1 1/2cupscooked chickpeas (1 14.5-ounce can, drained and rinsed)
salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
optional: fresh, chopped herbs and/or vegan parmesan cheese, for topping
Instructions
Prepare the mashed potatoes as directed in here. Cover the potatoes to keep them warm as you hold them for serving.
To make the creamy chickpeas & mushrooms, heat the oil or broth in a large, roomy skillet (preferably non-stick) over medium low heat. Add the shallots. Cook for 2 minutes, or until the shallots are clear. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute more, stirring frequently. Add the mushrooms, 1/4 cup vegetable broth, and the tamari. Cook, stirring often, until the mushrooms have released all of their juices and are completely tender (about 6-8 minutes).
Add the remaining broth and cashew cream to the skillet. Stir well. When the liquid is heated through, transfer a ladle of it (about 1/3-1/2 cup) to a small bowl and whisk it together with your flour to create a slurry. When the slurry is smooth and has no visible lumps, pour it back into your skillet and stir everything well. Continue to cook the whole mixture for a minute or two, until the sauce has thickened. Then, stir in the dried thyme and rosemary, lemon, and chickpeas. Taste and add salt and freshly ground pepper as needed.
To serve, divide the mashed potatoes onto plates (about 1 heaping cup per person) and top with a generous spoonful of the chickpea and mushroom mixture. Garnish with fresh herbs and/or vegan parmesan cheese, if you like. Enjoy!
Notes
As a substitute for cashew cream, you can use unsweetened vegan cashew or almond yogurt or full-fat coconut milk from the can.