General Tsos Chickpeas Twist (Print)

Crispy chickpeas meet a tangy, sweet, and spicy sauce for a flavorful plant-based main served with rice.

# What You Need:

→ Chickpeas

01 - 2 cans (15 oz each) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
02 - 2 tablespoons cornstarch
03 - 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

→ Sauce

04 - 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
05 - 3 tablespoons rice vinegar
06 - 3 tablespoons maple syrup or agave nectar
07 - 2 tablespoons tomato paste
08 - 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
09 - 1 tablespoon sriracha or chili garlic sauce
10 - 2 teaspoons toasted sesame oil
11 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
12 - 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
13 - 1/4 cup water
14 - 2 teaspoons cornstarch

→ For Serving and Garnish

15 - 2 cups cooked jasmine or basmati rice
16 - 2 scallions, thinly sliced
17 - 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
18 - Steamed broccoli or snow peas, optional

# How to Make:

01 - In a medium bowl, toss the drained chickpeas with cornstarch until coated evenly.
02 - Heat vegetable oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chickpeas and sauté for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden and crisp. Transfer chickpeas to a plate and set aside.
03 - In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, maple syrup, tomato paste, hoisin sauce, sriracha, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, and water. Whisk in cornstarch until fully dissolved.
04 - Pour the sauce mixture into the same skillet. Simmer over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens, about 2 to 3 minutes.
05 - Return the crispy chickpeas to the skillet and toss to coat thoroughly in the sauce. Cook for another 2 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
06 - Serve hot over steamed rice. Garnish with sliced scallions, toasted sesame seeds, and steamed broccoli or snow peas if desired.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Made with pantry staples you likely have on hand
  • Comes together in thirty five minutes from start to finish
  • Packed with plantbased protein and fiber to keep you full
  • Customizable heat level so everyone at the table stays happy
  • Kidapproved vibrant and so much lighter than takeout
02 -
  • High in fiber and rich in plantbased protein thanks to chickpeas
  • Vegan and easy to make gluten free with the right soy and hoisin sauce
  • Leftovers reheat perfectly for quick lunches or meal prep
03 -
  • Let chickpeas get really golden before adding to the sauce it makes all the difference
  • Always dissolve the cornstarch thoroughly in your sauce base to prevent lumps during thickening
  • A quick steam of broccoli or snow peas in the microwave makes for a speedy healthy side
  • If you prefer even more crunch try baking the chickpeas as described in the recipe notes
  • Taste your sauce before adding the chickpeas and adjust the sriracha or sweetener to your preference

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