Congris Recipe Vegetarian: Easy & Delicious Cuban Dish

Congris, a beloved traditional Cuban dish, is a hearty combination of rice and black beans cooked together to create a flavorful, comforting meal. This dish, also known as “Moros y Cristianos,” is a staple in Cuban households and is cherished for its rich taste and nutritional value.

While traditionally made with pork or other meats, this vegetarian version brings all the soul-satisfying flavors of the original but with a wholesome plant-based twist. Perfect for both busy weeknights and leisurely weekend dinners, vegetarian congris is easy to prepare and packed with protein and fiber, making it a fantastic option for anyone looking to enjoy a healthy, delicious meal without meat.

If you love dishes that are simple yet bursting with flavor, this vegetarian congris recipe will quickly become a favorite. Whether you’re a seasoned vegetarian or just exploring plant-based meals, this recipe offers a creamy texture and robust seasoning that celebrates Cuban culinary traditions.

Plus, it pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes and can be customized with your favorite spices and vegetables.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegetarian congris recipe is not only delicious but also incredibly nutritious and budget-friendly. By cooking the rice and black beans together, the flavors meld beautifully, delivering a depth of taste that feels both comforting and exotic.

It’s a one-pot wonder, which means less cleanup and more time to enjoy your meal.

Rich in plant-based protein from black beans and complex carbohydrates from rice, this dish supports sustained energy and digestive health. The use of fresh herbs and spices adds a vibrant aroma and a burst of flavor, making it a satisfying meal for vegetarians and meat-eaters alike.

Whether you’re meal prepping or cooking for family, this recipe is versatile, easy, and sure to impress.

Ingredients

• 1 cup long-grain white rice
• 1 cup dried black beans (or 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed)
• 3 cups water (for cooking dried beans)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1/2 green bell pepper, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 bay leaf
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or lime juice (optional, for brightness)

Equipment

• Large saucepan or pot with lid
• Colander (if using dried beans)
• Cutting board and knife
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Optional: Blender or food processor (for soaking beans faster)

Instructions

1. If using dried black beans, rinse them thoroughly under cold water. Soak overnight in plenty of water or use a quick soak method by boiling them for 5 minutes then letting sit for 1 hour.
2. Drain and rinse soaked beans. Place them in a large pot with 3 cups of fresh water. Add the bay leaf and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 45-60 minutes or until beans are tender but not mushy. Drain and set aside, reserving some cooking liquid.
3. In the same pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, green bell pepper, and garlic. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until softened and fragrant.
4. Add the cumin, oregano, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper to the sautéed vegetables. Stir to combine and cook for another minute to toast the spices.
5. Add the rice to the pot and stir to coat the grains with the spice and vegetable mixture.
6. Pour in 2 cups of water (or reserved bean cooking liquid) and bring to a boil.
7. Reduce heat to low, cover the pot, and let the rice cook for 10 minutes.
8. Add the cooked black beans on top of the rice without stirring. Cover again and cook for another 10-15 minutes or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
9. Remove from heat and let sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff the rice and beans gently with a fork and stir in fresh cilantro and apple cider vinegar or lime juice if using.
10. Serve hot as a main dish or side, garnished with additional cilantro if desired.

Tips & Variations

For a smoky depth, try adding a chipotle pepper in adobo sauce or a splash of liquid smoke during cooking.

Vegetarian congris can be made with brown rice for a nuttier flavor and more fiber, but increase cooking time by about 20 minutes and add extra water accordingly.

You can also add diced tomatoes or a splash of tomato sauce for a slightly tangy twist. If you enjoy a bit of heat, sprinkle in some crushed red pepper flakes or try the Chilli Powder Recipe Vegan: Easy Homemade Spice Blend for a flavorful kick.

For extra protein and texture, toss in sautéed mushrooms or chopped kale just before finishing the dish. This will add more vitamins and make the meal even more satisfying.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

Vegetarian congris can be served in a variety of ways. It pairs beautifully with sautéed or grilled vegetables, such as plantains, zucchini, or roasted sweet potatoes.

For a refreshing contrast, add a simple side salad with lime vinaigrette.

For a more substantial meal, serve congris alongside fried or baked tofu, tempeh, or your favorite plant-based protein. It also makes a fantastic filling for burritos or stuffed peppers, offering a delicious Cuban-inspired twist.

To explore more recipes that complement this dish, check out our collections like A to Z Vegetarian Recipes for Every Meal and Occasion or discover hearty and healthy options with Ancient Grains Vegetarian Recipes for Healthy Delicious Meals.

Conclusion

Vegetarian congris is a wonderful dish that brings together simple ingredients to create a meal full of flavor, texture, and nutrition. Its roots in Cuban cuisine make it a culturally rich choice that can easily be adapted to suit your dietary preferences and ingredient availability.

Whether you’re cooking for yourself or feeding a family, it’s a satisfying, budget-friendly recipe that warms the soul and delights the palate.

By mastering this recipe, you add a versatile and delicious dish to your cooking repertoire that’s perfect for meal prep, weeknight dinners, or special occasions. Plus, it’s a great gateway to exploring more plant-based Cuban and Latin-inspired dishes.

Don’t forget to experiment with the spices and add-ins to make the dish your own. For more creative and wholesome vegetarian meals, explore our Best Vegetarian Recipes No Dairy for Delicious Meals and keep your kitchen buzzing with exciting new flavors!

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