Basic Cajun Beans and Rice Recipe Vegetarian Made Easy

If you’re craving a hearty, flavorful meal that’s both comforting and packed with a punch of spices, this basic Cajun beans and rice recipe is just what you need. Perfectly suited for vegetarians, it offers all the rich, smoky flavors of traditional Cajun cooking without any meat.

This dish combines tender beans simmered with aromatic vegetables, bold Cajun spices, and fluffy rice to create a satisfying plate that’s as nutritious as it is delicious.

This vegetarian take on a Southern classic is not only simple to prepare but also budget-friendly and versatile. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen newbie, this recipe will quickly become a staple in your meal rotation.

Plus, it’s an excellent way to bring a little bit of Louisiana warmth to your dining table any day of the week.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Cajun beans and rice recipe is a fantastic example of how vegetarian meals can be bursting with flavor and texture. The combination of beans and rice is a classic protein-packed duo, and when spiced with Cajun seasoning, it becomes a vibrant, soul-satisfying dish.

It’s incredibly easy to customize, whether you want to add more heat, incorporate different veggies, or make it gluten-free. The recipe also lends itself well to batch cooking, making it a great option for meal prep.

Plus, it’s naturally vegan, making it suitable for many dietary preferences.

If you’re looking for a recipe that’s wholesome, comforting, and packed with that Southern charm, this one hits all the right notes.

Ingredients

• 1 cup dried red kidney beans (or 2 cans of cooked beans, drained and rinsed)
• 1 cup long-grain white rice
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 stalks celery, diced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
• 1 bay leaf
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Equipment

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Medium saucepan
• Colander (if using dried beans)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Knife and cutting board
• Fine mesh strainer (optional, for rinsing beans)

Instructions

1. Prepare the beans: If using dried beans, rinse them thoroughly and soak overnight or for at least 8 hours. Drain and rinse again before cooking. Place the beans in a large pot with 4 cups of water, bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 1 to 1.5 hours or until tender. Drain and set aside. If using canned beans, simply rinse and drain.
2. Cook the rice: In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of water to a boil. Add the rice and a pinch of salt, reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 15-18 minutes until the water is absorbed and the rice is tender. Remove from heat and fluff with a fork.
3. Sauté the vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, green bell pepper, and celery. Cook for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are softened.
4. Add garlic and spices: Stir in the minced garlic, smoked paprika, dried thyme, oregano, Cajun seasoning, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
5. Combine beans and broth: Add the cooked beans to the pot along with 4 cups of vegetable broth and the bay leaf. Stir well to combine and bring to a simmer.
6. Simmer the mixture: Reduce heat to low and let the beans and spices simmer gently for 20-25 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper to taste.
7. Serve: Remove the bay leaf. Spoon the cooked rice onto plates or bowls and ladle the Cajun beans over the top. Garnish with chopped green onions and fresh parsley if desired.

Tips & Variations

“For a smoky depth, try adding a dash of liquid smoke or smoked salt to the beans during cooking.”

• Use different beans: Pinto beans or black beans are great alternatives if you want to change up the flavor or texture.
• Add heat: More cayenne pepper or hot sauce can be added for spice lovers.
• Make it creamy: Stir in a splash of coconut milk or vegan cream at the end for a richer texture.
• Add vegetables: Toss in diced tomatoes, okra, or corn for extra color and nutrition.
• Meal prep: This recipe stores well in the fridge for up to 4 days and freezes beautifully for longer storage.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This Cajun beans and rice dish is wonderfully versatile when it comes to serving. It works perfectly as a main course, but you can easily pair it with other dishes for a more substantial meal.

• Serve alongside a crisp green salad or steamed greens for a balanced plate.
• Pair with a crusty bread like the Green Chile Cheese Bread Recipe to soak up the flavorful juices.
• For a Southern-inspired feast, complement with German Stuffing Recipe or a side of sautéed greens.
• Top with sliced avocado or a dollop of vegan sour cream for extra creaminess.

Conclusion

This basic Cajun beans and rice recipe is a testament to how simple ingredients can come together to create a meal full of bold flavors and satisfying textures. Ideal for vegetarians and anyone looking to enjoy a taste of Cajun cuisine without meat, it’s nutritious, budget-friendly, and easy to prepare.

Its adaptability allows you to tweak the spices and add your favorite veggies to make it your own.

Whether you’re cooking for yourself on a busy weeknight or preparing a comforting meal for friends and family, this dish is sure to warm hearts and satisfy hunger. Don’t forget to check out other comforting recipes like the Grandma’S Old Fashioned Bread Pudding With Vanilla Sauce Recipe or the Glazed Twist Donut Recipe to round out your cooking adventures.

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