Are you looking for a wholesome, flavorful, and easy-to-make vegan meal? Broccoli and brown rice are a dynamic duo that not only satisfies your taste buds but also packs a nutritious punch.
Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or simply trying to eat healthier, these broccoli brown rice recipes offer a versatile base to customize with your favorite spices and veggies. Brown rice provides a hearty, fiber-rich foundation, while broccoli adds a satisfying crunch and an abundance of vitamins.
Together, they create a delicious, filling dish that’s perfect for lunch, dinner, or meal prep.
In this blog post, you’ll discover several vibrant recipes featuring broccoli and brown rice, crafted to suit busy weekdays and relaxed weekends alike. From simple stir-fries to zesty bowls and comforting casseroles, these vegan recipes will inspire you to embrace plant-based eating without sacrificing flavor or satisfaction.
Ready to whip up some healthy magic in your kitchen? Let’s dive in!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Broccoli brown rice recipes are a fantastic way to enjoy a nutrient-dense meal that’s both filling and flavorful. Brown rice offers a chewy texture and nutty flavor that pairs wonderfully with broccoli’s slight bitterness and crunch.
This combination is naturally vegan, gluten-free, and packed with fiber, antioxidants, and essential vitamins like C and K. Plus, these recipes are easy to customize with your favorite seasonings or additional vegetables.
Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or cooking a quick dinner, these dishes come together quickly and require minimal ingredients. They’re budget-friendly, wholesome, and satisfy a variety of dietary needs.
If you want a reliable, tasty, and healthy recipe on hand, these broccoli brown rice ideas are sure to become staples in your cooking repertoire.
Ingredients
- 1 cup brown rice (long grain or short grain)
- 2 ½ cups water or vegetable broth (for cooking rice)
- 2 cups broccoli florets, chopped
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil or other plant-based oil
- 1 tbsp soy sauce or tamari (for gluten-free)
- 1 tsp grated fresh ginger (optional)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice or apple cider vinegar
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley or cilantro (optional garnish)
- Optional add-ins: diced bell peppers, shredded carrots, toasted sesame seeds, chili flakes
Equipment
- Medium saucepan with lid (for cooking rice)
- Large skillet or wok
- Cutting board and sharp knife
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Colander or strainer (for rinsing rice and broccoli)
Instructions
- Rinse the brown rice under cold water using a colander to remove excess starch. Drain well.
- Cook the rice: In a medium saucepan, combine rinsed rice and 2 ½ cups water or vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 40-45 minutes until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed. Remove from heat and let it rest, covered, for 10 minutes.
- Prepare the broccoli: While the rice cooks, rinse broccoli florets and chop into bite-sized pieces. For a softer texture, steam or blanch broccoli for 3-4 minutes, then drain. Alternatively, use raw broccoli for a crunchier bite.
- Sauté aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Add diced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent. Add minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add broccoli and seasonings: Toss in the chopped broccoli and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add soy sauce, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Adjust seasoning to taste.
- Combine rice and broccoli: Fluff the cooked brown rice with a fork and add it to the skillet with the broccoli mixture. Gently stir to combine all ingredients and heat through for 2-3 minutes.
- Finish and serve: Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro, and optional toasted sesame seeds or chili flakes for an extra flavor boost.
Tips & Variations
“Make this recipe your own by swapping in seasonal veggies or your favorite spices. Adding a splash of coconut aminos instead of soy sauce gives a slightly sweeter, soy-free twist!”
- Add plant-based protein: Stir in cooked chickpeas, tofu cubes, or tempeh for a more substantial meal.
- Change up your grain: Use quinoa, farro, or wild rice instead of brown rice for different textures and flavors.
- Spice it up: Incorporate curry powder, smoked paprika, or chili paste to add warmth and depth.
- Make it a casserole: Transfer the broccoli rice mixture to a baking dish, top with vegan cheese or breadcrumbs, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes.
- Prep ahead: This dish keeps well in the fridge for 3-4 days, making it perfect for meal prep lunches.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Amount per Serving (1 cup) |
---|---|
Calories | 220 kcal |
Carbohydrates | 45 g |
Protein | 6 g |
Fat | 4 g |
Fiber | 5 g |
Vitamin C | 70% DV |
Vitamin K | 90% DV |
Iron | 10% DV |
Serving Suggestions
This broccoli brown rice dish shines as a standalone meal or as a hearty side. Consider pairing it with a fresh green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette for a light, balanced lunch.
For an Asian-inspired twist, serve alongside steamed dumplings or spring rolls. Alternatively, add a dollop of your favorite vegan sauce such as tahini drizzle, peanut sauce, or a spicy sriracha mayo.
