Vegan Sticky Sesame Chickpeas
Highlighted under: Healthy & Light
Elevate your plant-based meals with this delicious Vegan Sticky Sesame Chickpeas recipe. Perfectly cooked chickpeas are coated in a sweet and savory sesame sauce, offering a delightful combination of flavors and textures. This dish is quick to prepare and makes for an excellent protein-packed addition to salads, grain bowls, or as a tasty snack on its own.
This tasty recipe features chickpeas that are both satisfying and nutritious. Tossed in a sticky sesame sauce, they are not only delicious but also versatile.
A Nutritious Protein Boost
Chickpeas, the star ingredient of this dish, are a fantastic source of plant-based protein. With around 15 grams of protein per cup, they are not only filling but also perfect for those seeking to increase their protein intake without the use of animal products. Incorporating chickpeas into your diet can help maintain muscle mass, support metabolism, and provide essential nutrients needed for overall health. Whether you're a vegan, vegetarian, or simply looking to eat healthier, using chickpeas in your meals can significantly contribute to your nutritional needs.
In addition to their protein content, chickpeas are rich in dietary fiber, promoting healthy digestion and helping manage blood sugar levels. This makes them an excellent choice for anyone looking to maintain steady energy throughout the day without the spikes and crashes that often come from more processed carbohydrates. By including this recipe in your rotation, you'll not only savor a delicious dish but also harness the numerous health benefits that come from chickpeas.
Versatile and Delicious
One of the most delightful aspects of Vegan Sticky Sesame Chickpeas is their versatility. This dish can stand alone as a satisfying snack or be used as a flavorful topping for a variety of meals. Toss them into salads to add texture and protein, mix them into grain bowls with a base of quinoa or brown rice, or even use them as a filling for wraps. The sweet and savory sesame sauce complements numerous ingredients, making these chickpeas an exciting and adaptable addition to any meal plan.
Additionally, the preparation of this dish is quick and simple, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or meal-prepping. The recipe can be easily multiplied to serve a larger group, or you can whip up a batch for yourself and store leftovers for later. The sticky sauce clings beautifully to the chickpeas, ensuring every bite is bursting with flavor. No matter how you choose to enjoy them, these chickpeas are bound to impress your taste buds.
Easy Steps to Perfection
The beauty of this Vegan Sticky Sesame Chickpeas recipe lies in its straightforward steps. By simply combining the sauce ingredients in a bowl and cooking the chickpeas until crispy, you can have a delicious meal ready in no time. This ease of preparation makes it a fantastic recipe for beginners or anyone looking to minimize time spent in the kitchen while still enjoying a homemade dish.
Moreover, adjusting the flavors in this recipe is a breeze. If you prefer a spicier kick, you can easily incorporate some chili flakes or hot sauce into the mix. For those who like a more pronounced sesame flavor, consider adding a splash of toasted sesame oil. This flexibility allows you to customize the dish according to your taste preferences, ensuring it’s always a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chickpeas
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 4 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
Enjoy your delicious sticky sesame chickpeas!
Instructions
Instructions
Prepare the Sauce
In a small bowl, mix together soy sauce, maple syrup, rice vinegar, and cornstarch until well combined.
Cook the Chickpeas
In a skillet over medium heat, heat sesame oil. Add the chickpeas and cook until slightly crispy.
Add Sauce
Pour the sauce over the chickpeas and stir well to coat. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens.
Garnish
Sprinkle with sesame seeds before serving.
Serve warm, either on its own or as a part of a larger meal.
Serving Suggestions
Vegan Sticky Sesame Chickpeas can be served in a multitude of ways. For a light lunch, serve them over a bed of mixed greens with fresh vegetables and a sprinkle of almonds for crunch. If you're in the mood for something heartier, pair them with whole grains like brown rice, farro, or couscous, and add a drizzle of tahini dressing to create a balanced meal that’s both nutritious and satisfying.
These chickpeas also make a fantastic filling for wraps or sandwiches. Simply add them to your favorite flatbread with some sliced avocado, crunchy veggies, and a touch of hummus for a delicious and fulfilling meal option that can be enjoyed on the go. The versatility of this dish means you can get creative and switch up your meal prep each week.
Storage Tips
If you find yourself with leftovers, no need to worry! Vegan Sticky Sesame Chickpeas store well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, you can pan-fry them briefly to regain their crispy texture or microwave them for convenience. Just be careful not to overheat, as this can lead to a loss of the dish's signature stickiness.
For longer-term storage, consider freezing your chickpeas and sauce in a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be stored for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy them, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat before serving. This makes it an excellent recipe for batch cooking, ensuring you always have a delicious and nutritious meal on hand.
Nutritional Benefits
The combination of chickpeas and the ingredients used in this recipe provides a wealth of nutritional benefits. Chickpeas are a significant source of vitamins and minerals, including iron, magnesium, and B vitamins, which play crucial roles in energy production and overall health. Furthermore, the soy sauce used in the recipe is low in calories and contributes to its umami flavor without the need for excessive seasoning.
Maple syrup, while providing sweetness, also contains antioxidants and beneficial nutrients like manganese and zinc. This dish balances deliciousness with health benefits, making it an excellent option for any meal. Enjoying Vegan Sticky Sesame Chickpeas not only satisfies your taste buds but also supports your health goals.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use canned chickpeas?
Yes, canned chickpeas work perfectly for this recipe.
→ Is this recipe gluten-free?
Use gluten-free soy sauce to make this recipe gluten-free.
Vegan Sticky Sesame Chickpeas
Elevate your plant-based meals with this delicious Vegan Sticky Sesame Chickpeas recipe. Perfectly cooked chickpeas are coated in a sweet and savory sesame sauce, offering a delightful combination of flavors and textures. This dish is quick to prepare and makes for an excellent protein-packed addition to salads, grain bowls, or as a tasty snack on its own.
Created by: Emma
Recipe Type: Healthy & Light
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chickpeas
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 4 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
How-To Steps
In a small bowl, mix together soy sauce, maple syrup, rice vinegar, and cornstarch until well combined.
In a skillet over medium heat, heat sesame oil. Add the chickpeas and cook until slightly crispy.
Pour the sauce over the chickpeas and stir well to coat. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens.
Sprinkle with sesame seeds before serving.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Protein: 15g
- Fat: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 45g