Vegan Sticky Sesame Chickpeas

Easy, flavorful, and packed with plant protein, Vegan Sticky Sesame Chickpeas are the perfect quick dish for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a speedy weeknight dinner or a delicious meal prep option, this chickpea recipe is both satisfying and versatile. Ready in just 15 minutes, these sticky sesame chickpeas will delight your taste buds and keep you coming back for more.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With only 15 minutes of cook time, this recipe is ideal for busy weeknights.
• Flavor Packed: The combination of garlic, sesame, and maple syrup creates an irresistible sauce.
• Protein-Rich: Chickpeas provide a healthy dose of plant protein to keep you full.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it over rice, quinoa, or alongside steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make a batch ahead of time for easy lunches throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

To make these Vegan Sticky Sesame Chickpeas, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment makes cooking smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Sauté pan
• Garlic press
• Measuring spoons
• Mixing bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Sauté pan: A good sauté pan ensures even cooking and allows you to stir the chickpeas easily.
• Garlic press: This tool finely minces garlic quickly, ensuring a burst of flavor without large pieces.
• Measuring spoons: Accurate measurements are crucial for balancing flavors in the sauce.
• Mixing bowl: A mixing bowl helps combine ingredients smoothly without mess.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Ingredients

For this Vegan Sticky Sesame Chickpeas recipe, you’ll need:

• 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

1. Drain and rinse the chickpeas well. Set them aside to allow excess water to drain off.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic

1. Mince the garlic using a garlic press for finely minced pieces that enhance the flavor.
2. Heat a sauté pan over medium heat and add the avocado or olive oil.
3. Add the minced garlic to the pan and sauté for a few minutes until fragrant.

Step 3: Create the Sauce

1. In a small bowl, combine the tapioca starch with half of the vegetable broth. Mix until smooth with no clumps.
2. To the sauté pan with garlic, add low sodium tamari or soy sauce, toasted sesame oil, maple syrup, rice vinegar, ground ginger, and the remaining vegetable broth.
3. Whisk all ingredients together until well combined.

Step 4: Combine Chickpeas and Sauce

1. Add in the tapioca mixture from step 3 into the pan while stirring continuously.
2. Once bubbles start forming in the sauce, gently fold in the drained chickpeas until they are well coated.

Step 5: Cook Until Thickened

1. Reduce heat to low and cook for about 5 minutes while stirring occasionally until the sauce thickens to a sticky consistency.
2. Remove from heat and let sit briefly so that chickpeas can absorb all flavors before serving.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

Serve your Vegan Sticky Sesame Chickpeas over steamed broccoli, fluffy quinoa, or rice for a satisfying meal! Enjoy your delicious creation!

How to Serve Vegan Sticky Sesame Chickpeas

Vegan Sticky Sesame Chickpeas are not only delicious but also versatile. You can serve them in various ways to suit your taste and meal preferences.

With Steamed Vegetables

• Broccoli: Steamed broccoli pairs perfectly with the sticky chickpeas, adding a nutritious crunch.
• Carrots: Bright orange steamed carrots add a sweet contrast to the savory chickpeas.

Over Grains

• Quinoa: This protein-packed grain complements the flavors of the dish and adds texture.
• Brown Rice: A classic choice that absorbs the sauce beautifully and makes for a filling meal.

In Wraps or Bowls

• Lettuce Wraps: Use large lettuce leaves to create refreshing wraps filled with chickpeas and crunchy veggies.
• Grain Bowls: Combine chickpeas with your favorite grains, fresh vegetables, and a drizzle of extra sauce for a hearty bowl.

As an Appetizer

• Toasted Bread Slices: Serve on toasted bread as an appetizer or snack for a flavorful treat.
• Rice Paper Rolls: Roll the chickpeas in rice paper with fresh herbs for a fun finger food option.

How to Perfect Vegan Sticky Sesame Chickpeas

To achieve the best results with your Vegan Sticky Sesame Chickpeas, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Garlic: Fresh garlic enhances the flavor significantly compared to pre-minced options.
• Adjust Spice Level: Customize the heat by adding more or less red pepper flakes based on your preference.
• Thicken Sauce Properly: Ensure you whisk the tapioca starch mixture well to avoid lumps in your sauce.
• Let It Sit: Allowing the dish to sit after cooking helps the chickpeas absorb all the delicious flavors.
• Experiment with Toppings: Consider topping your dish with sesame seeds or sliced green onions for added texture and flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Vegan Sticky Sesame Chickpeas

Pairing Vegan Sticky Sesame Chickpeas with complementary side dishes can elevate your meal experience. Here are some great options:

1. Steamed Asparagus: Tender asparagus adds a fresh touch and is quick to prepare.
2. Coconut Rice: This aromatic rice dish provides a subtle sweetness that harmonizes well with sesame flavors.
3. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Crispy roasted sweet potatoes offer a delightful contrast in texture and taste.
4. Cabbage Slaw: A crunchy slaw made from cabbage and carrots adds freshness and brightness to your plate.
5. Garlic Noodles: Tossed in garlic and oil, these noodles make an easy yet flavorful accompaniment.
6. Cauliflower Rice: Light and fluffy, cauliflower rice is a low-carb option that soaks up the sauce beautifully.
7. Pickled Vegetables: Adding pickled veggies brings tanginess that cuts through the richness of the dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Vegan Sticky Sesame Chickpeas, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the final dish. Here are some tips to help you avoid them.

• Using unseasoned chickpeas: Always rinse and drain your canned chickpeas. Not rinsing can leave a metallic taste in your dish.
• Overcooking garlic: Garlic can burn quickly and become bitter. Sauté it until fragrant but not browned to maintain its delicious flavor.
• Skipping the tapioca starch mix: This is essential for thickening the sauce. Make sure to mix it with broth until smooth before adding it to the pan.
• Not adjusting for spice: If you enjoy spicy food, don’t forget to add red pepper flakes. Start with a little and adjust according to your taste preferences.
• Ignoring resting time: Allowing the chickpeas to sit after cooking helps them absorb all the flavors from the sauce. Don’t skip this step for maximum taste!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Make sure to cool completely before sealing to avoid moisture buildup.

Freezing Vegan Sticky Sesame Chickpeas

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• Separate into portions for easy reheating later.

Reheating Vegan Sticky Sesame Chickpeas

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread on a baking sheet and reheat for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat in a pan over medium heat, adding a splash of vegetable broth if needed, until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Vegan Sticky Sesame Chickpeas.

Can I use dried chickpeas instead of canned?

You can use dried chickpeas; just remember they need soaking and longer cooking times. Use about 1 cup of dried chickpeas for this recipe.

What can I serve with Vegan Sticky Sesame Chickpeas?

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

How do I customize the flavor of Vegan Sticky Sesame Chickpeas?

Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas during cooking or adjust sweetness by adding more or less maple syrup.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use gluten-free tamari instead of soy sauce, this dish is entirely gluten-free.

How can I make this recipe spicier?

Add more red pepper flakes or include fresh chili peppers for an extra kick that complements the sesame flavor.

Final Thoughts

Vegan Sticky Sesame Chickpeas are not only quick and easy to prepare but also bursting with flavor and nutrition. This versatile dish allows room for customization based on your personal preferences. Try different vegetables or adjust the sweetness level; the options are endless!