When the need for a quick yet satisfying dinner hits, I find myself reaching for my secret weapon: Vegan Sticky Sesame Chickpeas. This dish perfectly marries crisp, caramelized chickpeas with a syrupy sesame glaze, creating a medley of sweet, salty, and nutty flavors that are simply irresistible. The gentle sizzle of garlic mingling with onion fills the kitchen, while the aroma of toasted sesame oil wafts through the air, stirring up feelings of comfort and warmth.
What I love about this recipe is how it brings a sense of gourmet flair to my weeknight meals without the fuss. With just 25 minutes of hands-on preparation, I can enjoy a wholesome, plant-based dish that even my non-vegan friends rave about. At only 350 calories per serving, it’s a guilt-free treat that pairs perfectly with rice or quinoa and your favorite veggies. So, let’s dive into this delightful recipe and discover how easy it is to whip up a delicious, sticky-sweet dinner that will brighten your table.
Why Love Vegan Sticky Sesame Chickpeas?
Quick and Easy: In just 25 minutes, whip up a dish that feels gourmet!
Flavor Explosion: The blend of sweet, salty, and nutty makes every bite a celebration of taste.
Health-Conscious Delight: With only 350 calories per serving, this recipe is guilt-free yet satisfying.
Crowd-Pleaser: Even non-vegans won’t be able to resist these sticky treats!
Versatile Serving: Pair it with rice or quinoa and add seasonal veggies for a wholesome meal.
Explore the magic of flavor with this healthy recipe that will surely impress family and friends!
Vegan Sticky Sesame Chickpeas Ingredients
Dive into the goodness of these Vegan Sticky Sesame Chickpeas as we break down the must-have ingredients for this quick and flavorful dish.
For the Sauce
- Olive Oil – Keeps the chickpeas moist and aids in cooking; feel free to use a neutral oil.
- Soy Sauce or Tamari – Brings umami and saltiness; opt for tamari for a gluten-free option.
- Maple Syrup – Sweetens the sauce and enhances the flavor complexity; try agave nectar for a different taste.
- Rice Vinegar – Adds acidity to balance flavors; apple cider vinegar works as a suitable substitute.
- Toasted Sesame Oil – Infuses the dish with nutty richness, essential for that unique sesame flavor.
- Cornstarch – Mixed with water, it thickens the sauce into a glossy glaze.
For the Chickpeas
- Cooked Chickpeas – Provides protein and substance; use canned for quick preparation but remember to rinse well.
- Garlic – Adds aromatic richness; garlic powder can be used in a pinch.
- Onion – Diced finely, it contributes sweetness and depth to the flavor base.
For Garnishing
- Sesame Seeds – Sprinkle on top for added flavor and texture.
- Green Onions – Sliced for freshness; chives can be a delightful alternative.
- Salt and Pepper – Adjust according to taste for perfect seasoning.
For Serving
- Cooked Rice or Quinoa – A filling base that pairs beautifully with the sticky chickpeas.
- Steamed or Roasted Vegetables – Complements the dish and rounds out a wholesome meal.
Gather these ingredients and get ready to whip up a delightful dish that will leave everyone asking for more!
How to Make Vegan Sticky Sesame Chickpeas
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Heat the Oil: Begin by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely diced onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it turns translucent, enhancing the depth of flavor.
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Sauté Garlic: Next, toss in the minced garlic and sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant. This aromatic combination sets the stage for a delicious sauce!
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Mix the Sauce: In a bowl, whisk together the soy sauce (or tamari), maple syrup, rice vinegar, and toasted sesame oil. This sticky sesame sauce will be the star of your dish.
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Combine in Skillet: Pour the delicious sauce mixture into the skillet with the onions and garlic, stirring to combine everything beautifully. Allow the flavors to mingle for a couple of minutes.
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Thicken the Sauce: In a separate small bowl, dissolve the cornstarch in 2 tablespoons of water. Add this mixture to the skillet while stirring continuously until the sauce thickens and reaches a glossy consistency—this should take around 2 minutes.
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Add Chickpeas: Gently fold in the cooked chickpeas, tossing them to coat evenly in the sticky sauce. This will ensure every chickpea is bursting with flavor.
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Simmer Away: Allow the chickpeas to simmer for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. You want them heated through and coated in that glossy sauce, creating that mouthwatering finish.
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Garnish & Serve: Finally, sprinkle the sesame seeds and sliced green onions over the chickpeas, giving them a gentle stir. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to your liking.
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Plate Up: Serve your Vegan Sticky Sesame Chickpeas over a bed of rice or quinoa, accompanied by steamed or roasted vegetables for a complete and vibrant meal.
Optional: Drizzle with extra sesame oil for an added depth of flavor!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Vegan Sticky Sesame Chickpeas
• Marinate for Flavor: Let chickpeas sit in the sauce for about 30 minutes to deepen flavors before cooking.
• Watch the Garlic: Avoid over-browning garlic when sautéing, as it can turn bitter and affect the overall taste.
• Adjust Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of water gradually until you reach your desired viscosity.
• Spice it Up: For a kick, sprinkle in red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha to the sauce for extra heat.
• Storage Wisdom: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge; they stay delicious for up to 3 days.
What to Serve with Vegan Sticky Sesame Chickpeas?
Elevate your dining experience with delicious pairings that will beautifully complement the flavors of your chickpeas.
