Description
Buffalo Chickpea Taquitos
Craving something crispy and satisfying but want to keep it plant-based? These Buffalo Chickpea Taquitos are just the thing! This quick and easy recipe lets you bake or air-fry these spicy delights to golden perfection, with chickpeas taking center stage. Perfect for a cozy Netflix night, these taquitos offer all the comfort food vibes—minus the cruelty. Try them out, and you may just switch from the classic meat-filled version. Plus, they’re gluten-free and vegan!
1 tbsp vegetable oil
1 medium onion, chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 bell pepper, chopped
1 ½ cups cooked chickpeas
½ cup tomato sauce
3 tbsp hot sauce
2 tbsp plant-based milk
1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
1 tsp onion powder
¾ tsp coconut sugar
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp smoked paprika
½ tsp cumin
Salt & pepper to taste
10 tortillas (gluten-free if needed)
Directions:
1. Preheat oven to 410°F (210°C).
2. Sauté onion, garlic, and bell pepper in oil.
3. Add chickpeas, sauce ingredients, and spices; simmer for 2-4 mins.
4. Fill tortillas, roll, brush with oil, and bake for 15-20 mins.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Kcal: 116 per taquito
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Preheat your oven to 410°F (210°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. 2. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, sauté for 3 minutes, then add the minced garlic and chopped bell pepper. Cook for another 5 minutes until softened. 3. Add the cooked chickpeas, tomato sauce, hot sauce, plant-based milk, balsamic vinegar, and all spices (onion powder, coconut sugar, garlic powder, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper). Stir well to combine. 4. Use a potato masher or fork to mash the mixture until the chickpeas are partially broken down but some texture remains. Let it simmer for 2-4 minutes until thickened. 5. Warm the tortillas slightly to make them pliable. Place 2-3 tablespoons of the chickpea filling along the lower third of each tortilla. Roll tightly and place seam-side down on the baking sheet. 6. Lightly brush or spray the taquitos with oil. Bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these spicy taquitos hot from the oven. They pair perfectly with a cooling dip like vegan ranch dressing, cashew sour cream, or a simple avocado crema. For a complete meal, add a side of crisp lettuce salad, cilantro-lime rice, or black beans. A squeeze of fresh lime juice just before eating brightens all the flavors beautifully.
How-to Summary
Sauté onions, garlic, and pepper. Add chickpeas, sauces, and spices, then mash and simmer. Fill tortillas with the mixture, roll tightly, and bake at 410°F for 15-20 minutes until crispy. Serve with cooling dips.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these taquitos in an air fryer? Absolutely. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F, arrange taquitos in a single layer, spray with oil, and cook for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway.
How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store cooled taquitos in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in an oven or air fryer at 375°F for 5-7 minutes to restore crispiness.
Can I use canned chickpeas? Yes, one 15-oz can, drained and rinsed, works perfectly for this recipe.
How can I make them less spicy? Reduce the hot sauce amount and consider using a mild buffalo sauce. The plant-based milk and tomato sauce will help balance the heat.
Can I prepare the filling ahead of time? Yes, the filling can be made and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before assembling and baking.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid overfilling the tortillas, as this can cause them to burst open during baking. Ensure the chickpea mixture is thick and not too wet; simmering adequately is key to preventing soggy taquitos. Do not skip warming the tortillas, as cold tortillas are more likely to crack when rolled. Finally, place them seam-side down on the baking sheet to help them stay sealed.
Conclusion
These Buffalo Chickpea Taquitos are a triumphant proof that plant-based comfort food can be incredibly flavorful, crispy, and satisfying. With a perfect balance of spice and texture, they are versatile enough for game day, a family dinner, or a tasty snack. This straightforward recipe delivers maximum taste with minimal fuss, making it a reliable staple for anyone looking to enjoy a delicious, cruelty-free twist on a classic.