Vegan Sticky Sesame Chickpeas Recipe

If you’re craving a dish that’s bursting with flavor, utterly satisfying, and wonderfully simple to make, then you need to meet my all-time favorite: Vegan Sticky Sesame Chickpeas. This recipe combines tender chickpeas coated in a luscious, sticky sauce that’s perfectly balanced with savory tamari, sweet maple syrup, and the irresistible warmth of toasted sesame oil. It’s a delightful harmony of textures and tastes that will have you reaching for seconds, and it’s an absolute breeze to whip up any night of the week. Trust me, once you try these Vegan Sticky Sesame Chickpeas, they’ll quickly become a staple in your kitchen rotation.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this recipe lies in its beautifully simple yet impactful ingredients. Each one isn’t just there to fill the bowl; they bring unique layers of flavor, texture, and color that make these Vegan Sticky Sesame Chickpeas truly shine.

• Chickpeas: The star of the show, providing creamy texture and a hearty base packed with protein.
• Garlic: Adds depth and a gentle pungency that wakes up the palate.
• Avocado or olive oil: For sautéing the garlic to golden perfection and introducing a subtle richness.
• Toasted sesame oil: A potent flavor booster that delivers that iconic nutty aroma and taste.
• Tamari or soy sauce: Brings the savory umami punch without overpowering the dish.
• Maple syrup: Sweetness that balances the salty and tangy notes flawlessly.
• Rice vinegar: Adds brightness and a slight tang, lifting the overall flavor.
• Fresh grated ginger: Infuses a fresh, slightly spicy zest.
• Vegetable broth: Keeps the sauce moist and helps meld all flavors seamlessly.
• Arrowroot powder or cornstarch: The secret to that perfect sticky, glossy finish coating every chickpea.

How to Make Vegan Sticky Sesame Chickpeas

Step 1: Prepare the Chickpeas

Start by draining and rinsing two cans of chickpeas thoroughly. This step ensures they lose their canned taste and are ready to soak up the delicious sauce that’s coming their way.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic

Grab 3 to 4 large cloves of minced garlic and sauté them in a tablespoon of avocado or olive oil over medium heat. Let the garlic become fragrant and golden brown—this little step unlocks incredible depth and warmth in your dish.

Step 3: Mix the Thickener

In a small bowl, whisk together one tablespoon of arrowroot powder (or cornstarch) with two tablespoons of vegetable broth. This smooth mixture is what will turn your sauce gloriously sticky without any heaviness.

Step 4: Build the Sauce

Add 1.5 tablespoons of toasted sesame oil, one-third cup of tamari or soy sauce, two tablespoons of maple syrup, one tablespoon of rice vinegar, one tablespoon of fresh grated ginger, and the remaining vegetable broth (about a quarter cup) right into your pan. Whisk everything together to create a harmonious blend of savory, sweet, tangy, and aromatic flavors.

Step 5: Combine and Thicken

Give your arrowroot mixture a quick re-whisk to smooth out any settling and pour it into the sauce. Keep stirring as you cook the sauce over medium-low heat until it begins to bubble gently and thicken—this is where the magic stickiness happens.

Step 6: Coat the Chickpeas

Gently add the chickpeas to the pan and toss them slowly to make sure each one is luxuriously coated. Let the chickpeas simmer in the sauce for about five minutes so they soak up all those incredible layers of flavor.

Step 7: Let Flavors Meld

Turn off the heat and allow the dish to rest for 5 minutes. This little pause lets the flavors deepen and the sauce thicken even more, making every bite sing.

How to Serve Vegan Sticky Sesame Chickpeas

Garnishes

Sprinkle some toasted sesame seeds over the top for a lovely crunch and a visual pop. Freshly chopped green onions or a handful of cilantro leaves add brightness and a fresh contrast to the rich sauce.

Side Dishes

Vegan Sticky Sesame Chickpeas pair perfectly with steamed jasmine rice or fluffy quinoa to soak up all that sticky goodness. For a low-carb option, serve alongside stir-fried or roasted veggies like broccoli, snap peas, or bok choy.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving these chickpeas in lettuce cups for a light, refreshing meal or spoon them over a baked sweet potato for a cozy, nutrient-packed bowl. They’re also fantastic tossed into a hearty grain salad for lunch on the go.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Vegan Sticky Sesame Chickpeas keep beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making leftovers a treat to look forward to.

Freezing

You can freeze this dish for up to 3 months by placing it in a freezer-safe container. Just be sure to thaw it fully in the fridge before reheating for the best texture and taste.

Reheating

When reheating, do so gently either on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of vegetable broth or water if the sauce has thickened too much, to bring it back to that perfect sticky consistency.

FAQs

Can I use dried chickpeas instead of canned?

Absolutely! If you prefer to use dried chickpeas, just soak and cook them until tender beforehand. This can add a nice homemade touch, though canned chickpeas are a great shortcut that saves time without sacrificing flavor.

Is there a substitute for arrowroot powder?

Yes, cornstarch works just as well to thicken the sauce. Just make sure to mix it with cold liquid before adding to prevent clumps and achieve that perfect sticky texture.

Can I make this recipe oil-free?

For a lighter version, you can skip the avocado or olive oil and dry-sauté the garlic in a non-stick pan. The toasted sesame oil is key for flavor, so it’s best to keep that, but you can reduce the quantity slightly if you prefer.

How spicy is Vegan Sticky Sesame Chickpeas?

This recipe is naturally mild and crowd-friendly with subtle warmth from the ginger. You can easily add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha if you like some heat.

Can I use regular soy sauce instead of tamari?

Yes, regular soy sauce works fine, but tamari is gluten-free and milder in flavor, which some people prefer. Use whichever fits your dietary needs and taste preferences.

Final Thoughts

These Vegan Sticky Sesame Chickpeas are truly a game-changer in the world of simple plant-based meals. The way the sauce clings to each chickpea with that perfect balance of sweet, salty, and nutty is irresistible. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or impressing friends at a casual dinner, this recipe brings so much comfort and joy to the table. I encourage you to try making Vegan Sticky Sesame Chickpeas soon—you might just find your new favorite go-to dish.

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