Sticky Sesame Chickpeas (Easy Vegan Dinner Recipe!)
These Sticky Sesame Chickpeas are a quick, protein-packed dinner that comes together in just 15 minutes. Tender chickpeas coated in a rich, savory-sweet sesame sauce - vegan, gluten-free, and perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep.
Ingredients
- 2 cans (15 oz each) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 3–4 large garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon avocado oil or olive oil
- 1.5 tablespoons toasted sesame oil
- ⅓ cup tamari or soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon fresh grated ginger
- ¼ cup vegetable broth
- 1 tablespoon arrowroot powder or cornstarch
Instructions
- Drain and rinse the chickpeas thoroughly. Set aside.
- Mince the garlic and sauté with 1 tablespoon of oil over medium heat until fragrant and golden, about 1–2 minutes.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the arrowroot powder and 2 tablespoons of vegetable broth. Set aside.
- Add the sesame oil, tamari, maple syrup, rice vinegar, ginger, and remaining vegetable broth to the pan. Whisk to combine.
- Re-whisk the arrowroot slurry to prevent clumping, then pour into the pan. Stir well.
- Cook the sauce over medium-low heat until it begins to bubble.
- Add the chickpeas and stir gently to coat. Cook for 5 minutes until the sauce thickens and chickpeas absorb the flavors.
- Turn off the heat and let the dish sit for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Serve over rice, quinoa, or with steamed vegetables. Top with toasted sesame seeds and green onions if desired.
Notes
- For extra flavor and texture, sprinkle toasted sesame seeds and sliced green onions over the top before serving.
- Add steamed broccoli, bok choy, or baby spinach for more vegetables and color.
- To make it spicy, stir in chili flakes or a drizzle of sriracha.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of vegetable broth to restore the sauce's sticky consistency.
- This dish is great for weekly meal prep - the flavors deepen and improve overnight.