Want to explore more vegan recipes? Check out our Harvest Hash Recipe: A Delicious and Easy Fall Comfort Food or try the Lion’S Mane Mushroom Crumble Recipes for more plant-based inspiration.
Broccoli Brown Rice Recipes Vegan: 3 Delicious Variations
Garlic Lemon Broccoli Brown Rice Bowl
- Ingredients: Brown rice, broccoli, garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, black pepper, fresh parsley.
- Instructions: Follow the base recipe above but increase garlic to 4 cloves for a garlicky punch. Finish with a generous squeeze of lemon juice and fresh parsley. Serve warm.
- Tip: Add sliced avocado on top for creaminess and extra nutrients.
Spicy Peanut Broccoli Brown Rice Stir-Fry
- Ingredients: Brown rice, broccoli, garlic, ginger, soy sauce, peanut butter, chili flakes, green onions, sesame seeds.
- Instructions: Sauté garlic and ginger, add broccoli and rice. Whisk together 2 tbsp peanut butter, 2 tbsp soy sauce, and 1 tsp chili flakes, then stir into the skillet. Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds.
- Tip: Toast peanuts for crunch or add cubed tofu for protein.
Broccoli Brown Rice Casserole with Nutritional Yeast
- Ingredients: Brown rice, broccoli, onion, garlic, vegetable broth, almond milk, nutritional yeast, breadcrumbs, vegan butter.
- Instructions: Cook broccoli rice mixture as usual. In a separate saucepan, make a vegan béchamel sauce with almond milk and nutritional yeast. Combine all and transfer to a baking dish. Top with breadcrumbs and vegan butter. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes until golden.
- Tip: Sprinkle smoked paprika or add sautéed mushrooms for extra flavor.
Conclusion
- Ingredients: Brown rice, broccoli, garlic, ginger, soy sauce, peanut butter, chili flakes, green onions, sesame seeds.
- Instructions: Sauté garlic and ginger, add broccoli and rice. Whisk together 2 tbsp peanut butter, 2 tbsp soy sauce, and 1 tsp chili flakes, then stir into the skillet. Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds.
- Tip: Toast peanuts for crunch or add cubed tofu for protein.
Broccoli Brown Rice Casserole with Nutritional Yeast
- Ingredients: Brown rice, broccoli, onion, garlic, vegetable broth, almond milk, nutritional yeast, breadcrumbs, vegan butter.
- Instructions: Cook broccoli rice mixture as usual. In a separate saucepan, make a vegan béchamel sauce with almond milk and nutritional yeast. Combine all and transfer to a baking dish. Top with breadcrumbs and vegan butter. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes until golden.
- Tip: Sprinkle smoked paprika or add sautéed mushrooms for extra flavor.
Conclusion
Broccoli brown rice recipes are a fantastic addition to any vegan meal plan. They offer a comforting yet nutritious option that’s easy to prepare, highly adaptable, and delicious.
Whether you prefer a simple sauté, a creamy casserole, or a spicy stir-fry, these recipes deliver satisfying flavors and wholesome ingredients. Plus, they’re perfect for batch cooking and reheating through the week, making healthy eating convenient and stress-free.
By incorporating these recipes into your rotation, you’re not only nourishing your body with fiber, vitamins, and minerals, but you’re also embracing the vibrant, versatile possibilities of plant-based cooking.
Don’t forget to explore more creative dishes like our Lemon Ricotta Pasta With Arugula Recipe for other vegan delights. Happy cooking and enjoy your wholesome meals!
📖 Recipe Card: Vegan Broccoli Brown Rice Bowl
Description: A wholesome and flavorful vegan dish featuring tender broccoli and nutty brown rice. Perfect for a healthy lunch or dinner packed with nutrients.
Prep Time: PT10M
Cook Time: PT30M
Total Time: PT40M
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup brown rice
- 2 1/2 cups water
- 3 cups broccoli florets
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Rinse brown rice under cold water.
- Combine rice and water in a pot; bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 25 minutes until rice is tender.
- Steam broccoli florets until bright green and crisp-tender, about 5 minutes.
- Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat; sauté onion, garlic, and ginger until fragrant.
- Add steamed broccoli to the pan and stir in soy sauce and red pepper flakes.
- Mix cooked rice into the broccoli mixture and cook for 2 more minutes.
- Season with salt and pepper, then sprinkle with sesame seeds before serving.
Nutrition: Calories: 320 kcal | Protein: 8 g | Fat: 7 g | Carbs: 55 g
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