Vegan Chickpea Shawarma Bowls Flavorful and Nutritious

Craving a delicious, healthy meal? These Vegan Chickpea Shawarma Bowls pack a punch of flavor and nutrition! With roasted chickpeas, fluffy quinoa, and fresh veggies, you’ll get a satisfying meal in every bite. Plus, the option for custom toppings means your bowls can be as unique as you are! Let’s dive into this simple recipe that balances health and taste perfectly.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

- 1 can chickpeas

- 2 tablespoons olive oil

- 2 teaspoons ground cumin

- 2 teaspoons ground coriander

- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric

- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder

- Salt and pepper to taste

- 1 cup quinoa

- 2 cups vegetable broth or water

Chickpeas are the star of this dish. I use one can, which makes it quick. I like to season them with olive oil and spices. The spices bring warm flavors that make your taste buds dance. The quinoa adds a hearty base. I cook it in vegetable broth for extra flavor.

Fresh Vegetables

- 1 cup diced tomatoes

- 1 cucumber, diced

- 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced

- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

- Lemon wedges, for serving

Fresh vegetables bring crunch and color to the bowl. I use diced tomatoes and cucumbers for a refreshing bite. The red onion adds a sharp taste. Fresh parsley brightens the dish up. Lemon wedges give a zesty finish. You can squeeze them over the bowl for a burst of flavor.

Optional Ingredients

- Tahini sauce for drizzling

- Other toppings for personalization

I love adding tahini sauce for creaminess. It pairs so well with chickpeas. You can mix in other toppings too, like avocado or nuts. This way, you can make each bowl your own!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Chickpeas

First, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This step is key for crispy chickpeas. In a medium bowl, combine the drained and rinsed chickpeas with olive oil, cumin, coriander, smoked paprika, turmeric, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Toss them well until each chickpea is coated.

Spread the seasoned chickpeas on a baking sheet in a single layer. Roast them for 25 to 30 minutes. Remember to stir halfway through. You want them crispy and golden.

Cooking the Quinoa

While the chickpeas roast, it’s time to cook the quinoa. In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed quinoa and vegetable broth or water. Bring this mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let it simmer for about 15 minutes. This method helps the quinoa to become fluffy.

When it’s ready, check if all the liquid is absorbed. If it is, remove it from heat and let it cool slightly.

Assembling the Shawarma Bowls

Now it’s time to build your shawarma bowl! Start with a layer of quinoa at the bottom of a large bowl. Then, top the quinoa with the roasted chickpeas, diced tomatoes, diced cucumber, and sliced red onion.

For the final touch, drizzle tahini sauce over the top and sprinkle with fresh parsley. Don’t forget to serve with lemon wedges on the side for an extra zing! Enjoy your colorful and nutritious meal!

Tips & Tricks

How to Perfect Roasted Chickpeas

To know when your chickpeas are done, look for a golden color and crisp texture. The chickpeas should be firm and crunchy, not soft. If they bounce back when pressed, they are ready. You can try different seasonings to change the flavor. For a spicy kick, add cayenne pepper. For a Mediterranean twist, use oregano or sumac.

Quinoa Cooking Tips

To avoid mushy quinoa, rinse it well before cooking. Rinsing removes the bitter coating called saponin. Use a fine mesh strainer for the best results. Cook quinoa in vegetable broth for more flavor. It should boil, then simmer with the lid on until the liquid is gone. Fluff it with a fork once done to keep it light.

Serving Suggestions

You can add extra toppings to your bowls for more taste. Try avocado slices or roasted vegetables to boost nutrition. For crunch, add nuts or seeds. Pair these bowls with a side of pita bread or a fresh salad. This makes for a complete meal that looks and tastes great.

Variations

Protein Alternatives

You can switch chickpeas for other legumes. Black beans or lentils work great. You can also use tofu or tempeh for added protein. These options keep the dish fresh and exciting.

Flavor Adjustments

Want to spice things up? Add hot sauce or fresh herbs. You can try cilantro or mint for a twist. Different spice mixes can also change the flavor. Try a dash of chili powder or curry powder for a new taste.

Seasonal Variations

Seasonal veggies can brighten your bowl. In spring, add asparagus or peas. In fall, roasted sweet potatoes work well. You can adapt your bowl for any meal, like brunch or lunch. Just mix and match with what's fresh and available.

Storage Info

Storing Leftovers

To keep your Vegan Chickpea Shawarma Bowls fresh, store them in airtight containers. Place the bowls in the fridge within two hours of cooking. This helps prevent bacteria growth. The leftovers can stay fresh for up to three days. After that, the flavors may fade.

Reheating Guidelines

To reheat the chickpeas, spread them on a baking sheet. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for about 10 minutes, just until warm. You can also use a microwave. Heat them in short intervals, stirring in between. For the quinoa, add a splash of water before microwaving. This keeps it moist. Serve the reheated bowls with fresh toppings for a tasty meal.

Meal Prep Tips

For meal prep, make the chickpeas and quinoa ahead of time. Store each in separate containers. You can mix and match for quick meals. When building individual servings, layer quinoa at the bottom. Add chickpeas and veggies on top. This keeps everything fresh and ready to eat.

FAQs

What are the nutritional benefits of chickpeas?

Chickpeas are small but mighty. They are packed with protein, fiber, and vitamins. A single can offers:

- Protein: About 15 grams per can, helping to build muscle.

- Fiber: Around 12 grams, aiding digestion and keeping you full.

- Vitamins and minerals: They contain iron, magnesium, and folate, which support overall health.

Eating chickpeas can lower cholesterol and keep your heart healthy. They also provide a slow release of energy, making them perfect for meals.

Can I make Vegan Chickpea Shawarma Bowls gluten-free?

Yes, you can easily make these bowls gluten-free. Here are some tips:

- Use gluten-free grains: Replace quinoa with brown rice or millet if needed.

- Check labels: Make sure your tahini and vegetable broth are gluten-free.

- Fresh vegetables: All fresh veggies used in the recipe are naturally gluten-free.

These swaps keep the flavors and textures intact while ensuring everyone can enjoy the meal.

How do I make this recipe oil-free?

To create an oil-free version, follow these suggestions:

- Skip the oil: Toss chickpeas with spices and a splash of vegetable broth or lemon juice instead.

- Roast with water: Use a bit of water or vegetable broth on your baking sheet. This will keep the chickpeas moist while roasting.

- Flavor boost: Add more spices like smoked paprika or garlic powder for extra taste without oil.

These changes keep the dish healthy while maintaining its deliciousness.

In this article, I shared a simple and tasty recipe for Chickpea Shawarma Bowls. We covered the main ingredients, like chickpeas and quinoa, and detailed how to prep, cook, and assemble your bowl. I also shared helpful tips and fun variations to personalize your dish.

Remember, cooking can be enjoyable and easy. You can mix flavors and adjust based on your taste. Explore different toppings and seasonal veggies. Enjoy your cooking journey!