Vegan Sticky Sesame Chickpeas with Sweet and Savory Glaze

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Why You’ll Love This Vegan Sticky Sesame Chickpeas

Imagine a meal that’s quick to make, full of flavor, and good for you, all without any fuss. This vegan sticky sesame chickpeas recipe fits right into busy lives, whether you’re a home cook looking for easy dinners or a parent juggling schedules. Packed with nutrients from chickpeas, it’s a go-to for anyone wanting simple, plant-based options that taste amazing.

One reason you’ll enjoy this dish is its ease of preparation. This vegan sticky sesame chickpeas recipe is designed for simplicity and speed, allowing you to whip up a nutritious meal in under 30 minutes with minimal ingredients and easy steps. Beyond that, the health benefits stand out as chickpeas are a great source of plant-based protein, aiding digestion and supporting heart health through ingredients like sesame oil.

The recipe also offers plenty of versatility. Adaptable to various dietary needs, this recipe is naturally vegan, and can be customized to be gluten-free or low-calorie by substituting sauces and oils, ensuring it fits well into diverse meal plans. Plus, the distinctive flavor from the sticky, sweet, and savory glaze makes every bite memorable, turning everyday ingredients into something special. If you’re exploring other simple recipes, check out our easy peach cobbler for a sweet treat that pairs well with savory meals like this one.

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Essential Ingredients for Vegan Sticky Sesame Chickpeas

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating a delicious batch of vegan sticky sesame chickpeas. This recipe uses simple, pantry-friendly items that come together to make a flavorful, sticky sauce. Below is a complete list of everything you’ll need, with precise measurements to ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time.

  • 2 cans (15 ounces each) of chickpeas
  • 3 to 4 large cloves of garlic
  • 1 tablespoon of avocado or olive oil
  • 1.5 tablespoons of sesame oil
  • 1/3 cup of low sodium tamari or soy sauce
  • 3 tablespoons of maple syrup
  • 2 teaspoons of rice vinegar
  • 1/2 teaspoon of ginger
  • 1 tablespoon of tapioca starch (or arrowroot/corn starch as a substitute)
  • 1/4 cup of low sodium vegetable broth or water, divided
  • Optionally, 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes for spice

These ingredients form the base of a dish that’s naturally gluten-free and packed with plant-based protein. For more on how chickpeas benefit your health, visit health benefits of chickpeas. Remember, using low sodium options helps control saltiness while keeping the flavors balanced.

How to Prepare the Perfect Vegan Sticky Sesame Chickpeas: Step-by-Step Guide

Making vegan sticky sesame chickpeas is straightforward and fun, perfect for beginners or anyone short on time. Start by prepping your ingredients to keep things moving smoothly in the kitchen. This recipe comes together in about 20 minutes, giving you a tasty meal without much effort.

First, drain and rinse the chickpeas to remove any excess liquid. Then, mince the garlic and sauté it in 1 tablespoon of avocado or olive oil over medium heat until it’s fragrant and slightly golden, which takes about 1-2 minutes. In a small bowl, mix the 1 tablespoon of tapioca starch with half of the 1/4 cup vegetable broth until smooth, then set it aside for later.

Next, add 1/3 cup of low sodium tamari or soy sauce, 1.5 tablespoons of sesame oil, 3 tablespoons of maple syrup, 2 teaspoons of rice vinegar, 1/2 teaspoon of ginger, and the remaining vegetable broth to the pan. Whisk everything together until well combined. Stir in the tapioca starch mixture and cook until bubbles form, thickening the sauce nicely.

Finally, add the drained chickpeas to the pan and stir to coat them evenly with the sauce. Cook on low heat for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce becomes thick and sticky. Remove from heat and let it sit for 5 minutes to let the flavors blend. You can serve this with steamed broccoli, quinoa, rice, or your favorite sides for a complete meal.

Nutritional Breakdown

To help you see the value in this recipe, here’s a quick table of nutritional info per serving. It’s a balanced option with good protein and fiber.

