Hi! Welcome to the Hangry Chickpea. My name is Eliza, and I can’t wait to show you how to make your favorite foods with plants. Here, you’ll find recipes that fit into your life – they’re fast, easy, and taste as good as the meat & dairy versions (or very close).
My recipes are simple and laid-back, inspired by coastal life. You’ll find everything from pre-surf smoothie bowls, to hearty dinners, and cocktails perfect for unwinding from a long day on the water (or at the office). We keep it casual with the simple, “no shirt, no shoes, no problem” attitude. Missing an ingredient? No worries, we’ll work with what you have.
With a little creativity and an open mind, you’ll find that plant-based eating is NOT about what you can’t have. It’s actually the opposite. A few years ago, I’d never heard of a jackfruit, and hardly ever created homemade sauces. There’s almost always a way to create a vegan spin on a dish, and it doesn’t have to involve 34 extra steps & a pantry full of special ingredients.
Why plant-based?
One of the easiest ways to help the planet is to consume less or altogether stop eating animal products. I also know how hard it is to start eating more plant-based meals, especially if you’re new to cooking or a vegan diet. So many people have a short-list of foods they feel they “can’t” give up – for some its desserts like cookies and cupcakes, for others its cheese and, well, cheese.
I’ll help you whip up your favorite meals in no time, sans eggs, meat, and dairy. You might notice your body feels better after eating a meal without animal products, even if it’s on the heartier side.
There are also major health benefits to eating more plants, and if done properly, there are no cons. Don’t worry about getting enough protein – there’s a reason this is called the HANGRY Chickpea. Your girl needs her protein, and if it’s not filling, it doesn’t make the blog, end of story.
Do I have to be vegan to enjoy your recipes?
ABSOLUTELY NOT! All eaters with an open mind are welcome here. In fact, you can make my day by saying the words “you wouldn’t know this is vegan.” If you come away from The Hangry Chickpea inspired to eat more plants, I’m happy.
But enough about my philosophy on plant-based cooking.
More about us
The Hangry Chickpea began in February 2019 as a much-needed creative outlet. I love sharing my recipes, and thinking creatively about new ways to do things in the kitchen. Being in the kitchen is about going with the flow, and working with what you have.
We’ve been mostly vegan for nearly 6 (?!?!) years now. From meal prep to date nights, cookies and carrot cakes to Thanksgiving dinners, we’ve seen it all, and love sharing what we’ve learned.
Eliza aka The Hangry Chickpea aka Goddess of the Kitchen aka Snack Queen
Talents: cooking & eating, sailboat racing, playing the piano, dog petting
Hobbies: surfing, yoga, running, travel, skiing (water and snow), geeking out over tropical marine organisms, deciphering Taylor Swift’s latest cryptic messages
Erick aka The Not-So-Chunky Monkey or Chief Taste Tester
Talents: taste testing, making friends with everyone, being a dog dad, avoiding the camera, moral support
Hobbies: sailing, skiing, free diving, watching woodworking videos
Apollo
Talents: catching frisbees, skinny dipping, crumb vacuuming, making the hoomans give me treats
Hobbies: watching mom and dad cook, counter-surfing, sink-fishing, chewing on toys, cuddling