Best Vegan Black Rice Recipes for Healthy Delicious Meals

Black rice, often called forbidden rice, is a nutrient-dense grain with a rich, nutty flavor and a striking deep purple-black hue that instantly elevates any dish. Whether you’re new to vegan cooking or a seasoned plant-based foodie, incorporating black rice into your meals offers both incredible taste and health benefits.

From hearty salads to flavorful stir-fries, black rice’s versatility makes it a pantry staple for anyone seeking delicious, wholesome vegan recipes.

In this post, you’ll discover some of the best vegan black rice recipes that are easy to prepare, vibrant in flavor, and packed with essential nutrients. Perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prepping, these dishes will showcase black rice in all its glory.

Ready to cook some mouthwatering meals? Let’s dive in!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Black rice is more than just visually stunning; it’s a powerhouse of antioxidants, fiber, and iron. Its naturally chewy texture and slightly sweet, nutty flavor make it an excellent base for a variety of vegan dishes.

Whether you crave a refreshing salad, a warming bowl, or a savory side, black rice adapts beautifully.

Choosing black rice in your vegan recipes means you’re treating your body to a wholesome, gluten-free grain that keeps you full and energized. Plus, its unique color and taste make your meals stand out on the table, impressing family and friends alike!

Ingredients

• 1 cup black rice
• 2 cups water or vegetable broth
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 cup cooked chickpeas
• 1 cup chopped kale or spinach
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Juice of 1 lemon
• Fresh herbs (cilantro or parsley), chopped for garnish

Equipment

• Medium saucepan with lid
• Large skillet or frying pan
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Colander or fine mesh strainer

Instructions

1. Rinse the black rice thoroughly under cold water using a colander to remove any impurities or excess starch. This helps prevent the rice from becoming sticky.
2. Cook the black rice: In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed rice and 2 cups of water or vegetable broth. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 30-35 minutes or until the rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
3. Fluff the cooked rice with a fork and set aside.
4. Prepare the vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent.
5. Add garlic and red bell pepper to the skillet and cook for another 3-5 minutes until softened.
6. Stir in the cooked chickpeas, kale or spinach, smoked paprika, and cumin. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until the greens are wilted and chickpeas are heated through.
7. Combine the cooked black rice with the vegetable mixture in the skillet. Season with salt, pepper, and lemon juice. Mix well and cook for an additional 2 minutes to blend flavors.
8. Remove from heat and garnish with fresh herbs before serving.

Tips & Variations

For fluffier rice, soak black rice for 30 minutes before cooking.

You can customize these recipes by adding your favorite veggies such as roasted sweet potatoes, mushrooms, or zucchini. Try swapping chickpeas with black beans or lentils for a different protein source.

For a spicy kick, add chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce.

Explore different flavor profiles by incorporating coconut milk and curry powder for a creamy black rice curry. Or try mixing in toasted nuts and dried fruits for a sweet and savory salad variation.

Black rice is incredibly flexible, so don’t hesitate to experiment!

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

Serve these black rice dishes as a hearty main or a vibrant side. Pair with grilled or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal, or add a fresh green salad to brighten the plate.

For extra protein, top with crispy tofu or tempeh.

Black rice also works wonderfully in vegan sushi bowls or stuffed peppers. If you enjoy international flavors, try pairing it with dishes like our Kosher Sushi Salad Recipe or incorporate it as a side with the Jamaican Minced Beef Recipes (vegan version).

Best Vegan Black Rice Recipes

Vegan Black Rice & Mango Salad

This refreshing salad balances the earthiness of black rice with juicy mango, crunchy cucumbers, and a zesty lime dressing.

• Ingredients: cooked black rice, diced mango, cucumber, red onion, cilantro, lime juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
• Instructions: Combine black rice with diced mango, cucumber, and finely chopped red onion. Whisk lime juice with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then toss with the salad. Garnish with cilantro.

Black Rice Buddha Bowl

A colorful bowl packed with black rice, roasted sweet potatoes, steamed broccoli, avocado slices, and creamy tahini dressing.

• Ingredients: black rice, sweet potatoes, broccoli, avocado, chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, garlic, water, salt.
• Instructions: Roast cubed sweet potatoes and steam broccoli. Layer black rice, veggies, and chickpeas in a bowl. Blend tahini, lemon juice, garlic, and water for dressing. Drizzle over bowl and serve.

Spicy Vegan Black Rice Stir-Fry

Quick and easy stir-fry with black rice, tofu, bell peppers, snap peas, and a savory soy-ginger sauce.

• Ingredients: cooked black rice, firm tofu, assorted bell peppers, snap peas, garlic, ginger, soy sauce, sesame oil, chili flakes.
• Instructions: Sauté garlic and ginger in sesame oil. Add tofu and veggies, stir-fry until cooked but still crisp. Stir in black rice and soy sauce, sprinkle with chili flakes, and heat through.

Creamy Coconut Black Rice Pudding

A comforting vegan dessert made with black rice simmered in coconut milk, sweetened with maple syrup and topped with toasted coconut flakes.

• Ingredients: black rice, coconut milk, maple syrup, vanilla extract, toasted coconut flakes.
• Instructions: Cook black rice in coconut milk with maple syrup and vanilla until creamy. Serve warm or chilled, topped with toasted coconut.

Black Rice Stuffed Bell Peppers

Bell peppers stuffed with seasoned black rice, black beans, corn, and diced tomatoes, baked to perfection.

• Ingredients: bell peppers, cooked black rice, black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, onion, garlic, cumin, chili powder.
• Instructions: Sauté onion and garlic, add spices, black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, and black rice. Stuff peppers with mixture and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 30 minutes.

For more delightful vegan recipes, check out our Leche De Pantera Recipe and the innovative Julie Marie Eats Recipes.

Conclusion

Black rice is truly a gem in the world of vegan cooking. Its unique taste, impressive nutritional profile, and stunning appearance make it an ideal ingredient for a wide range of recipes.

Whether you’re preparing a light salad, a nourishing bowl, or a comforting dessert, black rice brings depth and excitement to your vegan meals.

By experimenting with these recipes, you’ll discover just how versatile and delicious plant-based meals can be. Don’t hesitate to customize the dishes to your liking and incorporate seasonal vegetables or your favorite spices.

For even more culinary inspiration, explore other recipes like the Magic Dough Recipe or the sweet and savory Marzipan Challah Recipe. Embrace the magic of black rice and happy cooking!

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