious green contrast that balances the dish.
3. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness offers a delightful contrast to the sticky sesame sauce.
4. Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad can cleanse the palate while adding crunch.
5. Miso Soup: This warm soup is comforting and pairs well with the richness of vegan chickpeas.
6. Grilled Zucchini: Lightly grilled zucchini adds smoky flavors that enhance the overall dining experience.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To make the best Vegan Sticky Sesame Chickpeas, avoid these common pitfalls.

• Using unseasoned chickpeas: Always season your chickpeas after rinsing to enhance their flavor. A sprinkle of salt can make a big difference.
• Overcooking the garlic: Sauté garlic just until fragrant. Overcooking can lead to a bitter taste that ruins the dish.
• Neglecting the tapioca starch mixture: It’s crucial to mix the tapioca starch with broth until smooth before adding it to the pan. This prevents clumps in your sauce.
• Skipping the resting time: Allowing the chickpeas to sit after cooking lets them absorb all the flavors. Skipping this step can lead to blandness.
• Not adjusting spice levels: If you prefer less heat, reduce or omit red pepper flakes. Adjusting spice is key for personal preference.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Allow the chickpeas to cool completely before sealing.

Freezing Vegan Sticky Sesame Chickpeas

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• Separate servings in small portions for easy thawing.

Reheating Vegan Sticky Sesame Chickpeas

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts of 30 seconds, stirring in between until hot.
• Stovetop: Warm over low heat in a pan, stirring frequently for even heating.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Vegan Sticky Sesame Chickpeas.

How do I make Vegan Sticky Sesame Chickpeas gluten-free?

You can easily make this recipe gluten-free by using tamari instead of soy sauce, ensuring all other ingredients are also gluten-free.

Can I use dried chickpeas instead of canned?

Yes, you can use dried chickpeas! Just soak and cook them beforehand according to package instructions before proceeding with the recipe.

What should I serve with Vegan Sticky Sesame Chickpeas?

These chickpeas pair well with steamed vegetables, quinoa, or rice. You can also enjoy them in wraps or on salads.

How long does it take to prepare Vegan Sticky Sesame Chickpeas?

This dish takes only 15 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for quick weeknight meals.

Final Thoughts

Vegan Sticky Sesame Chickpeas are a quick, flavorful option that packs a protein punch. This versatile recipe allows for customization—feel free to add your favorite veggies or adjust the spices according to your taste. Give it a try and experience its deliciousness!