Vegan Sticky Sesame Chickpeas

Easy, flavorful, and packed with plant protein, Vegan Sticky Sesame Chickpeas are a quick and delicious dinner that the whole family will love. They’re ready in just 15 minutes and are perfect for meal prep or as a crowd-pleasing dish for gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: This recipe comes together in just 15 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful and Savory: The combination of sesame oil, garlic, and tamari creates an irresistible sticky sauce that coats each chickpea.
• Packed with Protein: Chickpeas are a fantastic source of plant-based protein, making this dish not only tasty but also nutritious.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy these chickpeas over rice, quinoa, or alongside steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
• Meal Prep Friendly: This dish stores well in the fridge, perfect for easy lunches throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, having the right tools is essential. Here’s what you’ll need.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Sauté pan: A good sauté pan ensures even cooking and helps develop flavors quickly as you sauté the garlic and combine ingredients.
• Garlic press: Using a garlic press allows for finely minced garlic that blends seamlessly into the sauce without large pieces.
• Small mixing bowl: This is necessary for combining the tapioca starch with broth to create a smooth mixture without clumps.
• Whisk: A whisk is ideal for combining sauces and ensuring everything is well mixed for a uniform flavor.

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Ingredients

For the Chickpeas

• 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 and set them aside.

Step 2: Sauté Garlic

Mince the garlic using a garlic press. Add it to a sauté pan with the avocado or olive oil. Sauté for a few minutes until the garlic is fragrant.

Step 3: Mix Tapioca Starch

In a small bowl, combine the tapioca starch with half of the vegetable broth. Mix until no clumps remain. Set it aside.

Step 4: Combine Sauces

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

Step 5: Thicken Sauce

Add in the tapioca mixture from Step 3. Stir well until bubbles start to form.

Step 6: Add Chickpeas

Once bubbling occurs, add in the rinsed chickpeas. Stir until they are well coated with sauce.

Step 7: Cook Until Sticky

Cook on low heat until the sauce becomes thick and sticky, about 5 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 8: Final Touches

Remove from heat and let sit briefly allowing chickpeas to absorb flavors before serving.

Step 9: Serve

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

How to Serve Vegan Sticky Sesame Chickpeas

These Vegan Sticky Sesame Chickpeas are incredibly versatile and can be served in many delightful ways. Pair them with different sides or incorporate them into various dishes to elevate your meals.

With Steamed Vegetables

• Broccoli: The crunchy texture complements the sticky chickpeas perfectly.
• Snow Peas: Their sweetness balances the savory flavors of the dish.
• Carrots: Add a pop of color and natural sweetness to your plate.

Over Grains

• Quinoa: This protein-rich grain pairs beautifully, making for a wholesome meal.
• Brown Rice: A hearty base that absorbs the sauce well.
• Couscous: Quick to prepare, couscous adds a fluffy texture that enhances every bite.

In Wraps or Bowls

• Lettuce Wraps: Use large leaves for a fresh, crunchy wrap that’s low in carbs.
• Grain Bowls: Combine chickpeas with grains, greens, and toppings for a filling meal.
• Pita Pockets: Stuff warm pita with chickpeas and your favorite veggies for a tasty handheld option.

How to Perfect Vegan Sticky Sesame Chickpeas

To make this dish even better, consider these helpful tips. They will ensure you achieve the ideal flavor and texture every time.

• Use Fresh Garlic: Freshly minced garlic provides more robust flavor compared to pre-minced options.
• Toast Your Sesame Oil: Lightly heating the sesame oil before adding it enhances its nutty aroma.
• Check Sauce Thickness: Always allow the sauce to thicken before adding chickpeas; this helps coat them evenly.
• Adjust Sweetness: Feel free to modify the amount of maple syrup based on your taste preference.
• Add More Spice: For those who enjoy heat, increase red pepper flakes or add chili sauce for an extra kick.

Best Side Dishes for Vegan Sticky Sesame Chickpeas

Complement your Vegan Sticky Sesame Chickpeas with these delicious side dishes. Each one adds unique flavors and textures to enhance your meal experience.

1. Steamed Broccoli: Bright and nutritious, it adds vibrant color and crunch.
2. Garlic Rice: Infused with garlic flavor, this rice dish pairs perfectly with the sticky sauce.
3. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness contrasts well with the savory chickpeas.
4. Sautéed Spinach: Quick and easy, sautéed spinach brings a fresh touch to your plate.
5. Cucumber Salad: A refreshing side that offers a nice crunch and balances richness.
6. Quinoa Salad: Tossed with herbs and lemon, this salad adds brightness and texture.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can enhance your cooking experience and the final dish. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Using unseasoned chickpeas: Always season the chickpeas well. This ensures that they absorb the flavors of the sauce and enhance the overall taste.
• Overcooking the garlic: Garlic can burn quickly, leading to a bitter flavor. Sauté it just until fragrant to maintain its sweetness.
• Not whisking the sauce properly: Ensure all ingredients, especially the tapioca starch, are well combined. This prevents clumps and ensures a smooth sauce.
• Skipping the resting time: Letting the chickpeas sit after cooking allows them to absorb more flavor from the sauce. Don’t rush this step!
• Ignoring optional ingredients: Ingredients like red pepper flakes can elevate your dish with added spice. Adjust according to your preference.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Vegan Sticky Sesame Chickpeas

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• Portion into smaller containers for easy thawing.

Reheating Vegan Sticky Sesame Chickpeas

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish; heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat on medium-low with a splash of broth or water, stirring occasionally until warm.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions regarding Vegan Sticky Sesame Chickpeas:

Can I make Vegan Sticky Sesame Chickpeas ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare them ahead of time! They store well in the fridge and their flavors actually improve overnight.

What can I serve with Vegan Sticky Sesame Chickpeas?

These chickpeas pair perfectly with steamed broccoli, quinoa, or rice for a complete meal.

Are Vegan Sticky Sesame Chickpeas gluten-free?

Yes, if you use gluten-free tamari instead of soy sauce, this dish remains gluten-free.

How do I customize Vegan Sticky Sesame Chickpeas?

Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or carrots for more texture and nutrition. You can also adjust sweetness by adding more or less maple syrup.

Final Thoughts

Vegan Sticky Sesame Chickpeas are not only quick and easy but also full of flavor and protein. This dish is perfect for meal prep or a weeknight dinner. Feel free to customize it with your favorite veggies or spice levels. Give it a try—you’ll love how versatile and delicious it is!