NutrientAmount per Serving
Calories321 kcal
Carbohydrates49 grams
Protein11.5 grams
Fat9.6 grams
Sodium800 mg
Fiber10.5 grams
Sugar9 grams
Vegan Sticky Sesame Chickpeas With Sweet And Savory Glaze 9

Dietary Substitutions to Customize Your Vegan Sticky Sesame Chickpeas

Everyone’s tastes and needs are different, so tweaking this recipe is easy and fun. Whether you’re avoiding certain ingredients or just want to mix things up, simple swaps keep the dish delicious. This makes it ideal for busy parents, students, or anyone watching their diet.

For protein and main component alternatives, substitute chickpeas with edamame, tofu cubes, or cooked lentils to vary protein sources while keeping the plant-based integrity. Use roasted cauliflower florets or crispy tempeh for different textures and flavors. In terms of vegetable, sauce, and seasoning modifications, swap garlic with shallots or chives if sensitive to pungent flavors.

Replace soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos to keep it gluten-free. Add chili flakes or smoked paprika for a spicier or smoky twist. Mix in seasonal vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas to tailor the dish for freshness and variety. Chickpeas provide a naturally gluten-free, plant-based protein option, as mentioned in the tips.

Mastering Vegan Sticky Sesame Chickpeas: Advanced Tips and Variations

Once you’re comfortable with the basics, try some pro tips to take your vegan sticky sesame chickpeas to the next level. Using the right pan, like a non-stick skillet, helps get that perfect crisp on the chickpeas. Little changes in ingredients can make a big difference in flavor.

Pro cooking techniques include using a high-quality non-stick skillet or cast iron pan to achieve a perfect crisp on chickpeas before adding sauce. Toast sesame seeds lightly to enhance their nutty aroma. For flavor variations, experiment with adding miso paste for depth, swap maple syrup for agave or date syrup for different sweetness notes, or integrate fresh herbs like cilantro or basil for brightness.

Presentation tips involve serving on a bed of steamed rice or quinoa, garnish with finely sliced scallions and toasted sesame seeds, and drizzle extra sesame oil for a glossy finish. Make-ahead options mean you can prepare the sauce in advance and store separately; reheat chickpeas and combine them just before serving to retain texture and flavor. The sticky sauce is also versatile and works well with tofu, tempeh, salmon, noodles, or in Buddha bowls. For more ideas on using sesame oil, check out benefits of sesame oil.

How to Store Vegan Sticky Sesame Chickpeas: Best Practices

Storing leftovers keeps this dish fresh and ready for another day, which is great for working professionals or students. Proper storage helps maintain that sticky texture and flavor. Follow these steps to enjoy it later without losing quality.

Refrigeration involves storing leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Keep chickpeas and sauce together for convenience. For freezing, portion the dish into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating means warming gently in a skillet over low heat or microwave with a splash of water to restore moisture without drying out the sticky sauce. Meal prep considerations suggest preparing larger batches and portioning into meals for grab-and-go lunches or dinners, ensuring even heating by separating into single servings. Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated with a little vegetable broth or oil to restore sauciness, as per the tips.

Vegan Sticky Sesame Chickpeas
Vegan Sticky Sesame Chickpeas With Sweet And Savory Glaze 10

FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About Vegan Sticky Sesame Chickpeas

How do you make vegan sticky sesame chickpeas quickly at home?

This vegan sticky sesame chickpeas recipe is simple and fast, taking about 15 minutes to prepare. It uses canned chickpeas, a basic sesame sauce made from soy sauce or tamari, a sweetener like maple syrup, garlic, and sesame oil. Simply sauté the chickpeas until crispy, then toss them in the sauce until sticky and well-coated. This quick method allows you to enjoy a flavorful plant-based meal with minimal prep time and common pantry ingredients.

Are chickpeas safe for a gluten-free diet?

