Are you a vegan looking for delicious and creative ways to incorporate chickpeas into your meals? Look no further! Chickpeas are an incredibly versatile ingredient that can be used in both sweet and savory dishes. From hearty curries and stews to crunchy snacks and indulgent desserts, the possibilities are endless.
In this article, we’ll explore 18 mouthwatering vegan chickpea recipes that will inspire you to get creative with this amazing legume. Whether you’re a busy professional looking for quick and easy meals or a foodie seeking unique flavors and textures, these recipes have got you covered. From spicy curries and roasted snacks to decadent desserts and satisfying burgers, we’ve got the perfect recipe for every occasion.
Spicy Chickpea Curry with Coconut Milk
A flavorful and spicy curry made with chickpeas, coconut milk, and a blend of aromatic spices. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as a flavorful addition to your meal prep.
Ingredients:
– 1 can chickpeas (14 oz), drained and rinsed
– 2 medium onions, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (or more to taste)
– 1 can coconut milk (14 oz)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat.
2. Add onions and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add garlic, ginger, cumin, coriander, cinnamon, and cayenne pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add chickpeas and stir to combine.
5. Pour in coconut milk and season with salt and pepper.
6. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Crispy Roasted Chickpeas with Smoked Paprika
Crispy Roasted Chickpeas with Smoked Paprika: A Flavorful Snack
Get ready to delight your taste buds with these crispy roasted chickpeas seasoned with the smoky depth of smoked paprika. Perfect as a snack or appetizer, this recipe is easy to make and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 can chickpeas (14.5 oz), drained and rinsed
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/2 tsp garlic powder
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse the chickpeas and remove any loose skins.
3. In a bowl, toss the chickpeas with olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and salt until they are evenly coated.
4. Spread the chickpeas in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Roast for 30-35 minutes or until crispy, shaking the pan halfway through.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Vegan Chickpea Salad Sandwich
This refreshing vegan chickpea salad sandwich is a great option for a healthy and satisfying lunch or snack. Made with canned chickpeas, crunchy veggies, and creamy hummus, this flavorful filling is perfect for topping your favorite bread.
Ingredients:
– 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons hummus
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 slices whole grain bread
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine chickpeas, red bell pepper, and parsley.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together hummus and lemon juice.
3. Pour the hummus mixture over the chickpea mixture and stir until well combined.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Assemble sandwiches by spreading about 1/4 cup of the salad on each bread slice.
Cooking Time: None! Just assemble and serve.
Creamy Chickpea Hummus with Garlic and Lemon
Elevate your snack game with this creamy and zesty hummus recipe, perfect for dipping veggies or pita bread. This flavorful dip is also packed with protein and fiber from chickpeas.
Ingredients:
• 1 cup cooked chickpeas
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 1/4 cup tahini
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Drain and rinse the chickpeas.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine the chickpeas, garlic, lemon juice, tahini, and olive oil.
3. Blend on high speed until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides as needed.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Serve: With pita bread, veggies, crackers, or as a sandwich spread.
Chickpea and Spinach Stew
Chickpea and Spinach Stew: A Hearty and Flavorful Meal
This stew is a perfect blend of Mediterranean flavors, packed with protein-rich chickpeas, nutritious spinach, and aromatic spices. It’s an easy and satisfying meal that can be enjoyed on its own or served with crusty bread.
Ingredients:
– 1 can chickpeas (14.5 oz)
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
– 2 teaspoons cumin
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 cups vegetable broth
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper in a little water until tender.
2. Add the chickpeas, diced tomatoes, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
3. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat and let stew cook for 20-25 minutes or until spinach is wilted.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Vegan Chickpea Burgers with Tahini Sauce
A flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional burgers, these vegan chickpea patties are packed with protein and fiber. Serve them on a toasted bun with creamy tahini sauce and your favorite toppings for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups cooked chickpeas
– 1/4 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Tahini sauce (see below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mash the chickpeas using a fork or a potato masher.
3. Add the oats, breadcrumbs, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Divide the mixture into 4 equal parts and shape each part into a patty.
