General Tsos Chickpeas

If you’re craving a vibrant, flavorful dish that’s both satisfying and easy to make, look no further than General Tsos Chickpeas! This delightful recipe combines the classic flavors of the beloved General Tso’s chicken but swaps in wholesome chickpeas, making it a plant-based delight that everyone will love. Packed with protein and fiber, this dish is not only a feast for the senses but also a nourishing option for any meal. Let’s dive into why this recipe will quickly become a staple in your kitchen!

Why You’ll Keep Making It

General Tsos Chickpeas are more than just a meal; they are a celebration of flavor and nutrition. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep on the weekends. The combination of sweet, tangy, and spicy elements brings depth to every bite, while the chickpeas provide a satisfying texture that leaves you feeling full and happy. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile! Serve it over brown rice, quinoa, or even a bed of steamed greens for a wholesome feast.

Ingredient Rundown

To make this delicious dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 can chickpeas (15 ounces) – the star of the show, providing protein and fiber.
• 1 tablespoon canola oil or grapeseed oil – a neutral oil perfect for high-heat cooking.
• 1 large crown broccoli, cut into florets – adds a pop of color and crunch.
• 2 small red bell peppers, cored and sliced – sweet and vibrant, they enhance the dish visually and flavor-wise.
• 2 cloves minced garlic – for that aromatic base.
• 2 green onions, thinly sliced, white and green parts divided – adds freshness and a mild onion flavor.
• Toasted sesame seeds (optional) – for a crunchy garnish.
• Prepared brown rice, quinoa, sorghum, or other whole grains for serving – a hearty base for your dish.
• 1 cup water – for cooking the chickpeas and vegetables.
• 1/2 cup low sodium soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free) – for that savory umami flavor.
• 1/4 cup hoisin sauce – adds sweetness and depth.
• 3 tablespoons apricot jam – a unique twist that enhances the sweetness.
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar – to balance the flavors with acidity.
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch – for thickening the sauce.
• 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger – gives a warm, spicy kick.
• 1-2 tablespoons chili garlic sauce – adjust to your spice preference.

Tools & Equipment Needed

Before you get cooking, gather these essential tools:

• Large skillet or wok – for stir-frying the ingredients.
• Measuring cups and spoons – to ensure you get those flavors just right.
• Knife and cutting board – for chopping vegetables.
• Spatula or wooden spoon – to stir everything together.
• Serving bowls – to plate your delicious dish.

Make General Tsos Chickpeas: A Simple Method

Now, let’s get to the fun part! Follow these straightforward steps to create your General Tsos Chickpeas:

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Start by draining and rinsing the chickpeas. This helps remove excess sodium and improves the flavor. Cut the broccoli into florets, slice the red bell peppers, mince the garlic, and chop the green onions, separating the white and green parts.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large skillet or wok, heat the canola oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the white parts of the green onions, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 3: Add the Broccoli and Peppers

Next, add the broccoli florets and sliced red bell peppers to the skillet. Stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are bright and slightly tender.

Step 4: Incorporate the Chickpeas

Add the rinsed chickpeas to the skillet, stirring to combine everything. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the chickpeas to heat through.

Step 5: Prepare the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, hoisin sauce, apricot jam, rice vinegar, cornstarch, and chili garlic sauce. Pour this sauce over the chickpea and vegetable mixture in the skillet.

Step 6: Simmer and Thicken

Pour in 1 cup of water, stirring well to combine. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until the sauce thickens and coats the chickpeas and vegetables beautifully.

Step 7: Serve and Garnish

Once everything is heated through and the sauce is thickened, remove from heat. Serve over prepared brown rice, quinoa, or your choice of whole grain. Garnish with the green parts of the green onions and a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds if desired.

Low-Carb/Keto Alternatives

If you’re looking to keep this dish lower in carbs, consider these alternatives:

• Use cauliflower rice instead of brown rice or quinoa for a low-carb base.
• Substitute the chickpeas with tofu or tempeh for a protein-rich option.
• Opt for more non-starchy vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers to lighten up the dish.

Notes on Ingredients

The beauty of General Tsos Chickpeas lies in its adaptability. Feel free to swap out vegetables based on what’s in season or what you have on hand. You can also adjust the level of sweetness and spice by modifying the apricot jam and chili garlic sauce to suit your taste. If you’re looking for gluten-free options, tamari is a perfect substitute for soy sauce, and make sure to check the ingredients in your hoisin sauce as some brands may contain gluten.

Store, Freeze & Reheat

This dish can be enjoyed as leftovers, making it perfect for meal prep! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To freeze, place in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water to loosen the sauce as needed.

Quick Questions

Can I use dried chickpeas instead of canned?

Absolutely! If using dried chickpeas, soak and cook them beforehand according to package instructions before adding them to the dish.

How spicy is the dish with chili garlic sauce?

The spice level can vary based on the brand and amount of chili garlic sauce you use. Start with 1 tablespoon and adjust according to your spice preferences.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! This dish stores well and can be made ahead of time for easy reheating. Just follow the storage guidelines mentioned above.

What can I serve with General Tsos Chickpeas?

This dish pairs well with brown rice, quinoa, or even a fresh salad. You can also serve it with steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

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• Simple Vegan Stir-Fry – A fast and healthy stir-fry option.

Before You Go

Now that you have the recipe for General Tsos Chickpeas in your back pocket, you’ll be able to whip up a delicious, nutritious meal any day of the week. This dish is not only a great way to enjoy chickpeas but also a fantastic introduction to the world of plant-based cooking. With its bold flavors and satisfying texture, you won’t be able to resist making it over and over again. Happy cooking!