Yes, chickpeas are naturally gluten-free and safe for those avoiding gluten. To maintain a gluten-free dish when making sticky sesame chickpeas, substitute traditional soy sauce with tamari, which is usually gluten-free. Always check the labels of packaged ingredients like soy sauce or any added seasoning to avoid hidden gluten.

What sweeteners work best to make the sesame sauce sticky and flavorful?

Maple syrup is a popular choice for creating a glossy, sticky sesame sauce in vegan recipes. You can also use brown sugar or coconut sugar for a similar effect. These sweeteners help balance the salty and savory flavors, contributing to the sauce’s thick texture. Avoid using honey if you want to keep the dish fully vegan.

How long do vegan sticky sesame chickpeas stay fresh in the fridge?

Cooked sticky sesame chickpeas can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a small splash of vegetable broth or a touch of sesame oil to restore the saucy texture and prevent the chickpeas from drying out. Reheat gently over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through.

Can the sticky sesame sauce be used with other foods besides chickpeas?

Absolutely. The versatile sticky sesame sauce pairs well with tofu, cauliflower, noodles, and various stir-fried vegetables or grains. It can also complement plant-based proteins or even fish and chicken for non-vegan meals. This flexibility makes the sauce a great addition to multiple dishes, helping add flavor without much extra effort.

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Vegan Sticky Sesame Chickpeas

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🌱 This Vegan Sticky Sesame Chickpeas recipe offers a flavorful and nutritious plant-based dish with a delicious sweet and savory glaze.
🍯 The sticky sauce perfectly coats protein-packed chickpeas, making it a satisfying meal or side that’s easy to prepare and versatile.

  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

– 2 cans (15 ounces each) of chickpeas

– 3 to 4 large cloves of garlic

– 1 tablespoon of avocado or olive oil

– 1.5 tablespoons of sesame oil

– 1/3 cup of low sodium tamari or soy sauce

– 3 tablespoons of maple syrup

– 2 teaspoons of rice vinegar

– 1/2 teaspoon of ginger

– 1 tablespoon of tapioca starch (or arrowroot/corn starch as a substitute)

– 1/4 cup of low sodium vegetable broth or water, divided

– 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes for spice

Instructions

1-First: drain and rinse the chickpeas to remove any excess liquid. Then, mince the garlic and sauté it in 1 tablespoon of avocado or olive oil over medium heat until it’s fragrant and slightly golden, which takes about 1-2 minutes. In a small bowl, mix the 1 tablespoon of tapioca starch with half of the 1/4 cup vegetable broth until smooth, then set it aside for later.

2-Next, add 1/3 cup of low sodium tamari or soy sauce, 1.5 tablespoons of sesame oil, 3 tablespoons of maple syrup, 2 teaspoons of rice vinegar, 1/2 teaspoon of ginger, and the remaining vegetable broth to the pan. Whisk everything together until well combined. Stir in the tapioca starch mixture and cook until bubbles form, thickening the sauce nicely.

3-Finally, add the drained chickpeas to the pan and stir to coat them evenly with the sauce. Cook on low heat for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce becomes thick and sticky. Remove from heat and let it sit for 5 minutes to let the flavors blend. You can serve this with steamed broccoli, quinoa, rice, or your favorite sides for a complete meal.

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Notes

🧂 Use low sodium tamari or soy sauce to control saltiness.
🥄 Add more starch if the sauce doesn’t thicken properly.
🍯 Substitute maple syrup with honey, brown sugar, or coconut sugar but do not omit for best stickiness and flavor.

  • Author: Brandi Oshea
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Sautéing and Simmering
  • Cuisine: Vegan/Plant-Based
  • Diet: Vegan, Gluten-Free

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 321 kcal
  • Sugar: 9 g
  • Sodium: 800 mg
  • Fat: 9.6 g
  • Saturated Fat: 1.5 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 49 g
  • Fiber: 10.5 g
  • Protein: 11.5 g
  • Cholesterol: 0 mg

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