Vegan Sticky Sesame Chickpeas

Easy, flavorful, and packed with plant protein, Vegan Sticky Sesame Chickpeas are a fantastic option for any meal. This quick chickpea recipe is ready in just 15 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep. The sweet and savory flavors make it a crowd-pleaser for both family dinners and casual gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: Ready in just 15 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy days.
• Full of Flavor: The combination of sesame oil, garlic, and maple syrup creates a mouthwatering sauce that will delight your taste buds.
• Versatile Dish: Serve these sticky chickpeas with rice, quinoa, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
• High in Protein: Packed with plant protein from chickpeas, this dish supports a balanced diet.
• Great for Meal Prep: Make a big batch ahead of time to enjoy throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare your Vegan Sticky Sesame Chickpeas efficiently, gather the necessary tools. Having everything prepped will make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Sauté pan
• Garlic press (optional)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Sauté pan: Ideal for quickly cooking ingredients while allowing flavors to meld beautifully.
• Garlic press: Ensures finely minced garlic that blends seamlessly into the sauce without large pieces.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Help maintain accurate ingredient proportions for consistent results.
• Mixing bowl: Provides space to combine ingredients efficiently before adding them to the sauté pan.

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Ingredients

To create your Vegan Sticky Sesame Chickpeas, 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

Start by draining and rinsing the chickpeas thoroughly. Set them aside as you prepare the sauce.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic

In a sauté pan over medium heat:
* Add minced garlic along with avocado or olive oil.
* Use a garlic press to ensure it’s finely minced.
* Sauté until fragrant, about 2 minutes.

Step 3: Mix the Sauce

In a small mixing bowl:
* Combine tapioca starch and half of the vegetable broth.
* Stir until smooth without clumps.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients in Pan

Add to the sauté pan:
* Low sodium tamari or soy sauce
* Toasted sesame oil
* Maple syrup
* Rice vinegar
* Ground ginger
* Remaining vegetable broth

Whisk all together until well combined.

Step 5: Thicken the Sauce

Stir in the tapioca mixture from earlier:
* Cook until bubbles form.
* Add in chickpeas and stir until they are coated in sauce.

Step 6: Final Cooking Steps

Reduce heat to low:
* Let cook until sauce thickens and becomes sticky, about 5 minutes. Stir occasionally.

Step 7: Serve

Remove from heat and let sit briefly:
Serve your Vegan Sticky Sesame Chickpeas hot alongside steamed broccoli, quinoa, or rice for a delightful meal!

How to Serve Vegan Sticky Sesame Chickpeas

These Vegan Sticky Sesame Chickpeas are versatile and can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. Whether you’re looking for a quick meal or a delicious side dish, here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

Over Steamed Rice

• Serve the chickpeas over a bed of fluffy steamed rice for a filling meal that soaks up all the flavorful sauce.

With Quinoa

• Pair the chickpeas with cooked quinoa for a protein-packed dish that adds a nutty flavor and texture.

In Lettuce Wraps

• Use large lettuce leaves to create wraps filled with chickpeas, adding fresh veggies for crunch and color.

On Top of Salads

• Add the sticky sesame chickpeas to your favorite salad for an extra boost of protein and flavor.

With Stir-Fried Vegetables

• Serve alongside stir-fried vegetables for a colorful plate that complements the sweet and savory taste of the chickpeas.

As a Snack

• Enjoy them as a tasty snack right out of the pan, perfect for satisfying those mid-day cravings.

How to Perfect Vegan Sticky Sesame Chickpeas

To achieve the best results when making Vegan Sticky Sesame Chickpeas, follow these helpful tips for maximum flavor and texture.

• Use Fresh Garlic: Fresh garlic will provide a more robust flavor compared to pre-minced options. Mince it finely for even distribution in your sauce.
• Monitor Heat Levels: Keep an eye on your heat while cooking. A low simmer allows the sauce to thicken without burning.
• Adjust Sweetness: Feel free to adjust the maple syrup based on your sweetness preference. You can start with less and add more if desired.
• Experiment with Spices: For added depth, try incorporating spices like cumin or smoked paprika along with red pepper flakes.
• Let It Rest: Allowing the dish to sit after cooking helps the chickpeas absorb more flavor from the sauce.
• Store Properly: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove.

Best Side Dishes for Vegan Sticky Sesame Chickpeas

These Vegan Sticky Sesame Chickpeas pair wonderfully with various side dishes that complement their rich flavors. Here are some excellent options:

1. Steamed Broccoli: Bright green broccoli provides a crunchy contrast and balances out the sweetness of the chickpeas.
2. Brown Rice: Nutty brown rice makes for a wholesome base that absorbs all the delicious sauce from the chickpeas.
3. Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad adds lightness and crispness, enhancing your meal’s overall texture.
4. Roasted Cauliflower: Seasoned roasted cauliflower offers a hearty side that pairs well with the sweet sesame flavor.
5. Vegetable Stir-Fry: A mix of colorful stir-fried vegetables adds nutrition and vibrancy alongside your chickpea dish.
6. Garlic Noodles: Savory garlic noodles make for a comforting side that complements the sticky sesame sauce beautifully.
7. Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup serves as an aromatic starter that prepares your palate for bold flavors ahead.
8. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with herbs and lemon juice can provide freshness and balance to this rich dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Vegan Sticky Sesame Chickpeas, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the dish’s flavor and texture.

• Boldly skip the rinsing: Not rinsing chickpeas can lead to a tinny taste. Always drain and rinse them thoroughly before use to enhance their flavor.
• Boldly ignore garlic preparation: Large pieces of garlic can overpower the dish. Mince finely or use a garlic press to ensure even flavor distribution.
• Boldly rush the cooking time: Cooking for too short a time leaves the sauce thin. Allow it to thicken properly by cooking for at least 5 minutes after adding the chickpeas.
• Boldly forget about seasoning adjustments: Using regular soy sauce may make it too salty. Opt for low sodium options or adjust according to your taste preferences.
• Boldly overlook storage tips: Improper storage can lead to loss of flavor. Make sure to store in airtight containers for freshness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Allow to cool completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.

Freezing Vegan Sticky Sesame Chickpeas

• Freeze in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months.
• To thaw, place in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating Vegan Sticky Sesame Chickpeas

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm, stirring occasionally.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until heated through.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat, stirring frequently until warmed through, adding a splash of broth if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

What can I serve with Vegan Sticky Sesame Chickpeas?

You can serve these chickpeas with steamed broccoli, quinoa, or rice for a balanced meal.

Can I customize the spice level of Vegan Sticky Sesame Chickpeas?

Absolutely! You can adjust the amount of red pepper flakes or add other spices like cayenne pepper according to your preference.

How do I store leftovers of Vegan Sticky Sesame Chickpeas?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days or freeze them for longer storage.

Can I use fresh ginger instead of ground ginger?

Yes! Fresh ginger will add a bright flavor but be sure to adjust the quantity as fresh ginger is typically more potent than ground ginger.

Are Vegan Sticky Sesame Chickpeas gluten-free?

If you use gluten-free tamari instead of soy sauce, then yes, this recipe is gluten-free!

Final Thoughts

Vegan Sticky Sesame Chickpeas are not only easy and quick to prepare but also packed with flavor and nutrition. This versatile recipe allows you to customize it with your favorite veggies or grains. Whether you’re meal prepping or looking for a quick dinner option, these chickpeas will surely delight your taste buds!