Best Vegan Beans and Rice Recipe for Easy Healthy Meals

Beans and rice is a timeless, comforting dish that transcends cultures and cuisines. This best vegan beans and rice recipe offers a flavorful, wholesome meal that’s easy to prepare, budget-friendly, and packs a punch of protein and fiber.

Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or just exploring plant-based meals, this recipe will become a staple in your kitchen. It combines perfectly cooked rice with savory beans and a medley of spices that awaken your taste buds and satisfy your hunger.

This dish is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it with your favorite herbs, vegetables, or hot sauce to suit your palate.

Plus, it’s ideal for meal prepping or feeding a crowd with minimal effort. Dive into this hearty vegan classic that promises warmth, nourishment, and vibrant flavors in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe shines because it balances nutrition with simplicity. Loaded with plant-based protein from beans and complex carbohydrates from rice, it keeps you energized and satiated.

The combination of spices and fresh aromatics gives it a rich, savory depth that’s far from boring.

It’s incredibly adaptable: swap black beans for kidney or pinto beans, add veggies like bell peppers or corn, or spice it up with jalapeños for a kick. It’s naturally gluten-free, dairy-free, and oil-light, making it a perfect choice for various dietary needs.

Best of all, it’s a one-pot wonder that comes together quickly, perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekend cooking sessions. If you love hearty, wholesome meals with minimal fuss, this vegan beans and rice recipe is a keeper.

Ingredients

• 1 cup long-grain white rice
• 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup vegetable broth
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional)
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Salt to taste
• Juice of 1 lime
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• Optional: diced bell peppers, jalapeños, or corn for added texture and flavor

Equipment

• Medium saucepan with lid
• Large skillet or sauté pan
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Colander (for rinsing beans)

Instructions

1. Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This helps remove excess starch and prevents the rice from becoming sticky.
2. Cook the rice: In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of water or vegetable broth to a boil. Add the rinsed rice and a pinch of salt. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and water is absorbed. Remove from heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes.
3. Sauté the aromatics: While the rice cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened.
4. Add garlic and spices: Stir in garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, and black pepper. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
5. Add the beans: Stir in the drained and rinsed black beans. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, allowing the beans to heat through and absorb the spices.
6. Combine rice and beans: Fluff the cooked rice with a fork and add it to the skillet with the beans. Stir well to combine and heat everything together for 2-3 minutes.
7. Finish with lime and cilantro: Remove from heat and stir in the lime juice and chopped cilantro. Adjust salt to taste.
8. Serve warm with your favorite toppings or sides.

Tips & Variations

“For extra depth, try sautéing diced bell peppers or adding a splash of soy sauce or vegan Worcestershire sauce to the beans.”

Feel free to swap black beans with kidney beans, pinto beans, or even chickpeas for a different texture and taste. If you prefer brown rice, increase the cooking time and water accordingly.

Want a smoky flavor? Add a chipotle pepper in adobo or a few dashes of liquid smoke.

For a spicy kick, toss in chopped fresh jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes.

If you want to bulk up the dish, stir in corn kernels, diced tomatoes, or sautéed mushrooms. This recipe also freezes well, making it perfect for meal prep.

For a creamy twist, top with sliced avocado or a dollop of vegan sour cream. You can also check out our Jamaican Minced Beef Recipes for more plant-based ideas or pair it with some fresh bread from our Marzipan Challah Recipe.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This vegan beans and rice recipe is incredibly versatile when it comes to serving. Enjoy it on its own for a hearty, filling meal or pair it with a crisp green salad for freshness.

Try topping it with sliced avocado, fresh salsa, or vegan cheese for extra richness. It also works beautifully as a filling for burritos, tacos, or stuffed peppers.

For a change of pace, serve it alongside some roasted vegetables or with a side of cornbread. If you love experimenting with flavors, check out our Kosher Sushi Salad Recipe for a light complement or warm up with our Lil Smokies Chili Recipe for more spicy inspiration.

Conclusion

This vegan beans and rice recipe is a wonderful example of how simple ingredients can come together to create something nourishing, delicious, and satisfying. It’s perfect for anyone looking to enjoy a plant-based meal without sacrificing flavor or convenience.

With just a handful of pantry staples and a few fresh ingredients, you can whip up this dish anytime for lunch, dinner, or meal prep. Its adaptability means you can make it your own, tailoring spice levels and add-ins to suit your mood or the season.

Give this recipe a try and you might just find your new go-to comfort food. And if you’re hungry for more, don’t miss our other recipes like the Magic Dough Recipe or the Lump Of Coal Recipe for some creative culinary fun.

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