Trying to make healthier food choices for the family dog but don’t know where to start? This chickpea cauliflower bowl is an easy and nutritious homemade option that even picky pups won’t turn their noses up at. It’s packed with plant-based goodness and can be made in just a short amount of time with a few basic ingredients.
This meal is especially helpful for anyone looking to incorporate more variety into their dog’s diet — and yes, it’s completely meat-free but still filling and full of protein. It’s also great for pups with sensitivities, and chances are, most of these ingredients are already sitting in the kitchen.
So whether it’s a full switch to homemade dog food or just a fun new recipe to add to the weekly rotation, this one’s worth trying.
What You’ll Need
- 1 can (8.8 oz or 254g) of chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1¾ cups (10.5 oz or 295g) of hemp hearts
- 1 cup (5.65 oz or 170g) of green peas, fresh or frozen
- 3 cups (10.5 oz or 300g) of chopped cauliflower
- 1 tablespoon (0.5 oz or 14g) of safflower oil
- 1½ teaspoons (0.27 oz or 8g) of calcium carbonate (or ground eggshells)
- 3 cups (25.4 oz or 720g) of water
- ½ cup (3.0 oz or 57g) of Dog Child Essential Nutrient Mix
Pro Tips
- Start Slow – When switching up a dog’s diet, especially with something plant-based, mix a small amount of this meal into their regular food and work up from there. This helps avoid tummy issues and gives time to adjust.
- Mash or Blend for Texture – Some dogs do better with smoother textures, especially smaller breeds. A quick blend or mash makes it easier to digest and a lot more appealing for pups used to soft kibble or wet food.
- Cool it Down – Let the mixture cool completely before serving. Even a slight bit of steam can be too much for a dog’s sensitive mouth.
- Kid-Friendly Meal Prep – This is a fun recipe for kids to help with (with supervision of course). Tasks like rinsing chickpeas, measuring hemp hearts, or mashing up cooked cauliflower are simple ways to get them involved.
- Portion It Out – Store individual servings in small containers for the week. It takes one big prep session and turns it into several easy meals with zero weekday stress.
Tools You’ll Need
- Large pot
- Steamer basket or saucepan with lid
- Blender or potato masher (optional)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Mixing spoon
- Airtight containers for leftovers
Substitutions and Variations
- Chickpeas → Lentils, black beans, or white beans can be used instead.
- Hemp Hearts → Try ground flaxseed or chia seeds if needed.
- Green Peas → Chopped carrots or green beans make good swaps.
- Safflower Oil → Olive oil or coconut oil works just as well.
- Nutrient Mix → If not using Dog Child’s mix, speak with a vet for safe nutrient alternatives to maintain balance.
Make Ahead Tips
- Prep larger batches and freeze them in small containers for up to a month. Just thaw in the fridge the night before use.
- Chop and store cauliflower and peas ahead of time to cut down prep when it’s time to cook.
How to Make It
- Steam the cauliflower until soft. If using fresh peas, steam those too. Frozen peas can be thawed and tossed in without extra cooking.
- Add everything (steamed cauliflower, peas, chickpeas, hemp hearts, safflower oil, calcium carbonate, and water) to a large pot.
- Simmer on low for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Everything should be soft and well blended.
- Stir in the nutrient mix once removed from heat. Let it fully incorporate.
- Cool completely before serving. The bowl should be room temperature and comfortable for dogs to eat.
Nutrition Snapshot (Per Serving – Approximate)
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 18g
- Fat: 15g
- Carbs: 30g
- Fiber: 8g
- Calcium: 200mg
- Iron: 3mg
Leftovers and Storage
- Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days in an airtight container.
- Freeze extra portions for up to a month. Just thaw overnight and serve chilled or at room temp.
- Avoid microwaving to heat. If needed, warm gently and make sure it’s not hot before serving.
FAQs
- Can this be served to puppies? Yes, but portions should be adjusted for their size and stage of development. It’s always best to check in with a vet before making diet changes for growing pups.
- Is this recipe safe for dogs with allergies? This bowl avoids common allergens like wheat and soy, but every dog is different. Always check for specific sensitivities first.
- Can meat be added? Definitely. Cooked chicken, turkey, or even beef can be added in small amounts for extra protein.
- Is the nutrient mix required? Highly recommended. It helps ensure the meal is nutritionally complete, especially when skipping animal products.
Ready to Give It a Try?
This chickpea cauliflower bowl is a thoughtful way to nourish dogs with something fresh, plant-based, and homemade. It’s quick, easy to store, and a great alternative to traditional dog food. Try it out and feel free to leave a comment sharing how it went or if any questions came up while making it!
Looking for more simple pet-friendly recipes? There’s more to come, so keep an eye out.