After a long week of work, few things bring me as much joy as whipping up a simple, yet flavorful meal in my kitchen. Enter my Vegan Sticky Sesame Chickpeas – a delightful dish that transforms pantry staples into something truly special. The sweet and savory aroma of the sticky sauce simmering in the skillet fills the air, invoking warmth and comfort with each whiff.
I discovered this gem during one of those hectic weekday evenings when takeout felt like the only option. With just a handful of ingredients—many of which I always have on hand—I created a dreamy stir-fry that not only satisfied my cravings but also left me feeling energized and nourished. Trust me, this dish is about to become your go-to crowd-pleaser.
Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply wish to elevate your weeknight dinners from mundane to marvelous, these chickpeas are here to rescue your taste buds. Ready to indulge in a meal that’s bursting with flavor and built for easy preparation? Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love These Vegan Sticky Sesame Chickpeas?
Simplicity at its finest: This recipe requires minimal prep and cooking time, making it perfect for weeknight meals.
Sweet and Savory blend: The harmony of maple syrup and soy sauce delivers a taste explosion you won’t forget!
Protein-Packed: Chickpeas provide a hearty source of plant-based protein, ensuring you stay full longer.
Versatile: Serve it over rice, quinoa, or tossed with roasted veggies for a delightful side.
Crowd-Pleasing: Whether you’re cooking for family or entertaining guests, these delicious sticky chickpeas will surely impress!
Try pairing them with steamed or roasted vegetables for a complete meal that’s both healthy and satisfying.
Vegan Sticky Sesame Chickpeas Ingredients
• Get ready to savor the flavor with these delightful ingredients!
For the Sauce
- Olive oil – a splash of this adds richness and helps sauté aromatics.
- Small onion – finely diced for a sweet, fragrant base that enhances flavor.
- Garlic – minced to infuse the dish with its irresistible aroma.
- Soy sauce or tamari – the main player in giving a salty kick, opt for tamari for a gluten-free version.
- Maple syrup – balances the saltiness of soy sauce, creating that sweet and savory magic.
- Rice vinegar – adds a zesty touch that brightens up the whole dish.
- Toasted sesame oil – gives that quintessential nutty flavor to make this vegan sticky sesame chickpeas shine!
- Cornstarch mixed with water – acts as a thickening agent to achieve a luscious sauce.
For the Chickpeas
- Cooked chickpeas – provides a hearty source of protein; canned can save time, just drain and rinse!
For Garnishing
- Sesame seeds – sprinkle these for an extra crunch and nutty flavor.
- Green onions – sliced to add a refreshing pop of color and taste.
- Salt and pepper – adjust to your preference for that perfect seasoning.
For Serving
- Cooked rice or quinoa – a delightful base that soaks up all the delicious sauce.
- Steamed or roasted vegetables – add your favorite greens to create a complete meal packed with nutrients.
With these simple ingredients, you’ll be on your way to creating the most scrumptious Vegan Sticky Sesame Chickpeas that promise to turn dinner into a memorable occasion!
How to Make Vegan Sticky Sesame Chickpeas
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Heat oil: Warm up the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely diced onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent and fragrant.
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Sauté garlic: Toss in the minced garlic and keep sautéing for another 1-2 minutes until it gives off a delightful aroma.
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Mix sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, maple syrup, rice vinegar, and toasted sesame oil until well combined and smooth.
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Combine flavors: Pour the fabulous sauce mixture into the skillet with the onions and garlic, stirring everything together to ensure every bit is coated in flavor.
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Thicken sauce: Dissolve the cornstarch in the water and add it into the skillet. Stir continuously until you see the sauce start to thicken and bubble—this takes about 2-3 minutes.
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Add chickpeas: Gently fold in the cooked chickpeas, stirring to ensure they are evenly coated with that sticky sesame sauce.
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Simmer together: Allow the chickpeas to simmer in the sauce for about 5-7 minutes or until they are heated through and the sauce thickens to your desired consistency.
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Garnish: Sprinkle the sesame seeds and sliced green onions over the chickpeas. Give it a gentle stir to combine, then adjust with a pinch of salt and pepper according to your taste.
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Serve hot: Dish out the sticky sesame chickpeas over a fluffy bed of cooked rice or quinoa, adding steamed or roasted vegetables alongside for a colorful, nutritious meal.
Optional: Drizzle with extra toasted sesame oil for added flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Vegan Sticky Sesame Chickpeas?
Elevate your culinary experience with delightful sides that will make your meal even more satisfying and wholesome.
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Fluffy Rice: A bed of jasmine or brown rice soaks up the sticky sauce perfectly, creating a comforting and hearty base.
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Roasted Broccoli: Crispy, caramelized edges add a smoky flavor that contrasts beautifully with the sweet chickpeas.
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Quinoa Salad: Nutty quinoa tossed with your favorite veggies brings a fresh, protein-packed element that complements the dish.
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Crispy Spring Rolls: Serve these alongside for a delightful crunch with dipping sauce, offering a fun and tasty contrast.
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Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup adds umami depth, enhancing the savory notes of the chickpeas without overpowering them.
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Sesame Cucumber Salad: A refreshing blend of cucumbers and sesame oil provides a light, crispy contrast to the rich chickpeas.
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Chilled Green Tea: A soothing, slightly bitter beverage that enhances the meal’s sweetness while keeping you refreshed.
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Chocolate Avocado Mousse: End your meal on a sweet note with a rich, creamy dessert that balances the savory flavors beautifully.
Vegan Sticky Sesame Chickpeas Variations
Feel free to play with this recipe and add your own unique spin for an even more delightful experience!
