Chickpea Flour White Sauce Recipe


A white sauce is often the go-to option when adding a touch of creaminess to your dishes. However, we have the perfect solution if you’re looking for a dairy-free alternative that doesn’t compromise on taste and texture. 

In this article, we’ll explore a tantalizing Chickpea Flour White Sauce recipe that is not only creamy and flavorful but also suitable for those following a plant-based or gluten-free diet. Get ready to elevate your culinary creations with this delicious and versatile sauce!

Ingredients you’ll Need:

To prepare this luscious Chickpea Flour White Sauce, you’ll need the following ingredients:

  • 1/4 cup chickpea flour: Chickpea flour, also known as gram flour or besan, forms the base of this sauce. It adds a unique nutty flavor and helps thicken the sauce.
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil: Olive oil provides a rich and smooth texture to the sauce while adding a hint of flavor.
  • 2 cups vegetable broth: Vegetable broth serves as the liquid base for the sauce and adds depth of flavor.
  • 1 cup unsweetened plant-based milk: Plant-based milk, such as almond milk or soy milk, helps create a creamy consistency.
  • 1 teaspoon nutritional yeast: Nutritional yeast contributes a subtle cheesy flavor to the sauce, enhancing its overall taste.
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Garlic powder adds a savory note and complements the other flavors in the sauce.
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder: Onion powder provides a mild onion flavor and enhances the overall complexity of the sauce.
  • Salt and pepper to taste: Season with salt and pepper to your preference, adjusting the flavors as needed.

Equipment Needed:

  • Saucepan: A saucepan is essential for preparing the Chickpea Flour White Sauce. It provides a suitable vessel for cooking and thickening the sauce over the stovetop.
  • Whisk: A whisk is a handy tool for stirring and combining the ingredients in the saucepan. It helps prevent lumps from forming and ensures a smooth and creamy consistency.
  • Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are crucial for the success of any recipe. Measuring cups and spoons are necessary to measure the precise amounts of chickpea flour, olive oil, vegetable broth, plant-based milk, and other ingredients.
  • Wooden spoon or spatula: A wooden spoon or spatula is useful for stirring the sauce as it cooks and preventing it from sticking to the bottom of the saucepan. It ensures even heat distribution and helps maintain the desired texture of the sauce.

Step-by-Step Guide To Making Chicken Flour White Sauce

Follow these step-by-step instructions to create a delectable Chickpea Flour White Sauce:

Step 1: Heat the Olive Oil

Heat the olive oil over medium heat in a medium-sized saucepan until it shimmers.

Step 2: Add the Chickpea Flour

Add the chickpea flour to the saucepan and whisk it into the olive oil until well combined. Continue cooking for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, until the flour turns golden brown. This process helps cook off any raw flavor from the flour.

Step 3: Incorporate the Vegetable Broth

Gradually pour the vegetable broth into the saucepan while whisking continuously. This prevents lumps from forming. Continue whisking until the mixture is smooth and thickened.

Step 4: Add the Plant-Based Milk

Pour the plant-based milk into the saucepan, whisking continuously to combine it with the broth and flour mixture. Continue cooking over medium heat until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes.

Step 5: Season and Flavor the Sauce

Stir in the nutritional yeast, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper, adjusting the seasonings according to your preferences. Continue cooking for an additional minute to allow the flavors to meld together.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Remove the Chickpea Flour White Sauce from the heat once the Chickpea Flour White Sauce has reached your desired consistency. Serve it immediately as a delectable topping for pasta, roasted vegetables, or any dish that calls for a creamy and flavorful sauce.

Tips & Tricks for the Perfect Chicken Flour White Sauce 

  • For a thicker sauce, you can increase the amount of chickpea flour slightly.
  • Experiment with different spices and herbs to customize the flavor of your sauce. Paprika, dried herbs like thyme or oregano, or a pinch of cayenne pepper can add an extra kick.
  • If you prefer a smoother texture, use an immersion or regular blender to blend the sauce until silky and creamy.
  • Feel free to add sautéed onions, mushrooms, or other vegetables to the sauce to create a heartier version.

Nutritional Benefits of Chickpea Flour White Sauce Recipe

The Chickpea Flour White Sauce is a flavorful and creamy addition to your dishes and offers several nutritional benefits. 

By using chickpea flour as the base ingredient, this sauce provides a healthier alternative to traditional white sauces that are often high in saturated fat and cholesterol. Let’s explore the nutritional benefits of this recipe:

  • Rich in Protein: Chickpea flour is a great source of plant-based protein. It contains approximately 6 grams of protein per 1/4 cup serving. Protein is essential for building and repairing tissues, supporting muscle health, and promoting satiety.
  • High in Fiber: Chickpea flour is also rich in dietary fiber. Fiber aids digestion, helps maintain bowel regularity, and gives a feeling of fullness. It can also support healthy blood sugar levels and promote heart health. Adding Chickpea Flour White Sauce to your meals can help increase your fiber intake.
  • Packed with Essential Nutrients: Chickpea flour is a good source of essential vitamins and minerals. It contains significant amounts of folate, iron, magnesium, and zinc. Folate is crucial for cell growth and development, iron supports oxygen transportation in the body, magnesium plays a role in various biochemical reactions, and zinc is essential for immune function and wound healing.
  • Lower in Fat: Compared to traditional white sauces made with heavy cream or butter, Chickpea Flour White Sauce is lower in fat. You can achieve a creamy texture without the excessive saturated fat content by using olive oil or a small amount of plant-based oil in the recipe. Lower fat intake can help maintain a healthy weight and reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases.
  • Gluten-Free Option: For individuals following a gluten-free diet or those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease, chickpea flour offers a safe alternative to wheat-based flour. It allows them to enjoy a creamy white sauce without compromising their dietary restrictions.