5. Place the patties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Tahini Sauce:
– 1/2 cup tahini
– 1/4 cup lemon juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt to taste
Mix all ingredients together in a bowl. Serve with the chickpea burgers and your favorite toppings.
Chickpea and Sweet Potato Buddha Bowl
A nutritious and flavorful bowl filled with roasted chickpeas, sweet potatoes, and a medley of colorful vegetables, perfect for a quick and easy meal or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium-sized sweet potato, peeled and cubed
– 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
– 1 cup mixed greens (such as arugula, spinach, and lettuce)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: avocado, cherry tomatoes, or feta cheese for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss sweet potato cubes with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender.
3. In a separate pan, toss chickpeas with remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast in the oven for 15-20 minutes, or until crispy.
4. Meanwhile, assemble the Buddha bowl by placing roasted sweet potatoes and chickpeas at the bottom. Add sliced red onion on top.
5. Serve immediately and garnish with mixed greens and your choice of optional toppings.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Moroccan Chickpea and Lentil Soup
This rich and aromatic soup is a staple of Moroccan cuisine, made with the humble chickpea and lentils. Perfect for a cold winter’s day, it’s a comforting and nutritious meal that’s also vegan-friendly.
Ingredients:
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 1 can chickpeas (14.5 oz), drained and rinsed
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic until softened.
2. Add the lentils, chickpeas, vegetable broth, cumin, and smoked paprika. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley or cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Chickpea Flour Pancakes (Besan Chilla)
A popular Indian breakfast option, Chickpea Flour Pancakes are a delicious and healthy start to the day. These protein-rich pancakes are made with chickpea flour, spices, and herbs, and can be served with a variety of toppings.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup chickpea flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon cumin powder
– 1/4 teaspoon coriander powder
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 cup water
– Ghee or oil for greasing the pan
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together chickpea flour, salt, baking soda, cumin powder, and coriander powder.
2. Gradually add in lemon juice and water to form a smooth batter.
3. Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat. Grease the pan with a small amount of ghee or oil.
4. Using a ladle, pour the batter into the pan to form a circular shape.
5. Cook for 1-2 minutes, until the edges start to curl and the surface is dry.
6. Flip the pancake and cook for another minute.
7. Serve hot with your favorite toppings, such as chutney, yogurt, or chopped vegetables.
Cooking Time: 3-4 minutes per pancake
Vegan Chickpea Tikka Masala
Experience the flavors of India with this comforting and aromatic vegan take on the classic chickpea tikka masala. This dish is a perfect blend of spices, herbs, and creamy goodness that will leave you wanting more.
Ingredients:
– 1 can chickpeas (14 oz)
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon garam masala
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1 can coconut milk (14 oz)
– 1 cup vegetable broth
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a blender or food processor, combine chickpeas, onion, garlic, olive oil, garam masala, cumin, coriander, and cayenne pepper. Blend until smooth.
3. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and bake for 25 minutes.
4. Stir in coconut milk and vegetable broth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Simmer on low heat for an additional 10-15 minutes.
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve over basmati rice or naan.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Chickpea and Avocado Wrap with Turmeric Dressing
Brighten up your lunch with this flavorful wrap packed with creamy avocado, nutty chickpeas, and a hint of warm turmeric. This vibrant recipe is perfect for a quick and nutritious meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 large flour tortilla
– 1/2 cup cooked chickpeas
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: sliced red onion, cucumber, or sprouts for added crunch
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice and turmeric powder.
2. Spread the chickpeas on one half of the tortilla, leaving a 1-inch border.
3. Top with diced avocado, chopped cilantro, and a pinch of salt and pepper to taste.
4. Drizzle the turmeric dressing over the filling.
5. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling.
6. Serve immediately and customize with your favorite toppings.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Chickpea and Quinoa Stuffed Peppers
A flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines the protein-packed punch of chickpeas with the fiber-rich goodness of quinoa.
Ingredients:
– 4 bell peppers (any color), seeded and chopped
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1 can chickpeas (15 oz), drained and rinsed
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: shredded cheese or chopped fresh herbs for topping
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine quinoa, chickpeas, onion, garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper.
