If you’ve been searching for a plant-based twist on a classic favorite, look no further! General Tso Chickpeas are a delightful dish that brings together the sweet and savory flavors reminiscent of the beloved General Tso’s chicken, but in a hearty, nutritious version that’s entirely meat-free. This dish is not just easy to prepare; it’s also packed with protein, fiber, and vibrant vegetables, making it a wholesome meal option for any day of the week. Serve it over rice or cauliflower rice for a filling dinner that will please both vegetarians and meat-lovers alike!

Why Cooks Rave About It

General Tso Chickpeas have gained popularity not just for their flavor but for their versatility and ease of preparation. Here’s why cooks can’t stop raving about this dish:

Flavor Explosion: The combination of soy sauce, hoisin sauce, and sesame oil creates a rich umami flavor profile that’s hard to resist.
Quick to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip this dish up in under 30 minutes.
Health Benefits: Chickpeas are a fantastic source of protein and fiber, making this dish filling and nutritious.
Colorful Presentation: The vibrant mix of vegetables not only adds flavor but also makes your plate visually appealing.
Customizable: Feel free to adapt the vegetables based on what you have on hand or what’s in season.

Your Shopping Guide

Before you dive into making General Tso Chickpeas, here’s what you’ll need to gather from the grocery store:

Cornstarch: 1 tablespoon for thickening the sauce.
Chicken Stock or Broth: 3/4 cup, I recommend Swanson for great flavor.
Soy Sauce: 3 tablespoons, regular (not lite) for authentic taste.
Hoisin Sauce: 1-1/2 tablespoons for that sweet and tangy flavor.
Rice Vinegar: 1-1/2 tablespoons for acidity.
Toasted Sesame Oil: 2 teaspoons, plus more for drizzling.
Chili Paste: 2 teaspoons to add some heat (adjust to your preference).
Light Brown Sugar: 1/4 cup, very lightly packed, to balance the flavors.
Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons for sautéing.
Red Onion: 1 cup, thinly sliced for sweetness.
Carrots: 3/4 cup, sliced diagonally (about 2 large carrots) for crunch.
Snow Peas: 1 cup for freshness.
Broccoli Florets: 2 cups, chopped for a hearty texture.
Red Bell Pepper: 1 cup, thinly sliced for sweetness and color.
Ginger: 1 tablespoon, minced for warmth.
Garlic: 1 tablespoon, finely chopped for depth of flavor.
Chickpeas: 2 (15.5-ounce) cans, drained and rinsed for protein.
Toasted Sesame Seeds: Optional, for garnish.
Green Onions: Thinly sliced, optional for freshness.
Cooked Rice or Cauliflower Rice: For serving, optional.

What You’ll Need (Gear)

To get started, gather the following kitchen essentials:

Large Skillet or Wok: For stir-frying the ingredients.
Wooden Spoon or Spatula: To toss and combine everything together.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements.
Cutting Board and Knife: To prep your vegetables.
Serving Bowls: For serving your delicious General Tso Chickpeas over rice.

From Start to Finish: General Tso Chickpeas

Now, let’s get cooking! Follow these steps for a delicious plate of General Tso Chickpeas:

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

In a bowl, whisk together the chicken stock, soy sauce, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, 2 teaspoons of sesame oil, chili paste, light brown sugar, and cornstarch. Set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the sliced red onion and sauté for about 2 minutes until it starts to soften.

Step 3: Add the Carrots and Broccoli

Next, add the sliced carrots and chopped broccoli florets to the skillet. Stir-fry for an additional 3-4 minutes, or until the broccoli is bright green and tender.

Step 4: Incorporate the Remaining Veggies

Add the snow peas, red bell pepper, minced ginger, and chopped garlic to the skillet. Stir everything together and cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the garlic to become fragrant.

Step 5: Add the Chickpeas

Once the vegetables are tender, add the drained and rinsed chickpeas to the skillet. Gently stir to combine with the veggies.

Step 6: Pour in the Sauce

Pour the prepared sauce over the chickpeas and vegetables. Bring to a gentle simmer, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens, about 2-3 minutes.

Step 7: Final Touches

Drizzle the remaining teaspoon of toasted sesame oil over the dish for added flavor. Stir well to combine.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy!

Serve your General Tso Chickpeas over cooked rice or cauliflower rice. Garnish with toasted sesame seeds and thinly sliced green onions, if desired. Enjoy your delicious, colorful meal!

Seasonal Adaptations

One of the great things about General Tso Chickpeas is their adaptability to seasonal vegetables. Here are some ideas:

Spring: Swap in asparagus or snap peas for the snow peas.
Summer: Add zucchini and bell peppers for a fresh touch.
Fall: Incorporate butternut squash or sweet potatoes for a heartier dish.
Winter: Use kale or cabbage for a warming variation.

Testing Timeline

To ensure your General Tso Chickpeas turn out perfectly, consider the following timeline:

Prep Time: 10 minutes for chopping vegetables and whisking the sauce.
Cook Time: 15-20 minutes for sautéing and simmering.
Total Time: Approximately 30 minutes from start to finish.

Storing, Freezing & Reheating

If you have leftovers (which may not happen!), here’s how to store and reheat your General Tso Chickpeas:

Storing: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freezing: This dish can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.
Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent sticking. You can also microwave it in a covered dish until warmed through.

More Recipes You’ll Love

If you enjoyed making General Tso Chickpeas, here are more delicious recipes to try:

Final Thoughts

General Tso Chickpeas offer a delicious, plant-based alternative to a popular favorite. With its rich flavors, vibrant colors, and healthy ingredients, it’s an excellent dish for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or hosting friends and family, this recipe is sure to impress and satisfy. So, roll up your sleeves and give it a try—you won’t be disappointed!