Looking for a delicious, protein-packed vegan breakfast that’s both hearty and flavorful? Chickpea scramble is the perfect alternative to traditional scrambled eggs, offering a satisfying texture and a rich, savory taste that will make your mornings shine.
This plant-based recipe combines simple pantry staples with vibrant spices to create a dish that’s not only nutritious but also incredibly easy to prepare. Whether you’re vegan, vegetarian, or just looking to add more plant-based meals to your diet, this chickpea scramble is a versatile and wholesome choice.
From the creamy chickpeas to the bold turmeric and smoky paprika, every bite bursts with flavor. Plus, it’s naturally gluten-free and packed with fiber, making it a great way to keep full and energized throughout the day.
It’s also perfect for meal prep or quick weeknight dinners. So, grab your skillet and let’s dive into this delightful chickpea scramble vegan recipe that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This chickpea scramble is not only a fantastic vegan alternative to eggs but also a nutritional powerhouse. It’s loaded with plant-based protein, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals.
Versatility: You can customize it with your favorite veggies, herbs, and spices. It’s a great canvas for creativity in the kitchen!
Quick and Easy: Ready in under 20 minutes, it’s perfect for busy mornings or anytime you need a fast, nourishing meal.
Budget-Friendly: Made primarily with canned chickpeas and common spices, it’s an affordable recipe that doesn’t sacrifice flavor.
Ingredients
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or any preferred cooking oil
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 1/4 cup diced bell pepper (any color)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder (for color and health benefits)
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon black salt (Kala Namak) – optional, for eggy flavor
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons nutritional yeast (optional, for cheesy flavor)
- Fresh parsley or chives, chopped for garnish
Equipment
- Medium-sized skillet or non-stick frying pan
- Mixing bowl
- Fork or potato masher
- Knife and cutting board
- Spatula
Instructions
- Prepare the chickpeas: Drain and rinse the canned chickpeas thoroughly. Transfer them to a mixing bowl and use a fork or potato masher to roughly mash the chickpeas. Aim for a texture similar to scrambled eggs – some chickpeas should remain whole while others are mashed.
- Sauté the aromatics: Heat the olive oil in your skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and diced bell pepper, cooking until they soften and become translucent, about 4-5 minutes. Stir occasionally to avoid burning.
- Add garlic and spices: Stir in the minced garlic, turmeric, smoked paprika, ground cumin, and black salt (if using). Cook for about 1 minute until fragrant, stirring constantly to combine the spices with the vegetables.
- Cook the chickpea scramble: Add the mashed chickpeas to the skillet and mix well with the sautéed vegetables and spices. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture is heated through and slightly crispy on the edges.
- Season and finish: Stir in the nutritional yeast if using, then taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed. Remove from heat and sprinkle with fresh parsley or chives for a burst of color and freshness.
- Serve warm: Serve immediately with your favorite toast, avocado slices, or vegan sausages.
Tips & Variations
To get the perfect texture, don’t over-mash the chickpeas. Leaving some whole adds a nice bite to the scramble.
You can swap the bell pepper for other vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or tomatoes to vary the flavor and nutrients. For extra creaminess, add a splash of plant-based milk or vegan cream cheese during the cooking process.
If you want a spicier scramble, toss in some chili flakes or diced jalapeños. For a smoky twist, add a dash of liquid smoke or chipotle powder.
To boost protein, serve your scramble with a side of beans or sprinkle hemp seeds on top. This recipe also freezes well — simply cool completely and store in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
---|---|
Calories | 220 |
Protein | 12g |
Fat | 7g |
Carbohydrates | 26g |
Fiber | 8g |
Sodium | 300mg |
Vitamin C | 25% DV |
Iron | 15% DV |
Serving Suggestions
This chickpea scramble pairs beautifully with toasted sourdough or whole grain bread and a side of fresh avocado for a creamy contrast. You can also serve it wrapped in a warm tortilla with salsa and vegan sour cream for a tasty breakfast burrito.
For a heartier meal, add roasted potatoes or a simple green salad. If you love breakfast bowls, layer chickpea scramble with quinoa, sautéed greens, and pickled vegetables for a colorful, nutrient-dense dish.
Enjoy it alongside other vibrant recipes like Thelma Sanders Squash Recipe or spice things up with some tangy bites from the Pickled Cherry Pepper Recipe. For those who want hearty comfort food later, check out the Bariatric Meatloaf Recipe for inspiration.
Conclusion
Chickpea scramble is a fantastic way to start your day with a nutritious, flavorful, and satisfying meal that’s entirely plant-based. This recipe is simple enough for beginners but flexible enough to adapt to your unique taste preferences.
Packed with protein and fiber, it keeps you full and energized, making it a smart choice for breakfast, lunch, or even a light dinner.
With its rich spices and vibrant veggies, chickpea scramble proves that vegan cooking can be both delicious and easy. Whether you’re a longtime vegan or just exploring plant-based options, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser that will quickly become one of your favorites.
So, give it a try and enjoy a tasty, wholesome meal that supports your health and the planet!
📖 Recipe Card: Chickpea Scramble Vegan Recipe
Description: A flavorful and protein-packed vegan alternative to scrambled eggs using chickpeas and spices. Perfect for a quick and nutritious breakfast or brunch.
Prep Time: PT10M
Cook Time: PT15M
Total Time: PT25M
Servings: 3 servings
Ingredients
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black salt (kala namak) for eggy flavor
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup diced onion
- 1/4 cup diced bell pepper
- 2 tablespoons nutritional yeast
- 2 tablespoons water
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
- Add diced onion and bell pepper, sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened.
- In a bowl, mash chickpeas with water until crumbly but not pureed.
- Add turmeric, garlic powder, onion powder, black salt, black pepper, and nutritional yeast to the mashed chickpeas and mix well.
- Add the chickpea mixture to the pan and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently.
- Adjust seasoning to taste and cook until heated through.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.
Nutrition: Calories: 220 kcal | Protein: 12 g | Fat: 7 g | Carbs: 25 g
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