When weeknight chaos threatens to derail dinner plans, I often find solace in quick recipes that feel gourmet without the hassle. That’s where my Vegan Sticky Sesame Chickpeas come into play—a delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors that captures the essence of comfort food. With just 15 minutes from start to finish, these chickpeas shimmer with a rich sesame sauce, making them the perfect answer to those busy evenings when you crave something satisfying yet healthy.
I’ll never forget the first time I whipped these up—a happy kitchen accident resulted in a dish that not only impressed my family but became a staple in our meal prep routine. Whether you’re looking for a rapid-fire dinner option or a versatile dish to savor throughout the week, this recipe ticks all the boxes. Let’s dive in and sprinkle some joy into your kitchen with these sticky goodies!
Why are Vegan Sticky Sesame Chickpeas a must-try?
Simplicity: The beauty of this recipe lies in its quick preparation—ready in just 15 minutes, making it perfect for those hectic weeknights.
Flavor Explosion: The rich sesame sauce, paired with chickpeas, brings a delightful medley of sweet and savory tastes that will have your taste buds dancing.
Versatile: Easily customizable, you can add veggies or substitute proteins to suit your preferences and make it your own.
Healthful: Packed with plant-based protein, these sticky chickpeas are not only delicious but also a nutritious choice.
Crowd-Pleaser: Serve over rice or quinoa, and you’ll impress even the pickiest eaters with this satisfying dish.
Vegan Sticky Sesame Chickpeas Ingredients
• Get ready to whip up a flavor-packed dish!
For the Chickpeas
- Chickpeas – The star of this recipe; canned chickpeas provide convenience and rich plant-based protein.
- Garlic – Use fresh for the best aroma and flavor; it brightens the dish beautifully.
For the Sauce
- Avocado Oil or Olive Oil – Ideal for sautéing; feel free to substitute any neutral oil like sunflower or canola.
- Toasted Sesame Oil – This essential ingredient provides a rich, nutty flavor that brings everything together.
- Tamari or Soy Sauce – Delivers umami and seasoning; opt for tamari if you need a gluten-free version.
- Maple Syrup – Adds just the right amount of sweetness; you can replace it with brown sugar or coconut sugar if desired.
- Rice Vinegar – A splash of acidity balancing the sweet and savory elements in the sauce.
- Fresh Grated Ginger – For a refreshing kick and spice; always use fresh for the best flavor.
- Vegetable Broth – Ensures the sauce reaches the right consistency; add more for a thinner sauce.
- Arrowroot Powder or Cornstarch – Acts as a thickening agent; both options work well interchangeably.
For Extra Flavor
- Chili Flakes or Hot Sauce – Optional, but if you like it spicy, this is a fantastic addition!
These Vegan Sticky Sesame Chickpeas not only deliver on flavor but also make for a quick, delightful meal. Enjoy experimenting with different ingredients to make this dish truly your own!
How to Make Vegan Sticky Sesame Chickpeas
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Rinse Chickpeas: Drain and rinse the canned chickpeas thoroughly under cold water, then set them aside to remove excess starch and preserve their texture.
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Sauté Garlic: Heat your chosen oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant and golden brown, about 1-2 minutes—be careful not to burn it for the best flavor!
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Mix Sauce Base: In a small bowl, combine arrowroot powder with vegetable broth until smooth. This mixture will help thicken your sauce, so set it aside for later.
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Combine Sauce Ingredients: Pour toasted sesame oil, tamari, maple syrup, rice vinegar, grated ginger, and the remaining vegetable broth into the skillet. Whisk together thoroughly to create a beautiful sauce.
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Add Thickener: Gently fold the arrowroot mixture into the pan, stirring well until everything is combined. Watch as the sauce starts to come together!
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Simmer Sauce: Keep the heat at medium/low and allow the sauce to bubble for about 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally until it thickens slightly.
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Coat Chickpeas: Toss the rinsed chickpeas into the pan, stirring them until they’re completely covered in that sticky, glossy sauce. Cook for another 5 minutes to let the flavors meld beautifully.
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Rest Before Serving: Once cooked, let the dish sit off the heat for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to deepen and the sauce to cling perfectly around those chickpeas.
Optional: Sprinkle with freshly toasted sesame seeds for a delightful crunch and added flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Vegan Sticky Sesame Chickpeas
Fridge: Store leftover Vegan Sticky Sesame Chickpeas in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This helps maintain their flavor and texture without drying out.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cooked chickpeas in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 2 months. Allow space for expansion as they freeze.
Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy the leftovers, reheat on a stovetop over low heat with a splash of vegetable broth or oil. This helps restore the sauce’s stickiness and flavor.
Customization: Don’t forget that you can easily modify this dish! If you’ve added vegetables, store them separately to prevent sogginess when reheating.
Expert Tips for Vegan Sticky Sesame Chickpeas
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Garlic Perfection: Avoid burning the garlic! Sauté it just until golden to keep the dish flavorful and prevent bitterness.
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Thickening Mastery: If your sauce thickens too much while cooking, simply add a splash of vegetable broth or a dash of oil to maintain its silky texture.
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Heat It Up: For those who enjoy a kick, sprinkle in some chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce during the sauce mixing stage for extra warmth.
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Experiment Freely: Feel free to add steamed or sautéed veggies like bell peppers or bok choy to enhance nutrition and color in your Vegan Sticky Sesame Chickpeas.
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Sauce Storage: When storing leftovers, remember that the sauce may thicken in the fridge. Reheat with a dash of vegetable broth to restore that delightful stickiness!
What to Serve with Vegan Sticky Sesame Chickpeas?
