Vegan Sticky Sesame Chickpeas

Easy, flavorful, and packed with plant protein, Vegan Sticky Sesame Chickpeas are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner, meal prep option, or a dish to impress guests, this recipe stands out. Ready in just 15 minutes, these chickpeas bring together the rich flavors of sesame and garlic, making them a delightful addition to your table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This recipe takes only 15 minutes from start to finish, making it great for busy nights.
• Flavorful Dish: The combination of garlic, maple syrup, and toasted sesame oil creates a rich and satisfying flavor.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy these chickpeas on their own or pair them with rice, quinoa, or steamed vegetables.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make a big batch and store them in the fridge for easy meals throughout the week.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with protein and fiber, this dish is not only delicious but also healthy.

Tools and Preparation

To make these Vegan Sticky Sesame Chickpeas, having the right tools will make your cooking experience smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Sauté pan
• Garlic press
• Measuring cups
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Sauté pan: A good sauté pan allows even heat distribution for perfectly cooked ingredients.
• Garlic press: Using a garlic press ensures finely minced garlic that blends seamlessly into the sauce.
• Measuring cups: Accurate measurements are key to achieving the right balance of flavors in your dish.

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 thoroughly. Set them aside while you prepare the sauce.

Step 2: Sauté Garlic

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

Step 3: Mix Tapioca Starch

In a small bowl, combine tapioca starch with half of the vegetable broth. Mix until smooth without any clumps. Set aside.

Step 4: Combine Sauce Ingredients

Add low sodium tamari or soy sauce, toasted sesame oil, maple syrup, rice vinegar, ground ginger, and the remaining vegetable broth to the sauté pan with garlic. Whisk everything together until well combined.

Step 5: Thicken the Sauce

Stir in the tapioca mixture into the sauce. When bubbles begin to form, add in the drained chickpeas and stir until they are well coated.

Step 6: Cook Until Sticky

Reduce heat to low and cook while stirring occasionally until the sauce becomes thick and sticky—about 5 minutes.

Step 7: Allow Flavors to Meld

Remove from heat and let sit for a few minutes so that chickpeas can absorb all of those wonderful flavors.

Step 8: Serve

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

How to Serve Vegan Sticky Sesame Chickpeas

Vegan Sticky Sesame Chickpeas are versatile and can be paired with various sides for a complete meal. Here are some delicious ways to serve them.

With Steamed Broccoli

• Steamed broccoli adds a vibrant color and nutritional boost, providing fiber and vitamins that complement the chickpeas.

Over Quinoa

• Serving these chickpeas over quinoa makes for a protein-packed meal. Quinoa’s nutty flavor pairs well with the sticky sauce.

On a Bed of Rice

• White or brown rice serves as a neutral base, soaking up the savory flavors of the sauce, making every bite delightful.

In a Wrap

• Roll the chickpeas in a whole-grain wrap with fresh veggies for a quick lunch option that’s both filling and healthy.

How to Perfect Vegan Sticky Sesame Chickpeas

To ensure your Vegan Sticky Sesame Chickpeas turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use fresh garlic – Freshly minced garlic enhances the flavor significantly compared to pre-minced options.
• Adjust sweetness – Feel free to modify the maple syrup amount based on your sweetness preference; more syrup will create a sweeter dish.
• Monitor heat – Cooking on low heat allows the sauce to thicken without burning, ensuring you get that sticky consistency.
• Let it sit – Allowing the dish to rest after cooking helps the chickpeas absorb more flavors, enhancing taste.
• Experiment with spices – Add red pepper flakes for extra heat or include sesame seeds for added crunch and flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Vegan Sticky Sesame Chickpeas

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

1. Garlic Green Beans – Sautéed green beans with garlic add a crunchy texture and vibrant color to your plate.
2. Coconut Rice – This creamy rice dish introduces a hint of sweetness, balancing out the savory chickpeas beautifully.
3. Asian Slaw – A fresh slaw made with cabbage and carrots provides a refreshing crunch that contrasts nicely with sticky chickpeas.
4. Roasted Sweet Potatoes – Their natural sweetness complements the savory elements of the dish while adding fiber and nutrients.
5. Cucumber Salad – A light cucumber salad with sesame dressing offers coolness and acidity, brightening up your meal.
6. Edamame – Steamed edamame pods provide protein and healthy fats, making them an excellent side choice for this dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Vegan Sticky Sesame Chickpeas, there are a few common mistakes that can affect the flavor and texture. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Ignoring the Garlic: Not mincing the garlic finely can lead to large, overpowering pieces in your dish. Use a garlic press for a smooth flavor.
• Overcooking the Sauce: Cooking the sauce too long can make it too thick and sticky. Keep an eye on it and remove from heat once it reaches your desired consistency.
• Skipping the Rinse: Failing to rinse the chickpeas can result in excess sodium and a less clean taste. Always drain and rinse canned chickpeas before cooking.
• Not Measuring Ingredients Correctly: Eyeballing ingredients like tamari or maple syrup can throw off the balance of flavors. Use precise measurements for best results.
• Neglecting Customization: Sticking rigidly to the recipe may limit your experience. Feel free to add vegetables or spices based on your preferences.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Vegan Sticky Sesame Chickpeas

• Freeze in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months.
• Portion into smaller servings for easy thawing.

Reheating Vegan Sticky Sesame Chickpeas

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), spread on a baking sheet, and heat for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a pan over medium-low heat, stirring until warm through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Vegan Sticky Sesame Chickpeas so special?

Vegan Sticky Sesame Chickpeas are not only quick to prepare but also packed with flavor and plant protein. They make for a satisfying meal any night of the week.

Can I use fresh chickpeas instead of canned?

Yes, you can cook dried chickpeas and use them instead. Just remember that dried chickpeas require soaking and longer cooking times.

How can I customize Vegan Sticky Sesame Chickpeas?

Feel free to add veggies like bell peppers or broccoli during cooking. You can also adjust spice levels by adding more red pepper flakes if you prefer extra heat.

What should I serve with Vegan Sticky Sesame Chickpeas?

These chickpeas pair perfectly with quinoa, rice, or steamed vegetables. They also work well as a filling in wraps or salads.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Just use gluten-free tamari instead of soy sauce to keep it gluten-free while enjoying all its delicious flavors.

Final Thoughts

This Vegan Sticky Sesame Chickpeas recipe is quick, easy, and packed with flavor. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep for lunches. Feel free to customize it with your favorite veggies or spices to match your taste preferences!