3. Stuff each bell pepper with the quinoa mixture, filling to the top.
4. Place peppers in a baking dish and drizzle with olive oil.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Vegan Chickpea Chocolate Chip Cookies
Rich, chewy cookies packed with protein and flavor, perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth while staying vegan-friendly!
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup canned chickpeas, rinsed and drained
– 1/4 cup vegan chocolate chips
– 1/4 cup maple syrup
– 1/4 cup coconut oil
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, oats, and chickpeas.
3. In a separate bowl, mix together chocolate chips, maple syrup, coconut oil, vanilla extract, and salt.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until combined.
5. Drop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Chickpea and Kale Coconut Curry
A vibrant and aromatic curry that combines the natural sweetness of chickpeas with the earthy flavor of kale, all wrapped up in a rich coconut cream sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 can chickpeas (14 oz), drained and rinsed
– 2 cups curly kale, stems removed and chopped
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon curry powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1 can coconut milk (14 oz)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pan, sauté the onion and garlic until softened.
2. Add the curry powder, cumin, and turmeric; cook for 1 minute.
3. Stir in the chickpeas and kale; cook until the greens are wilted.
4. Pour in the coconut milk and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
6. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chickpea and Tomato Shakshuka
Shakshuka is a flavorful North African dish that’s perfect for brunch or dinner. This recipe combines the richness of chickpeas with the sweetness of tomatoes, all in one skillet.
Ingredients:
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 2 large tomatoes, diced
– 1 red bell pepper, sliced
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the chickpeas, tomatoes, bell pepper, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Create 2-3 wells in the mixture and crack an egg into each well.
6. Cover the skillet and cook until the whites are set and yolks are still runny, about 10-12 minutes.
7. Garnish with parsley or cilantro, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Vegan Chickpea Meatballs in Marinara Sauce
Vegan Chickpea Meatballs in Marinara Sauce Recipe
Experience the classic Italian flavor with a plant-based twist! This recipe combines chickpeas, oats, and herbs to create tender meatballs that simmer beautifully in a rich marinara sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 can chickpeas (15 ounces), drained and rinsed
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup nutritional yeast
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a food processor, combine chickpeas, oats, breadcrumbs, nutritional yeast, garlic, olive oil, and oregano. Process until coarsely chopped.
3. Use your hands to shape the mixture into 12-15 meatballs.
4. Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 20-22 minutes or until lightly browned.
5. Remove from oven and let cool slightly. Serve in marinara sauce, garnished with basil leaves.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chickpea and Cucumber Salad with Lemon Tahini
A refreshing summer salad that combines the creaminess of lemon tahini with the crunch of chickpeas and cucumber.
Ingredients:
– 1 (15 oz) can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 2 cups thinly sliced cucumber
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 3 tablespoons tahini
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine lemon juice, tahini, garlic, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth.
2. In a large bowl, combine chickpeas, cucumber slices, and lemon-tahini sauce. Toss to coat.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Just before serving, garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (plus chilling time)
Chickpea and Mushroom Stir-Fry with Ginger
This aromatic stir-fry combines the savory flavors of chickpeas, mushrooms, and ginger for a quick and satisfying meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 can chickpeas (14 oz), drained and rinsed
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 inches fresh ginger, peeled and minced
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Chopped scallions and sesame seeds, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown (3-4 minutes).
3. Add the ginger, garlic, and remaining 1 tablespoon of oil. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. Stir in the chickpeas, soy sauce, salt, and pepper.
5. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing flavors to meld.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Garnish with scallions and sesame seeds, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Discover the versatility of chickpeas with these 18 flavorful vegan recipes! From comforting curries and hearty stews to crispy snacks and sweet treats, there’s something for every occasion. Highlights include Spicy Chickpea Curry with Coconut Milk, Crispy Roasted Chickpeas with Smoked Paprika, Vegan Chickpea Burgers with Tahini Sauce, and many more. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch or a satisfying dinner, these recipes showcase the incredible range of chickpea-based dishes that are sure to please both vegans and non-vegans alike.
