Golden Chickpea Scramble Bowl (Vegan, Soy-Free, Gluten-Free)

Protein is all the rage at the moment with a recommended per meal protein content of 30g per! But you might be wondering how you can achieve that at breakfast time, especially with egg prices where they are. If you are soy free that adds another layer of complexity, goodbye tofu scramble. Well we've got a really great vegan option for you, the Chickpea Scramble. A vegan, soy-free and high protein breakfast option. 

It can be hard to find soy-free, egg-free breakfast options that are exciting + meet your protein needs. Sometimes you wake up and just aren't into the same old high protein oatmeal dish. Thats where the chickpea scramble comes in. A great alternative for breakfast that adds a new item you may never have made before. Excitement and protein, win win. 

Why Chickpeas Make A Great Breakfast Protein Source

You might not think chickpeas, mmm, let's have that for breakfast. When you think of chickpeas it may be more in hummus form or crispy chickpeas on top of a salad, but for breakfast? Yes, this delicious snack is one that is super versatile. With nearly 3g of protein per tablespoon of chickpeas, this little legume packs a powerful protein punch. Not to mention you'll get nearly the equivalent amount of fiber per serving.

Macronutrients aside chickpeas also have antioxidants called polyphenols that help the body protect against oxidative damage. The contain a healthy dose of prebiotic fiber assisting in promoting a healthy gut. Naturally anti-inflammatory, gut healthy and all that protein; this legume is a must add to your daily consumption. If you are looking for other ways to use food for a healthy gut check out the best juice cleanses for gut health.

The Benefits of the Scramble Bowl

Just like when constructing any meal you can't only be thinking of protein as you'll be missing out on your other macronutrients. This Chickpea Scramble Bowl we've put together has balanced macronutrients to start of your day by feeding your body and keep your energy levels up. The protein is coming from the mighty chickpea, while the fat comes from the creamy avocado, and complex carbs from the sweet potatoes. The greens are added for their many health benefits and as CEO of Organic Pharmer, Michael Petronaci says "where are the greens? if you aren't having greens at breakfast you are missing out on a crucial ingredient in your morning routine." 

If you are following an anti-inflammatory diet it is important to limit your intake of eggs and soy as they may be inflammatory in the body when consumed in excess and may be a sensitivity or allergen for some. Choosing foods that are free of gluten, dairy, corn, soy and egg is preferred especially when in the healing phase or cleansing phase of your cycle. This chickpea scramble bowl is free of all of those things making it easy to stick to your diet and an elimination diet. 

How to Serve This Dish

Once you've tried the Chickpea Scramble Bowl we guarantee it will be in your weekly rotation. To switch it up you can change out the veggies, add some gluten free toast or serve with a side of quinoa. Even try out adding a drizzle of tahini or some dairy-free yogurt for extra creaminess. 

Want to up your anti-inflammatory game? Enjoy it with Organic Pharmer's Coconut Golden Milk. Without further adieu I give you the Chickpea Scramble Bowl Recipe. 

RECIPE: Golden Chickpea Scramble Bowl (Vegan, Soy-Free, Gluten-Free)

What You'll Need (Serves 2):

For the Chickpea Scramble:

• 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 1/4 cup unsweetened coconut yogurt (adds creaminess)
• 1/4 cup nutritional yeast (for umami and B vitamins)
• 1/2 tsp turmeric powder (anti-inflammatory + golden color)
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• 1/4 tsp black salt (kala namak, optional for eggy flavor)
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1-2 tbsp plant-based milk (almond or coconut)

For the Roasted Sweet Potatoes:

• 1 medium sweet potato, diced
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper

For the Sautéed Greens:

• 2 cups baby spinach or kale
• 1 tsp olive oil
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• Pinch of salt and pepper

Toppings (Optional but Recommended):

• 1 tbsp hemp seeds (extra protein + omega-3s)
• 1/4 avocado, sliced
• 1 tbsp pumpkin seeds
• Fresh cilantro or parsley

How to make it:

1. Roast the Sweet Potatoes
   
   1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
   2. Toss diced sweet potatoes with olive oil, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
   3. Spread them on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
      
2. Prepare the Chickpea Scramble
   
   1. In a bowl, mash chickpeas with a fork, leaving some chunks for texture.
   2. Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
   3. Add mashed chickpeas, turmeric, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black salt, and black pepper. Stir well.
   4. Stir in coconut yogurt and plant-based milk to make it creamy.
   5. Cook for 3-5 minutes until heated through. Add lemon juice and adjust seasoning.
      
3. Sauté the Greens
   1. Heat 1 tsp olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
   2. Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds.
   3. Toss in spinach or kale and cook for 1-2 minutes until wilted. Season with salt and pepper.
      
4.  Assemble the Bowl
   
   1. Serve the chickpea scramble in a bowl.
   2. Add roasted sweet potatoes and sautéed greens on the side.
   3. Top with avocado slices, hemp seeds, and pumpkin seeds.
   4.  Garnish with fresh herbs and enjoy!

Putting It Into Practice

Having a variety of plant based breakfasts that are high in protein is crucial for sticking to your healthy way of living. This Chickpea Scramble Bowl is a versatile substitute for the morning egg or tofu scramble. High in protein and fiber, hitting all the macronutrients thanks to the additions of other veggies and easy to make this breakfast recipe will be a signature in your house. This recipe is perfect for when you are coming off an Organic Pharmer Cleanse to continue the great benefits while on your cleanse. Want to checkout more of our anti-inflammatory recipes, head over to our blog and let us know how they are. 

About the Author

Michael Petronaci is the CEO of Organic Pharmer. With an undergrad in Biology and Chemistry he worked in finance, ran il Buco Group in Manhattan and now geeks out on all the food as medicine programs and products he helps to create at Organic Pharmer.