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Chickpea Tacos

Chickpea Tacos

These Chickpea Tacos are a fresh, flavorful, and easy-to-make vegetarian dish perfect for quick weeknight meals. Packed with protein-rich chickpeas seasoned with smoky spices and topped with crisp vegetables and optional creamy extras, they offer a satisfying, wholesome twist on traditional tacos that’s vegan and gluten-free when using corn tortillas.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh Toppings

  • Shredded lettuce
  • Diced tomatoes
  • Diced red onion
  • Sliced avocado (optional)

Base & Extras

  • Soft corn or flour tortillas
  • Fresh lime juice, to taste
  • Optional toppings: salsa, vegan sour cream, sliced jalapeños, shredded cheese or dairy-free alternative, chopped cilantro or parsley

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chickpeas: Drain and rinse canned chickpeas thoroughly. Pat them dry using a clean kitchen towel or paper towels to help achieve a crispy texture when cooked.
  2. Season the Chickpeas: In a bowl, toss the dried chickpeas with olive oil, cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Ensure they are evenly coated with the spice mixture.
  3. Cook the Chickpeas: Heat a skillet over medium heat and sauté the seasoned chickpeas until they develop a golden crust, about 8 to 10 minutes. Stir occasionally to cook evenly and avoid burning.
  4. Prepare Tortillas and Toppings: While chickpeas are cooking, warm tortillas on a dry pan or over a flame until soft and pliable. Chop and prepare fresh toppings like lettuce, tomatoes, red onions, and avocado.
  5. Assemble the Tacos: Fill each warm tortilla with a generous scoop of spiced chickpeas. Add desired toppings, a squeeze of fresh lime juice, and optional extras such as salsa or vegan sour cream. Serve immediately and enjoy.

Notes

  • Pat dry chickpeas thoroughly to help them crisp instead of steaming in the pan.
  • Optional: Toast spices in a dry skillet before mixing to enhance their aroma and flavor.
  • Warm tortillas properly to prevent cracking and improve flexibility.
  • Cook chickpeas in batches if needed to avoid overcrowding and maintain crispiness.
  • Always use fresh lime juice for the best bright and tangy flavor.

Nutrition

Keywords: chickpea tacos, vegetarian tacos, vegan tacos, gluten free tacos, quick taco recipe, plant-based meal