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Fluffy Quinoa: This nutty grain absorbs the sticky sesame sauce perfectly, adding a hearty and nutritious base to your meal.
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Steamed Broccoli: Bright green and tender, broccoli adds a refreshing crunch that contrasts beautifully with the rich sauce.
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Crispy Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Their caramelized edges provide a savory depth that enhances the umami flavors in the chickpeas.
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Cucumber Salad: A light salad with fresh cucumber slices drizzled with a tangy vinaigrette offers a delightful coolness alongside the chickpeas.
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Sesame Garlic Noodles: Tossed in a light sesame oil dressing, these noodles bring a delightful chewiness that harmonizes with the dish’s sauce.
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Mango Sorbet: Finish the meal on a sweet note with a scoop of mango sorbet, providing a refreshing contrast to the savory chickpeas.
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Herbal Iced Tea: The fragrant notes of herbal tea can cleanse the palate, making every bite of your Vegan Sticky Sesame Chickpeas feel fresh.
These pairings will not only enhance your meal but create a symphony of flavors you’ll love.
How to Store and Freeze Vegan Sticky Sesame Chickpeas
Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days; this keeps the flavors intact and ready for quick meals.
Freezer: To freeze, divide into portions and place in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: Warm in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through. Adding a splash of water can help restore sauce consistency.
Room Temperature: It’s best to enjoy these Vegan Sticky Sesame Chickpeas warm, as leaving them out for extended periods can affect their taste and texture.
Make Ahead Options
These Vegan Sticky Sesame Chickpeas are perfect for meal prep, making your busy weeknights a breeze! You can prepare the sticky sesame sauce and marinate the chickpeas up to 24 hours in advance. Simply mix the soy sauce, maple syrup, rice vinegar, and sesame oil in a bowl, then combine with drained chickpeas. Store the mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep the flavors fresh. When you’re ready to serve, sauté the onion and garlic, add the pre-marinated chickpeas, and follow the remaining cooking steps. This way, you’ll have a quick, delicious meal that tastes just as vibrant and flavorful as if you made it from scratch!
Vegan Sticky Sesame Chickpeas Variations
Feel free to get creative with your dish using these delicious alternatives!
- Oil Swap: Use avocado oil for a different flavor while keeping the dish light and healthy.
- Grain Options: Switch up the base and serve with farro or bulgur instead of rice or quinoa for a nutritious twist.
- Nutty Additions: Enhance crunch and taste by tossing in toasted walnuts or almonds for a delightful texture.
- Veggie Boost: Add seasonal veggies like bell peppers or broccoli for extra color and nutrients in your chickpea dish.
- Heat It Up: Spice things up by adding red pepper flakes or a splash of sriracha to the sauce for an exciting kick.
- Sweet Alternatives: Swap maple syrup with agave nectar or a splash of coconut nectar for a unique sweetness.
- Asian Flair: Stir in a splash of rice wine or add sliced bok choy for an authentic Asian-inspired flavor.
- Herb Infusion: Sprinkle in fresh herbs such as cilantro or basil towards the end for a burst of fresh flavor.
Vegan Sticky Sesame Chickpeas Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe chickpeas?
Absolutely! When selecting chickpeas, whether canned or dried, look for firmness and a smooth texture. If you’re using dried chickpeas, soak them overnight and cook until tender. For canned, ensure they’re free from dark spots and have a clean seal. Rinsing canned chickpeas is vital to remove excess sodium.
How should I store leftover Vegan Sticky Sesame Chickpeas?
Very easy! Store your Vegan Sticky Sesame Chickpeas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to cool them completely before sealing. When ready to enjoy, simply reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.
Can I freeze Vegan Sticky Sesame Chickpeas?
Absolutely! To freeze, portion the chickpeas into freezer-safe bags or containers. They can last up to 2 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of water if necessary to restore consistency.
What can I do if the sauce is too thick?
No worries! If your sauce becomes too thick, just add a splash of water or vegetable broth gradually while stirring over low heat. This should bring it back to that lovely sticky consistency. Additionally, if you prefer more sauce, feel free to increase the soy sauce and maple syrup amounts next time.
Are Vegan Sticky Sesame Chickpeas pet-friendly?
Very important! If you have pets, especially cats and dogs, it’s best not to share these chickpeas with them. Ingredients like garlic and onion can be harmful to pets. Always double-check your ingredients for any potential allergens or issues before sharing human food with your furry friends.
Can I adjust the spice level in this recipe?
Absolutely! If you’re looking to add some heat, sprinkle in red pepper flakes or add sriracha to the sauce. You can adjust it to your taste preference, making this dish as spicy or mild as you like!
Savory Vegan Sticky Sesame Chickpeas in Under 30 Minutes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely diced onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until translucent.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce (or tamari), maple syrup, rice vinegar, and toasted sesame oil.
- Pour the sauce mixture into the skillet with onions and garlic, stirring to combine.
- Dissolve cornstarch in 2 tablespoons of water in a small bowl, then add to the skillet while stirring until sauce thickens.
- Fold in the cooked chickpeas, tossing to coat in the sauce.
- Let chickpeas simmer for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Sprinkle sesame seeds and sliced green onions over the chickpeas, stirring gently. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
- Serve over a bed of rice or quinoa, with steamed or roasted vegetables.