Description
This quick and easy Sticky Sesame Chickpeas & Broccoli dish is the perfect vegan dinner that’s loaded with flavor. The sweet and savory sesame sauce, crispy chickpeas, and charred broccoli come together in a meal that’s both healthy and satisfying. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s ideal for busy weeknights or when you’re craving something hearty and plant-based.
Ingredients
- ¼ cup honey (or maple syrup for vegan)
- ¼ cup ketchup
- ¼ cup reduced-sodium soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons rice wine vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 2 teaspoons cornstarch
- 3 tablespoons neutral oil (e.g., canola), divided
- 1 large head broccoli (cut into florets, about 1 pound)
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt (or more, to taste)
- 2 cloves garlic, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon ginger, finely chopped
- 2 (14.5-ounce) cans chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- ⅛ teaspoon baking soda
- 2 tablespoons toasted sesame seeds (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Sauce:
- In a small bowl, whisk together honey, ketchup, soy sauce, rice wine vinegar, sesame oil, and cornstarch until smooth. Set aside.
- Cook the Broccoli:
- Heat 2 tablespoons of neutral oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the broccoli florets and sprinkle with kosher salt. Cook for 5–6 minutes, tossing occasionally, until the broccoli is charred and tender.
- Transfer the broccoli to a plate and set aside.
- Sauté the Aromatics:
- In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of oil.
- Add garlic and ginger, sautéing for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Crisp the Chickpeas:
- Add the drained chickpeas to the skillet along with the baking soda. Stir well to coat the chickpeas with the aromatics.
- Cook for 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chickpeas are slightly crispy.
- Add the Sauce:
- Stir the prepared sauce to recombine and pour it into the skillet with the chickpeas.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cook for 1–2 minutes, stirring, until the sauce thickens and coats the chickpeas.
- Combine with Broccoli:
- Return the cooked broccoli to the skillet and toss everything together until evenly coated. Adjust salt to taste, if needed.
- Serve and Garnish:
- Divide the chickpea and broccoli mixture among serving bowls.
- Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds and serve immediately.
Notes
- Optional Spice: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or drizzle with sriracha for extra heat.
- Customize Veggies: Swap or add veggies like bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots.
- Make it Gluten-Free: Use tamari or gluten-free soy sauce.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired