In the hustle and bustle of everyday life, there’s nothing quite like a cozy meal that feels like a warm hug. That’s where my Spiced Chickpeas & Rice with Roasted Cabbage and Sweet Mustard Dressing comes in—an entirely plant-based dish that’s comfort food, reimagined! With just a handful of pantry staples, you can whip up this hearty meal in under 40 minutes, making it the perfect solution for busy weeknights or when you’re simply craving something wholesome. Picture fluffy rice and tender chickpeas topped with crispy roasted cabbage, all drizzled with a tangy, sweet dressing that elevates every bite. Not only is this recipe vegan and gluten-free, but it’s also a delightful way to turn simple ingredients into a filling family favorite. Curious to see how to bring this nourishing dish to life? Let’s dive in!

Why is this dish a must-try?

Hearty Comfort: This delightful bowl of Spiced Chickpeas & Rice offers a warm, comforting taste that makes you feel right at home.
Quick Prep: With just 40 minutes needed, you have a satisfying meal ready in no time, perfect for busy evenings.
Nutritious Balance: Packed with plant-based protein from chickpeas and fiber from cabbage, it’s both healthy and filling.
Versatile Ingredients: Use pantry staples or even add in your favorite veggies—this dish truly adapts to your kitchen.
Crowd-Pleaser: Whether for family dinners or meal prep, its delicious flavors appeal to both vegan newcomers and seasoned plant-based eaters.
Looking for more delicious meals? Try out my Roasted Cauliflower Crunchy or indulge in the comforting flavors of Garlic Parmesan Roasted!

Spiced Chickpeas & Rice Ingredients

For the Spice Blend

  • Garlic Powder – Adds savory depth; substitute with fresh minced garlic for a stronger flavor.
  • Onion Powder – Provides a subtle sweetness; can be replaced with fresh onions.
  • Paprika – Contributes smokiness and color; smoked paprika can give an additional flavor twist.
  • Dried Basil – Adds aromatic herbal notes; oregano can be used as a substitute.
  • Sumac – Offers tanginess; substitute lemon zest if it’s unavailable.

For the Cabbage and Base

  • Olive Oil – Used for roasting and dressing; avocado oil can serve as an alternative.
  • Green Cabbage – Provides crunch and fiber; can be replaced with savoy cabbage or kale.
  • Yellow Onion – Adds sweetness when sautéed; shallots can be used as a substitute.
  • Garlic – Fresh flavor component; feel free to increase for a stronger garlic touch.
  • Jasmine Rice – Fluffy and fragrant base for the dish; substitute with basmati or brown rice, adjusting cooking time as needed.
  • Chickpeas – A great protein source; canned or cooked dried are both acceptable.
  • Vegetable Stock – Enhances flavor; use water for a lower-calorie option or homemade vegetable broth for extra depth.

For the Dressing

  • Chopped Fresh Parsley – Optional garnish for freshness; cilantro can substitute for a different flavor profile.
  • Toasted Sliced Almonds – Optional topping for crunch; crushed walnuts or sunflower seeds can be alternatives.
  • Vegan Mayonnaise – Adds creaminess to dressing; blended avocado works well as a substitute.
  • Apple Cider Vinegar – Provides acidity; white wine vinegar is a possible replacement.
  • Lemon Juice – Adds brightness to the dressing; you can omit if using vinegar.
  • Maple Syrup – Sweetens the dressing; agave syrup can be a similar substitute.
  • Dijon Mustard – Adds tanginess; yellow mustard can be simpler if preferred.
  • Yellow Mustard – Provides a milder mustard flavor; it can be omitted for less mustard taste.
  • Grainy Mustard – Offers texture and depth; can be omitted if necessary or replaced with another mustard type.
  • Vegan Worcestershire Sauce – Adds umami; coconut aminos can be substituted if needed.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Spiced Chickpeas & Rice with Roasted Cabbage

Step 1: Prepare the Spice Blend
In a small bowl, combine garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, dried basil, and sumac to create your flavorful spice blend. Mix well until all spices are evenly distributed. This blend will enhance the taste of both the chickpeas and the cabbage, providing that warm flavor profile you’re craving in your Spiced Chickpeas & Rice with Roasted Cabbage.

Step 2: Roast the Cabbage
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Chop the green cabbage into bite-sized pieces, then toss with 2 tablespoons of olive oil and half of the spice blend, adding a pinch of salt and pepper for seasoning. Spread the mixture on a baking sheet in a single layer. Roast in the oven for about 20-40 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the cabbage is tender and nicely browned on the edges.

Step 3: Sauté the Onions
In a large skillet, heat the remaining olive oil over medium heat. Add diced yellow onion and sauté for about 7-8 minutes, until the onions are soft and translucent. This step builds a sweet base for your Spiced Chickpeas & Rice. Stir the mixture occasionally to prevent sticking, allowing the onions to caramelize slightly for enhanced flavor.

Step 4: Add Garlic and Remaining Spices
Once the onions are soft, add minced garlic and the remaining spice blend to the skillet. Stir constantly for about 1 minute until fragrant, taking care not to let the garlic burn. This aromatic mix will infuse the chickpeas and rice with delicious flavors, furthering the heartiness of the dish.

Step 5: Incorporate Rice and Chickpeas
Add the jasmine rice and chickpeas to the skillet with the onion mixture. Pour in vegetable stock, stirring gently to combine. Raise the heat to bring the mixture to a boil before reducing to a simmer. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it cook for about 25 minutes, allowing the rice to absorb the flavors and liquid.

Step 6: Prepare the Sweet Mustard Dressing
While the rice and chickpeas are cooking, prepare your dressing. In a sealed jar, combine olive oil, vegan mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, lemon juice, maple syrup, Dijon, yellow, and grainy mustard. Add a sprinkle of garlic powder, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Shake vigorously until well combined, adjusting the sweetness as per your taste preferences.

Step 7: Finish the Dish
Once your rice is fluffy and cooked, remove it from heat, and gently mix in chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor. Fluff the rice and chickpeas with a fork to separate the grains. Serve hot, topped generously with roasted cabbage, a sprinkle of toasted sliced almonds, and a drizzle of the sweet mustard dressing for added zing.

What to Serve with Spiced Chickpeas & Rice with Roasted Crispy Cabbage

Experience the heartwarming joy of a meal balanced with flavors and textures to elevate your Spiced Chickpeas & Rice.

  • Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The silky texture pairs well with the crunch of cabbage and adds a comforting element to your meal.
  • Roasted Vegetable Medley: Seasonal veggies, like carrots and bell peppers, bring vibrant colors and an earthy taste that complements the spices.
  • Crisp Side Salad: A refreshing mix of greens, tomatoes, and a zesty vinaigrette balances the richness of the rice dish beautifully.
  • Garlic Bread: The warm, buttery garlic bread adds a delightful crunch and savory flavor, perfect for scooping up all that delicious dressing.
  • Coconut Curry: A mild coconut curry can create an exotic twist, enhancing the chickpea flavors while remaining satisfying and filling.
  • Herbed Quinoa: Light and fluffy, quinoa tossed with fresh herbs offers a nutty flavor complementing the sweet mustard dressing perfectly.
  • Homemade Coleslaw: A crunchy slaw featuring cabbage and a tangy dressing ties in harmoniously with the roasted cabbage elements.
  • Fruity Chia Seed Pudding: For dessert, this light and refreshing treat adds a touch of natural sweetness and texture, rounding off your meal nicely.
  • Iced Hibiscus Tea: This floral drink offers a refreshing contrast to the dish, enhancing the meal’s overall experience with its invigorating flavor.
  • Vegan Chocolate Mousse: Rich and creamy, this dessert brings a decadent finish, harmonizing with the meal’s wholesome ingredients while satisfying your sweet tooth.

Expert Tips for Spiced Chickpeas & Rice

Watch the Cabbage: Keep a close eye on the roasted cabbage to prevent it from burning; flip it around the 15-minute mark for even browning.

Toasty Texture: For the best crunch, ensure the sliced almonds are toasted before adding them on top—this enhances their flavor and texture.

Adjust Sweetness: Taste the sweet mustard dressing before serving; feel free to tweak the sweetness to match your preferences with maple syrup.

Cooking Rice Right: Use vegetable stock for rich flavor, but if you want fewer calories, water works just fine, though it may dilute the taste slightly; follow instructions for best results.

Fresh Herb Finish: Don’t skip the fresh parsley! It adds more than just color—it brings a burst of flavor that elevates the entire dish.

Meal Prep Made Easy: Consider making extra for meal prep; it stores well in the fridge for up to 4 days, making your busy week just a bit easier.

Make Ahead Options

These Spiced Chickpeas & Rice with Roasted Cabbage are fantastic for meal prep! You can roast the cabbage and prepare the dressing up to 24 hours in advance. Simply store the roasted cabbage in an airtight container in the fridge and refrigerate the dressing separately to maintain freshness. The rice and chickpeas can be cooked and kept in the fridge for up to 3 days; just reheat with a splash of vegetable stock to keep the rice fluffy. When ready to serve, fluff the rice and chickpeas, top with the roasted cabbage, and drizzle with the dressing for a meal that’s just as delicious as when it was freshly made!

Spiced Chickpeas & Rice Variations

Customize your Spiced Chickpeas & Rice with a few fun twists or substitutes that will delight your taste buds!

  • Grain Swap: Use quinoa or farro instead of jasmine rice for a different texture and nutty taste.
  • Veggie Boost: Add bell peppers or carrots during the rice cooking step for extra color and nutrients.
  • Dairy-Free Creaminess: Swap vegan mayonnaise with blended avocado for a fresh and creamy dressing alternative.
  • Nutty Flavor: Consider using tahini instead of mustard in the dressing for a unique, rich flavor.
  • Extra Spice: Add cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes for a kick of heat, just adjust based on your spice tolerance.
  • Cabbage Twist: Try savoy cabbage or kale instead of green cabbage for a slightly different crunch and flavor.
  • Zesty Upgrade: Incorporate lemon zest into your dressing for an added brightness that pairs beautifully with the sweet notes.
  • Herby Freshness: Mix in fresh herbs like cilantro or dill instead of parsley for a fresh flavor twist that changes the dish’s profile.

If you’re hungry for more delicious combinations, give my Garlic Parmesan Roasted a try, or explore a sweet treat with the delightful Roasted Apple Bread. Enjoy building your unique version of this comforting dish!

How to Store and Freeze Spiced Chickpeas & Rice

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. This keeps your Spiced Chickpeas & Rice fresh while retaining its delicious flavors.

Freezer: Freeze portions in airtight containers for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm in the microwave or on the stovetop.

Reheating: To reheat, add a splash of vegetable stock or water to revive the rice and chickpeas, keeping them moist and flavorful.

Dressing Storage: Keep the sweet mustard dressing in a separate jar in the fridge for up to a week. Shake well before using to reinvigorate the flavors.

Spiced Chickpeas & Rice with Roasted Cabbage Recipe FAQs

What type of chickpeas should I use?
You can use either canned chickpeas or cooked dried ones for this recipe. Canned chickpeas are convenient and already cooked, saving you time! If you choose dried chickpeas, soak them overnight and then cook until tender before using, which generally takes about 1-2 hours.

How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. This will keep your Spiced Chickpeas & Rice fresh and tasting delicious. Make sure to let it cool before sealing it up to maintain optimal flavor!

Can I freeze the dish?
Absolutely! You can freeze portions of the Spiced Chickpeas & Rice in airtight containers for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw overnight in the fridge. Warm it up gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of vegetable stock or water to keep it moist.

What if my roasted cabbage burns?
To prevent burning, keep an eye on your cabbage as it roasts. Check it around the 15-minute mark and flip it to ensure even cooking. If you notice it starting to brown too quickly, you can lower the oven temperature slightly or cover it loosely with foil.

Is this recipe suitable for people with allergies?
This recipe is vegan and gluten-free, making it suitable for many dietary considerations. However, if you’re preparing this for someone with specific allergies, be cautious with the mustard and vegan mayonnaise, as they may contain allergens like soy or mustard seeds.

Can I adjust the spiciness of the dressing?
Certainly! You can adjust the sweetness of the sweet mustard dressing according to your personal taste. Try adding more maple syrup for sweetness or cutting back if you prefer a tangier flavor. Don’t hesitate to taste as you go!

Spiced Chickpeas & Rice with Roasted Cabbage

Spiced Chickpeas & Rice with Roasted Cabbage Bliss

Enjoy a cozy meal of Spiced Chickpeas & Rice with Roasted Cabbage in under 40 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights!
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Gluten-Free, Vegan
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

Spice Blend
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder Adds savory depth; substitute with fresh minced garlic for a stronger flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon Onion Powder Provides a subtle sweetness; can be replaced with fresh onions.
  • 1 teaspoon Paprika Contributes smokiness and color; smoked paprika can give an additional flavor twist.
  • 1 teaspoon Dried Basil Adds aromatic herbal notes; oregano can be used as a substitute.
  • 1 teaspoon Sumac Offers tanginess; substitute lemon zest if it’s unavailable.
Cabbage and Base
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Used for roasting and dressing; avocado oil can serve as an alternative.
  • 4 cups Green Cabbage Provides crunch and fiber; can be replaced with savoy cabbage or kale.
  • 1 medium Yellow Onion Adds sweetness when sautéed; shallots can be used as a substitute.
  • 2 cloves Garlic Fresh flavor component; feel free to increase for a stronger garlic touch.
  • 1 cup Jasmine Rice Fluffy and fragrant base for the dish; substitute with basmati or brown rice, adjusting cooking time as needed.
  • 1 can Chickpeas A great protein source; canned or cooked dried are both acceptable.
  • 2 cups Vegetable Stock Enhances flavor; use water for a lower-calorie option or homemade vegetable broth for extra depth.
Dressing
  • 1/4 cup Chopped Fresh Parsley Optional garnish for freshness; cilantro can substitute for a different flavor profile.
  • 1/4 cup Toasted Sliced Almonds Optional topping for crunch; crushed walnuts or sunflower seeds can be alternatives.
  • 1/2 cup Vegan Mayonnaise Adds creaminess to dressing; blended avocado works well as a substitute.
  • 2 tablespoons Apple Cider Vinegar Provides acidity; white wine vinegar is a possible replacement.
  • 1 tablespoon Lemon Juice Adds brightness to the dressing; you can omit if using vinegar.
  • 1 tablespoon Maple Syrup Sweetens the dressing; agave syrup can be a similar substitute.
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon Mustard Adds tanginess; yellow mustard can be simpler if preferred.
  • 1 teaspoon Yellow Mustard Provides a milder mustard flavor; it can be omitted for less mustard taste.
  • 1 teaspoon Grainy Mustard Offers texture and depth; can be omitted if necessary or replaced with another mustard type.
  • 1 teaspoon Vegan Worcestershire Sauce Adds umami; coconut aminos can be substituted if needed.

Equipment

  • Large Skillet
  • Baking Sheet
  • Sealed jar

Method
 

Preparation Steps
  1. In a small bowl, combine garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, dried basil, and sumac to create your flavorful spice blend. Mix well until all spices are evenly distributed.
  2. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Chop the green cabbage into bite-sized pieces, then toss with olive oil and half of the spice blend, adding a pinch of salt and pepper for seasoning. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for about 20-40 minutes.
  3. In a large skillet, heat the remaining olive oil over medium heat. Add diced yellow onion and sauté for about 7-8 minutes until soft and translucent.
  4. Add minced garlic and the remaining spice blend to the skillet. Stir for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to let the garlic burn.
  5. Add the jasmine rice and chickpeas to the skillet with the onion mixture. Pour in vegetable stock, stir to combine, then bring to a boil, reduce to a simmer, cover and cook for about 25 minutes.
  6. In a sealed jar, combine olive oil, vegan mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, lemon juice, maple syrup, Dijon, yellow, and grainy mustard. Season and shake until well combined.
  7. Once the rice is fluffy, mix in chopped parsley, fluff with a fork, serve hot topped with roasted cabbage, toasted almonds, and dressing.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowlCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 12gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gSodium: 500mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 10gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 80mgIron: 3mg

Notes

For best results, keep an eye on the roasting cabbage, toast your almonds, and adjust the dressing sweetness to taste. Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days, and freeze portions for up to 3 months.

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