Rice is a staple ingredient in many kitchens around the world, beloved for its versatility and ability to complement countless dishes. For those following a vegan lifestyle or simply seeking healthy, plant-based meal ideas, easy vegan rice recipes are a fantastic way to enjoy comforting and nutritious meals without much hassle.
Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned cook, these recipes are designed to be straightforward, packed with vibrant flavors, and adaptable to whatever ingredients you have on hand.
In this post, we’ll explore simple yet delicious vegan rice recipes that you can whip up quickly for lunch, dinner, or even meal prep. From colorful stir-fries to hearty one-pot dishes, these recipes emphasize fresh vegetables, aromatic spices, and wholesome ingredients that make every bite satisfying.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These vegan rice recipes are perfect for busy weeknights and lazy weekends alike. They require minimal ingredients, making them budget-friendly and easy to customize based on what’s in your pantry or fridge.
You’ll appreciate how quick they come together, without sacrificing flavor or nutrition.
Rice is naturally gluten-free, rich in carbohydrates for energy, and pairs beautifully with a wide variety of plant-based proteins and vegetables. These recipes embrace whole foods and simple cooking techniques, ensuring that each dish is wholesome and nourishing.
Plus, these recipes are great for batch cooking and storing, so you can enjoy delicious meals throughout the week with minimal effort. For more inspiration on easy vegan meals, check out our Vegan Slow Cooker Recipe for Easy, Delicious Meals and Vegan Flour Tortilla Recipe Easy, Soft, and Homemade.
Ingredients
Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
---|---|---|
Long grain white or brown rice | 1 cup | Rinsed thoroughly |
Vegetable broth | 2 cups | For cooking the rice |
Olive oil | 2 tablespoons | For sautéing |
Onion | 1 medium, diced | Yellow or white onion works well |
Garlic cloves | 3, minced | Fresh for best flavor |
Bell peppers | 1 cup, diced | Any color |
Carrot | 1 medium, grated or diced | Optional but adds sweetness |
Frozen peas | ½ cup | Adds texture and color |
Green onions | 2, sliced | For garnish |
Soy sauce or tamari | 2 tablespoons | Use tamari for gluten-free option |
Ground black pepper | To taste | Freshly ground preferred |
Salt | To taste | Adjust based on broth and soy sauce saltiness |
Fresh cilantro or parsley | 2 tablespoons, chopped | For garnish and fresh flavor |
Equipment
- Medium saucepan with lid – for cooking rice
- Large skillet or wok – for sautéing vegetables and mixing rice
- Sharp knife – chopping vegetables
- Cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon or spatula – for stirring
- Fine mesh strainer – for rinsing rice
Instructions
- Rinse the rice: Place the rice in a fine mesh strainer and rinse under cold running water for 1-2 minutes until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch and prevents the rice from becoming sticky.
- Cook the rice: In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed rice and 2 cups of vegetable broth. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes (white rice) or 40-45 minutes (brown rice) until the liquid is absorbed and rice is tender. Remove from heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes.
- Prepare the vegetables: While the rice cooks, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent.
- Add garlic and vegetables: Stir in the minced garlic, diced bell peppers, and grated carrot. Cook for 5-6 minutes until the vegetables are tender but still vibrant.
- Mix in peas and cooked rice: Add the frozen peas directly to the skillet and cook for another 2 minutes. Then, add the cooked rice to the skillet and stir well to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Season the rice: Pour in 2 tablespoons of soy sauce or tamari, and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Stir continuously for 2-3 minutes to allow flavors to meld and the rice to heat through.
- Finish and garnish: Remove the skillet from heat. Sprinkle chopped fresh cilantro or parsley and sliced green onions over the rice for a bright, fresh finish.
- Serve immediately: Enjoy the vegan rice as a satisfying main dish or as a side to complement other meals.
Tips & Variations
“Cooking perfect vegan rice dishes is all about balancing flavors and textures. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different veggies or spices to make these recipes your own!”
- Use different rice types: Try basmati or jasmine rice for aromatic variations, or black rice for a nutrient boost.
- Add plant-based protein: Toss in cooked chickpeas, tofu cubes, or tempeh to make the dish more filling.
- Spice it up: Add crushed red pepper flakes, curry powder, or smoked paprika for extra flavor layers.
- Use fresh herbs: Basil, mint, or dill can provide a unique twist depending on the cuisine you want to replicate.
- Try a one-pot method: For a quick meal, sauté the vegetables first, then add rice and broth directly to the skillet, cover, and simmer until cooked.
- For a creamy touch: Stir in a splash of coconut milk or a dollop of tahini after cooking.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
---|---|
Calories | 310 kcal |
Carbohydrates | 58 g |
Protein | 7 g |
Fat | 7 g |
Fiber | 4 g |
Sodium | 600 mg (varies with soy sauce) |
Vitamin A | 25% DV |
Vitamin C | 40% DV |
Serving Suggestions
This vegan rice recipe is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of dishes. Serve it alongside steamed or roasted vegetables for a wholesome meal, or add it as a side to your favorite vegan curries or stews.
For a more festive spread, try pairing it with our Vegan Cuban Recipes: Delicious Plant-Based Island Flavor or the Veggie Quesadilla Recipe Indian Style Easy & Delicious for a flavorful, global-inspired meal.
You can also enjoy this rice as a filling for wraps using our Vegan Flour Tortilla Recipe Easy, Soft, and Homemade. It makes for a quick, satisfying lunch or picnic option.
Conclusion
Easy vegan rice recipes are a fantastic way to bring wholesome, delicious, and plant-based meals to your table with minimal effort. These dishes are adaptable, budget-friendly, and packed with vibrant flavors and textures that make every bite enjoyable.
Whether you’re cooking for yourself, family, or friends, these recipes will quickly become staples in your vegan cooking repertoire.
With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create meals that satisfy your cravings and nourish your body. Experiment with different vegetables, spices, and protein additions to keep things exciting.
Don’t forget to explore other vegan recipes on our site to keep your menu fresh and inspiring!
📖 Recipe Card: Easy Vegan Rice Bowl
Description: A simple and flavorful vegan rice recipe perfect for a quick meal. Packed with vegetables and plant-based protein for a nutritious dish.
Prep Time: PT10M
Cook Time: PT20M
Total Time: PT30M
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup jasmine rice
- 2 cups water
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 medium carrot, sliced
- 1 cup cooked chickpeas
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 green onions, sliced
Instructions
- Rinse the rice under cold water.
- Combine rice and water in a pot and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes.
- Heat olive oil in a pan and sauté onion and garlic until translucent.
- Add broccoli and carrot, cook for 5 minutes until tender.
- Stir in chickpeas, soy sauce, cumin, salt, and pepper.
- Mix cooked rice into the vegetable mixture and heat through.
- Garnish with sliced green onions and serve warm.
Nutrition: Calories: 350 kcal | Protein: 12 g | Fat: 7 g | Carbs: 60 g
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