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Spicy Kick: Add a teaspoon of sriracha or red pepper flakes for a warming heat that tantalizes the taste buds. A little spice goes a long way in enhancing the overall flavor!
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Nutty Flavor: Incorporate a tablespoon of peanut butter or almond butter into the sauce mixture for a rich, nutty depth that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness.
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Coconut Oil: Substitute olive oil with coconut oil for a tropical twist that lends a subtle sweetness and enhances the aroma. It’s perfect for those seeking a brighter flavor profile.
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Citrus Zing: Squeeze in the juice of half a lime or lemon before serving for a zesty freshness that brightens every bite. This tangy addition will awaken your palate!
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Vegetable Medley: Add chopped bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas to the skillet during the last few simmering minutes for added nutrition and a colorful crunch that complements the chickpeas.
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Herbaceous Burst: Toss in fresh herbs like cilantro or basil just before serving. They’ll add a burst of freshness that elevates the entire dish and makes it feel vibrant.
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Sweetness Level: Adjust the maple syrup quantity based on your sweetness preference. For a less sweet version, reduce it to 2 tablespoons—just as delightful!
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Creamy Base: Serve the chickpeas over a creamy cauliflower mash instead of rice or quinoa for a delicious twist on the classic! It’s a great low-carb alternative that still satisfies.
Expert Tips for Vegan Sticky Sesame Chickpeas
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Perfectly Thick Sauce: Make sure to stir the cornstarch mixture continuously when adding it to the skillet; this will prevent lumps and create that desired sticky texture.
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Season to Taste: Remember, the saltiness of soy sauce can vary. Taste the sauce before adding extra salt, ensuring a balanced flavor in the Vegan Sticky Sesame Chickpeas.
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Chickpea Choice: If using canned chickpeas, always drain and rinse them to get rid of excess sodium. Home-cooked chickpeas offer a fresher taste!
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Customize Veggies: Feel free to mix in your favorite veggies during the last few minutes of simmering for added nutrition and flavor, really complementing the chickpeas.
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Storage Tips: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to preserve the sauce’s stickiness.
Make Ahead Options
These Vegan Sticky Sesame Chickpeas are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can sauté the onions and garlic up to 24 hours in advance and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, mix the sauce ingredients ahead of time and refrigerate for convenience. Just before serving, combine the sautéed aromatics with canned chickpeas (which can be rinsed and stored for up to 3 days) and the sauce in a skillet. Heat everything together for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through and thickened. This way, you’ll enjoy a delicious, restaurant-quality dish with minimal effort on busy weeknights!
Storage Tips for Vegan Sticky Sesame Chickpeas
Fridge: Store any leftover vegan sticky sesame chickpeas in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This keeps them fresh and flavorful.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the chickpeas in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight or heat directly from the freezer.
Reheating: Reheat the chickpeas in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water if needed to rehydrate the sauce. This will restore that delicious stickiness!
Serving Tip: Pair your reheated chickpeas with freshly cooked rice or quinoa, and some vibrant steamed or roasted vegetables to elevate your meal!
Vegan Sticky Sesame Chickpeas Recipe FAQs
What type of chickpeas should I use for this recipe?
Absolutely! You can use either cooked chickpeas or canned ones for ultimate convenience. If using canned, make sure to drain and rinse them well to remove excess sodium, giving you a fresher flavor.
How should I store leftover Vegan Sticky Sesame Chickpeas?
To keep your leftovers fresh, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This ensures they retain their delicious flavor. Just reheat gently to enjoy again!
Can I freeze Vegan Sticky Sesame Chickpeas?
Sure can! For longer storage, place your chickpeas in a freezer-safe container and freeze them for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw in the fridge overnight or heat directly from the freezer.
What are some common troubleshooting tips for this dish?
If you find your sauce is too thin, try mixing a bit more cornstarch with water and adding it to the skillet while stirring continuously until thickened. Conversely, if it’s too thick, add a splash of water or vegetable broth to reach your desired consistency.
Are there any dietary considerations for these chickpeas?
Very! This dish is completely vegan and can be made gluten-free by using tamari instead of soy sauce. Be sure to check for allergies if serving guests, especially regarding sesame seeds, which can be a common allergen.
How can I enhance the flavors in Vegan Sticky Sesame Chickpeas?
I often like to add a handful of colorful veggies like bell peppers or broccoli during the last few minutes of simmering. This not only adds nutrition but also enhances the taste and presentation, making the dish truly vibrant!
Savory Vegan Sticky Sesame Chickpeas for a Quick Dinner Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Warm up the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely diced onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent and fragrant.
- Toss in the minced garlic and keep sautéing for another 1-2 minutes until it gives off a delightful aroma.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, maple syrup, rice vinegar, and toasted sesame oil until well combined and smooth.
- Pour the sauce mixture into the skillet with the onions and garlic, stirring everything together to coat.
- Dissolve the cornstarch in the water and add it into the skillet. Stir continuously until the sauce thickens and bubbles, about 2-3 minutes.
- Gently fold in the cooked chickpeas, ensuring they are evenly coated with the sticky sesame sauce.
- Allow the chickpeas to simmer in the sauce for about 5-7 minutes or until heated through and the sauce thickens to desired consistency.
- Sprinkle sesame seeds and sliced green onions over the chickpeas. Stir gently, then adjust with a pinch of salt and pepper to taste.
- Dish out the sticky sesame chickpeas over cooked rice or quinoa, adding steamed or roasted vegetables for a colorful meal.