Vegan Garlic Broccoli Stir Fry with Chickpeas

A quick, nutritious, and flavorful dish, this Vegan Garlic Broccoli Stir Fry with Chickpeas is perfect for busy weeknights. Packed with vibrant veggies, protein-rich chickpeas, and a garlicky soy-based sauce, this recipe is both satisfying and versatile.

It’s a meal that’s not only wholesome but also bursts with vibrant colors and flavors. Whether you’re an experienced cook or just starting out, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen.

This dish is ideal for meal prepping or sharing with friends and family. You can enjoy it fresh, but it also reheats beautifully for leftovers. The balance of fresh vegetables, plant-based protein, and a rich, garlicky sauce makes this recipe a must-try.

Ingredients

For the Stir Fry:

• 2 cups broccoli florets, washed and cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced into thin strips
• 1 cup snap peas, ends trimmed
• 1 cup cooked chickpeas (canned or freshly cooked)
• 2 tablespoons sesame oil (or any neutral oil of your choice)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced finely
• 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated or finely minced
• 2 green onions, sliced thinly (optional, for garnish)
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)

For the Sauce:

• 1/4 cup soy sauce (or tamari for a gluten-free option)
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar for a tangy kick
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup or agave for a touch of sweetness
• 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil to add depth of flavor
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch (or arrowroot powder) dissolved in 2 tablespoons water to thicken the sauce

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

1. Begin by washing and chopping all your vegetables. Make sure the broccoli florets are evenly sized for even cooking.
2. If using canned chickpeas, rinse and drain them thoroughly to remove excess sodium.
3. Mince the garlic and grate the ginger. These aromatics are key to the flavor profile of this dish.

Step 2: Make the Sauce

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, rice vinegar, maple syrup, toasted sesame oil, and the cornstarch-water mixture. The cornstarch will help the sauce thicken as it cooks.
2. Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning if necessary. If you prefer a spicier kick, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha.

Step 3: Cook the Stir Fry

1. Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat and add the sesame oil. Allow the oil to heat up until it shimmers.
2. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, stirring constantly for about 30 seconds or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
3. Toss in the broccoli florets and stir fry for about 3 minutes, ensuring the broccoli starts to soften but retains its vibrant green color.
4. Add the sliced red bell pepper and snap peas, continuing to stir fry for another 2-3 minutes. The vegetables should be tender-crisp at this stage.
5. Stir in the chickpeas and cook for an additional 2 minutes, allowing them to heat through and absorb some of the flavors.

Step 4: Combine and Serve

1. Pour the prepared sauce over the vegetable and chickpea mixture. Stir well to coat everything evenly.
2. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly and cling to the vegetables and chickpeas.
3. Remove the stir fry from heat and garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds if desired. These toppings add a burst of flavor and visual appeal.

Step 5: Serve

Serve the stir fry hot over your favorite base. Steamed rice, quinoa, or noodles work wonderfully to soak up the delicious sauce. If you’re watching your carbs, consider serving it over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.

Tips for Success

• Prep Ahead: Chop all your vegetables and mix the sauce before you start cooking. Stir frying is a quick process, and having everything ready ensures a seamless experience.
• Add Spice: If you enjoy a bit of heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or add a dash of chili oil.
• Switch It Up: Feel free to swap out the chickpeas for tofu, tempeh, or even edamame for a different source of plant-based protein.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 250
• Protein: 8g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Fat: 9g
• Fiber: 6g

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Quick & Easy: With a total prep and cook time of under 30 minutes, this dish is perfect for busy days.
2. Healthy & Nutrient-Rich: Packed with fiber, plant-based protein, and vitamins from fresh vegetables, it’s as nourishing as it is delicious.
3. Customizable: The recipe is highly versatile. Add your favorite vegetables, swap the chickpeas for another protein, or adjust the sauce to suit your taste preferences.
4. Great for Meal Prep: Make a large batch and store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days. It reheats beautifully, making it an excellent option for weekday lunches or dinners.

This Vegan Garlic Broccoli Stir Fry with Chickpeas is guaranteed to become a staple in your recipe rotation.

Bursting with flavor, texture, and nutrients, it’s a dish you’ll look forward to making again and again. Let me know how yours turns out and share your favorite tweaks!