Pair your delicious chickpeas with these satisfying sides to create a complete meal you’ll love.
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Fluffy Jasmine Rice: Nutty and aromatic, it provides the perfect foundation to soak up the rich sesame sauce.
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Steamed Broccoli: The bright, crisp texture of broccoli adds freshness and balances the flavors beautifully.
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Quinoa Salad: A delightful medley of quinoa, cucumber, and herbs makes for a refreshing side that adds protein and nutrients.
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Sautéed Bok Choy: Its subtle crunch and mild flavor complement the sticky chickpeas perfectly, adding an extra layer of deliciousness.
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Crispy Tofu Bites: For more protein, serve alongside lightly breaded tofu, which offers a satisfying contrast in texture while soaking up flavors.
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Sesame Roasted Sweet Potatoes: The natural sweetness of the potatoes harmonizes with the dish’s flavors, adding a heartwarming touch.
Finish off your meal with a light palate cleanser, such as green tea or a fruity dessert, to round out the experience.
Vegan Sticky Sesame Chickpeas Variations
Feel free to get creative with these delightful chickpeas and customize them to suit your tastes!
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Add Veggies: Toss in steamed broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas for extra nutrients and vibrant colors. The crunch will elevate every bite!
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Tofu Alternative: Swap chickpeas for cubed tofu or tempeh for a satisfying twist. Simply sauté until golden for a delightful protein boost.
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Sweetness Switch: Experiment with using agave nectar or honey (if not strictly vegan) instead of maple syrup for different flavor depth.
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Nutty Touch: Stir in a tablespoon of peanut butter or almond butter into the sauce for a luscious, nutty flavor that complements the sesame beautifully.
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Heat It Up: Add chili flakes to the sauce for a spicy kick or garnish with fresh jalapeños for those who love heat. It’s a fun way to spice things up!
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Citrus Splash: A splash of lime or lemon juice at the end adds freshness and brightens the overall flavor. Just a squeeze can elevate the dish!
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Serve Over Quinoa: Instead of rice, serve these sticky chickpeas over quinoa for a protein-packed, nutty base that makes the dish even heartier.
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Crunchy Finish: Top with toasted sesame seeds or crushed peanuts for added texture and a nutty finish that brings everything together.
With these variations, your Vegan Sticky Sesame Chickpeas can become an exciting new dish every time you make them!
Make Ahead Options
These Vegan Sticky Sesame Chickpeas are a fantastic meal prep choice! You can prepare the sauce up to 48 hours in advance by mixing all the sauce ingredients (toasted sesame oil, tamari, maple syrup, rice vinegar, ginger, and vegetable broth) and storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The chickpeas can be rinsed and stored separately for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the sauce on medium-low heat, add the chickpeas, and simmer for about 5 minutes until everything is heated through and the sauce is sticky again. This method ensures you enjoy all the deliciousness with minimal effort on busy weeknights!
Vegan Sticky Sesame Chickpeas Recipe FAQs
How should I select ripe chickpeas?
When choosing chickpeas, opt for canned varieties unless you’re cooking dried chickpeas from scratch. Make sure the cans are sealed without any dents or bulges. If you’re using dried chickpeas, soak them overnight until they are tender before cooking.
How should I store leftover Vegan Sticky Sesame Chickpeas?
Store your Vegan Sticky Sesame Chickpeas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This maintains their flavor and prevents them from drying out. To reheat, add a splash of vegetable broth or oil on a stovetop to restore the delicious sticky sauce.
Can I freeze Vegan Sticky Sesame Chickpeas?
Absolutely! You can freeze the chickpeas for up to 2 months in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. Just ensure you leave some space in the container because they will expand slightly as they freeze. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently on the stove with a bit of broth or oil.
What can I do if my sauce is too thick during cooking?
If you find that your sauce becomes too thick while cooking, don’t worry! Just add a little vegetable broth or oil to the pan while stirring until you reach your desired consistency. This will keep your sauce silky and delightful.
Are there any allergen considerations for this recipe?
This recipe is naturally gluten-free when using tamari instead of soy sauce. However, you should always check labels, especially for packaged ingredients, as cross-contamination can occur. Additionally, if you have nut allergies, ensure your oil choices are safe; using avocado oil is a great alternative.
What can I add to the dish to customize it?
For a boost in nutrition or flavor, consider adding steamed or sautéed veggies like broccoli, bok choy, or bell peppers. You can also swap chickpeas for cubed tofu or tempeh for variety. Feel free to adjust the sweetness, too—experimenting with different sugars or omitting the maple syrup entirely can create a different flavor profile you might love!
Vegan Sticky Sesame Chickpeas for Quick Weeknight Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Rinse Chickpeas: Drain and rinse the canned chickpeas thoroughly under cold water, then set them aside to remove excess starch and preserve their texture.
- Sauté Garlic: Heat your chosen oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant and golden brown, about 1-2 minutes.
- Mix Sauce Base: In a small bowl, combine arrowroot powder with vegetable broth until smooth.
- Combine Sauce Ingredients: Pour toasted sesame oil, tamari, maple syrup, rice vinegar, grated ginger, and remaining vegetable broth into the skillet and whisk together.
- Add Thickener: Gently fold the arrowroot mixture into the pan, stirring well until everything is combined.
- Simmer Sauce: Keep the heat at medium/low and allow the sauce to bubble for about 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally until it thickens slightly.
- Coat Chickpeas: Toss the rinsed chickpeas into the pan, stirring until they’re completely covered in sauce. Cook for another 5 minutes.
- Rest Before Serving: Once cooked, let the dish sit off the heat for about 5 minutes to deepen flavors.