MEATLESS STREET TACOS | OIL-FREE CHICKPEA TACOS

Preparation:

• Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
• Add the drained and rinsed chickpeas to the skillet.
• Sprinkle a couple of teaspoons of the street taco seasoning over the chickpeas.
• Drizzle lime juice, soy sauce, or a bit of tomato sauce as oil-free options over the chickpeas if you love extra flavor. Use approximately 2 tbsp of lime juice, 1 tbsp of soy sauce, or 2 tbsp of tomato sauce. Adjust the quantities based on your taste preferences.
• Sauté the chickpeas for up to 15 minutes or longer until they are heated through and coated with the seasoning and sauces. Use a spatula to occasionally stir and mash some of the chickpeas slightly if you prefer. If the chickpeas start sticking, you can add a splash of water to the skillet.
• Note: If you are using dry chickpeas it is better to soak overnight.  You will need to cook these for up to an hour or until tender.

Prepare the Vegetables:

• While the chickpeas are cooking, prepare the vegetables.
• Dice the tomatoes, finely chop the red and/or white onions, slice the jalapeños and peppers, and chop the cilantro.

Assemble the Tacos:

• Warm your taco shells according to the package instructions.
• Fill each taco shell with a spoonful of the seasoned chickpeas.
• Top with diced tomatoes, chopped red and white onions, sliced jalapeños, and sliced peppers.
• Sprinkle chopped cilantro on top.
• Add my famous cilantro-lime dressing and any taco sauce for that special fiesta flavor.

Serve:

• Serve your meatless chickpea street tacos immediately, allowing everyone to customize their own toppings.

Enjoy:

• Enjoy your flavorful and oil-free meatless street tacos with chickpeas!

Feel free to adjust the quantities of the ingredients and seasonings based on your preferences. These tacos are versatile, so you can also add other toppings such as avocado slices, vegan cheese, or a dollop of dairy-free yogurt if you like.

1. Water or Vegetable Broth: Instead of using oil, you can sauté the chickpeas in water or vegetable broth. This will help soften and flavor the chickpeas without adding any oil.
2. Lime Juice: Lime juice not only adds flavor but also helps prevent sticking. Squeeze fresh lime juice directly into the skillet while cooking the chickpeas.
3. Soy Sauce or Tamari: A splash of soy sauce or tamari can add a savory umami flavor to the chickpeas. Make sure to use a low-sodium version if you’re watching your salt intake.
4. Balsamic Vinegar: Balsamic vinegar can add a rich and tangy flavor to the chickpeas. Be sure to choose a high-quality balsamic vinegar for the best taste.
5. Tomato Sauce or Salsa: Using a small amount of tomato sauce or salsa can provide moisture and flavor to the chickpeas. Choose a no-added-sugar or low-sodium variety if possible.
6. Vegetable Juice: Pouring a small amount of vegetable juice, such as tomato or carrot juice, can add flavor and moisture to the chickpeas as they cook.
7. Coconut Aminos: Coconut aminos are a soy-free alternative to soy sauce that can add a salty and slightly sweet flavor to the chickpeas.
8. Apple Cider Vinegar: Apple cider vinegar can provide a tangy kick to the chickpeas. Mix it with a bit of water to dilute the acidity if desired.