Chickpea Flour White Sauce Is Best Served With?

  • Pasta and Lasagna: Chickpea flour white sauce is a fantastic substitute for traditional béchamel sauce in pasta dishes and lasagnas. Its creamy consistency blends seamlessly with pasta, whether linguine, penne, or spaghetti. You can use it as a base for your favorite pasta recipes or toss it with cooked noodles for a quick and satisfying meal.
  • Vegetable Gratin: Elevate the flavor of your vegetable gratin by incorporating chickpea flour white sauce. The sauce adds richness and creaminess to the dish, while its nutty undertones complement the earthy flavors of roasted vegetables such as cauliflower, broccoli, and zucchini.
  • Casseroles and Baked Dishes: Chickpea flour white sauce brings a delightful twist to casseroles and baked dishes. Whether making a hearty shepherd’s pie or a cheesy baked cauliflower dish, this sauce provides a flavorful and wholesome alternative to traditional dairy-based sauces.
  • Dips and Spreads: Whip up a delectable dip or spread by incorporating chickpea flour white sauce as a base. Add herbs, spices, or roasted garlic to create a savory dip for your favorite snacks, chips, or crudités. You can also use it as a sandwich spread or as a filling for wraps and quesadillas.
  • Indian Curries: The nutty flavor of chickpea flour white sauce pairs exceptionally well with Indian curries. Add it to creamy tomato-based curries like butter chicken or paneer tikka masala for a unique twist. The sauce adds a velvety texture and imparts a rich taste that blends beautifully with the aromatic spices used in Indian cuisine.

Storage Tips for Chickpea Flour White Sauce

Whether you use it as a base for pasta dishes, a topping for vegetables, or a dip for your favorite snacks, there’s no denying its deliciousness. But what happens when you make a big batch and have leftovers?

  • Freezing: Chickpea flour white sauce freezes exceptionally well, allowing you to extend its shelf life. Pour the sauce into ice cube trays or small freezer-safe containers, leaving a bit of headspace to accommodate expansion. Once frozen, transfer the cubes or containers into a freezer bag for better organization.
  • Thawing and Reheating: When using your frozen sauce, gently thaw it in the refrigerator overnight or defrost it in the microwave on a low setting. To retain the sauce’s creamy consistency, heat it slowly over low to medium heat, stirring frequently. Add a small amount of water or plant-based milk to adjust the consistency.
  • Labeling: Avoid confusion by labeling your stored chickpea flour white sauce with the date of preparation. This simple step will help you keep track of its freshness and ensure you use the oldest sauce first.
  • Flavor Enhancements: If you’re storing a basic chickpea flour white sauce without added seasonings, consider customizing it with different flavor enhancements upon reheating. Add fresh herbs, garlic, nutritional yeast, or a splash of lemon juice to transform your sauce into a unique creation that complements your dish.
  • Shelf Life: While chickpea flour white sauce can last up to 4-5 days when stored in the refrigerator, freezing extends its shelf life significantly. It can retain its quality for up to 3 months when properly stored in the freezer. However, for the best flavor and texture, try to consume it within the first month.

Chickpea Flour White Sauce Recipe

Chickpea flour white sauce is a delicious and gluten-free alternative to traditional white sauce. Made by combining chickpea flour, plant-based milk, and seasonings, it offers a creamy and flavorful base for various dishes. Whether used as a topping for pasta or a creamy base for casseroles, this versatile sauce is a healthy and tasty option for those with dietary restrictions.
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Course Condiment, Sauce
Cuisine Italian, Mediterranean
Servings 4
Calories 100 kcal

Equipment

  • Saucepan
  • Whisk
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Wooden spoon or spatula

Ingredients
  

  • 1/4 cup chickpea flour
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 cup unsweetened plant-based milk
  • 1 teaspoon nutritional yeast
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions
 

  • Heat the olive oil over medium heat in a medium-sized saucepan until it shimmers.
  • Add the chickpea flour to the saucepan and whisk it into the olive oil until well combined. Continue cooking for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, until the flour turns golden brown. This process helps cook off any raw flavor from the flour.
  • Gradually pour the vegetable broth into the saucepan while whisking continuously. This prevents lumps from forming. Continue whisking until the mixture is smooth and thickened.
  • Pour the plant-based milk into the saucepan, whisking continuously to combine it with the broth and flour mixture. Continue cooking over medium heat until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes.
  • Stir in the nutritional yeast, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper, adjusting the seasonings according to your preferences. Continue cooking for an additional minute to allow the flavors to meld together.
  • Remove the Chickpea Flour White Sauce from the heat once the Chickpea Flour White Sauce has reached your desired consistency. Serve it immediately as a delectable topping for pasta, roasted vegetables, or any dish that calls for a creamy and flavorful sauce.

Video

Keyword chickpea flour, Lentil pasta sauce, nutritional yeast, roasted vegetables

Conclusion

The versatility of this sauce cannot be overstated. It can be used in various dishes, from classic comfort foods like macaroni and cheese to creamy soups and casseroles. It can be easily customized with herbs, spices, or even a hint of garlic to suit your taste preferences. The options are truly endless.

Making the chickpea flour white sauce is simple, making it accessible to even novice cooks. Mastering this recipe opens the door to a world of culinary creativity and satisfies your cravings without compromising on flavor or nutrition.

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