Vegan Spanish Rice And Beans is a vibrant and satisfying dish that bursts with the lively flavors of Spain and Mexico. This plant-based recipe is a delicious way to enjoy a classic comfort food while adhering to a vegan diet. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions, you can create a flavorful and nutritious meal that will transport your taste buds to a sunny fiesta!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Flavorful and Aromatic: The combination of spices, herbs, and vegetables creates a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds.
- Easy to Make: With straightforward instructions and readily available ingredients, this recipe is suitable for cooks of all levels.
- Budget-Friendly: This recipe is a great way to create a delicious and satisfying meal without breaking the bank.
- Versatile: Serve it as a main course, a side dish, or even as a filling for burritos or tacos.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup long-grain rice, rinsed
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish
Ingredients for vegan Spanish rice and beans.
Let’s Get Cooking!
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Sauté the Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until softened.
“Sautéing the onions and peppers first helps to develop their natural sweetness and adds depth of flavor to the dish,” says renowned vegan chef, Maria Garcia. “Don’t rush this step – allow the vegetables to caramelize slightly for optimal flavor.”
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Toast the Rice: Stir in the minced garlic, rinsed rice, smoked paprika, ground cumin, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant, stirring constantly to prevent sticking.
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Add the Liquids: Pour in the diced tomatoes, black beans, and vegetable broth. Season generously with salt and pepper.
Vegan Spanish rice and beans simmering on a stovetop.
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Simmer and Relax: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is cooked through and the liquid is absorbed.
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Fluff and Serve: Once cooked, remove the pot from the heat and let it stand, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork and serve garnished with fresh cilantro.
Tips for the Perfect Vegan Spanish Rice and Beans
- Rinse the Rice: Rinsing the rice before cooking helps to remove excess starch, resulting in fluffier rice.
- Don’t Overcook the Rice: Overcooked rice can become mushy. Keep an eye on the cooking time and follow the package instructions for best results.
- Adjust the Spice Level: Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to your liking. For a milder flavor, omit it altogether.
- Get Creative with Toppings: Add your favorite toppings such as sliced avocado, salsa, vegan sour cream, or fresh lime juice.
A bowl of vegan Spanish rice and beans garnished with cilantro.
FAQs
- Can I use brown rice instead of white rice? Absolutely! Brown rice can be used as a substitute for white rice. Keep in mind that brown rice has a longer cooking time, so you may need to adjust the amount of liquid and cooking time accordingly.
- Can I make this recipe ahead of time? Yes, you can make this recipe ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through.
- What can I serve with vegan Spanish rice and beans? This dish pairs well with a variety of sides, such as stuffed poblano peppers vegan, grilled vegetables, or a simple green salad.
A Fiesta of Flavor
This vegan Spanish rice and beans recipe is a celebration of flavor and simplicity. It’s a delicious and satisfying meal that is sure to become a new family favorite. So gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a taste of Spain!
