Easy Vegan Dinner: Sticky Sesame Chickpeas Recipe
Have you ever craved something easy, yet so flavorful it makes your taste buds dance?
I felt that craving last night, and this Sticky Sesame Chickpeas recipe was the answer. It’s one of those meals that comes together effortlessly, but tastes like you’ve put your heart and soul into it.
Plus, it’s vegan, packed with protein, and absolutely perfect for those weeknights when you just want comfort on a plate—without spending hours in the kitchen.
Why You’ll Love Sticky Sesame Chickpeas
This recipe has everything I love about a good weeknight dinner. It’s quick, easy, and uses ingredients you probably already have in your pantry.
Plus, the sticky, sweet, and slightly spicy sauce coats every chickpea so well, making each bite a flavor explosion. Whether you’re new to plant-based eating or a seasoned vegan, this dish is guaranteed to be a new favorite.
The best part? It’s super customizable! You can pair it with fluffy jasmine rice, toss it over noodles, or even wrap it up in lettuce leaves for a fun, crunchy twist. No matter how you decide to serve it, Sticky Sesame Chickpeas is sure to become a regular in your rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (to thicken)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- Sesame seeds, for garnish
- Chopped green onions, for garnish
How to Make Sticky Sesame Chickpeas
Step 1: Sauté the Chickpeas
Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is warm, add the chickpeas and sauté them for about 5-7 minutes, until they start to turn slightly golden and crispy. This helps give the chickpeas a little more texture and adds some extra depth to the dish.
Step 2: Make the Sauce
While the chickpeas are sautéing, whisk together the soy sauce, maple syrup, rice vinegar, sesame oil, minced garlic, and grated ginger in a small bowl.
This sauce is the magic behind that sticky, savory-sweet flavor that makes this dish so irresistible.
Step 3: Combine and Thicken
Pour the sauce over the chickpeas and stir well to ensure they are evenly coated. Let everything cook together for a few minutes until the sauce starts to bubble.
Stir in the cornstarch-water mixture to thicken the sauce, and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the chickpeas are sticky and glossy.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy!
Remove from heat and serve immediately, garnished with sesame seeds and chopped green onions.
I love pairing mine with steamed jasmine rice and a side of roasted broccoli, but you can get creative with your sides! This dish also works great in a grain bowl or even over a fresh green salad for something lighter.
Tips for Making the Best Sticky Sesame Chickpeas
- Adjust the Sweetness: If you prefer your dish a little less sweet, you can reduce the maple syrup by half. I find the balance just right as is, but you do you!
- Add Spice: Want a kick? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce, or drizzle with sriracha when serving.
- Texture is Key: Sautéing the chickpeas before adding the sauce is crucial for getting that slightly crispy texture. Don’t skip this step!
Final Thoughts
There’s something so satisfying about whipping up a meal that’s quick, comforting, and full of bold flavors.
This Sticky Sesame Chickpeas recipe is one I keep coming back to because it checks all the boxes—delicious, healthy, and so easy to make. I hope you enjoy it as much as I do, and if you make it, don’t forget to let me know how it turned out!
So, what are you waiting for? Grab those chickpeas and get cooking—your taste buds will thank you!
What do you think? Would you like me to add any specific tips or variations to make it even more personal?
