Vegan Spanish Rice Recipe Easy and Flavorful Guide

Spanish rice is a beloved side dish that brings vibrant colors and bold flavors to any meal. Traditionally made with chicken broth and sometimes butter, this comforting dish can be easily transformed into a vegan delight without sacrificing any of its authentic taste.

Our Vegan Spanish Rice Recipe combines aromatic spices, fresh vegetables, and perfectly cooked rice to create a hearty, flavorful dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or festive gatherings. Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or just looking to try a delicious plant-based option, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

With just a handful of simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you can whip up this vibrant rice dish in under 40 minutes. Plus, it pairs wonderfully with a variety of other vegan meals, making it a versatile choice for any occasion.

Keep reading to discover why this recipe is a must-try and how to make it your own.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegan Spanish rice recipe is more than just a side dish; it’s a celebration of flavors and textures that come together beautifully. Here’s why it stands out:

• Flavor-packed: The combination of smoked paprika, cumin, and fresh tomatoes infuses the rice with rich and authentic Spanish flavors.
• Easy and quick: Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe requires minimal prep and cooks in one pot.
• Nutritious: Made with wholesome ingredients like bell peppers, onions, and garlic, it offers a good dose of vitamins and antioxidants.
• Versatile: Enjoy it as a side or add beans and veggies to make a complete meal.
• Family-friendly: Mild spices make it accessible for all ages while still being delicious enough for adults.

Ingredients

• 1 cup long-grain white rice, rinsed well
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, with juices
• 1 ¾ cups vegetable broth
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon ground cumin
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Equipment

• Medium saucepan with lid
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board
• Fine mesh sieve (for rinsing rice)

Instructions

1. Rinse the rice: Place the rice in a fine mesh sieve and rinse under cold water until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch and helps prevent the rice from becoming sticky.
2. Sauté the vegetables: Heat the olive oil in the saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and diced red bell pepper. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened.
3. Add garlic and spices: Stir in the minced garlic, smoked paprika, ground cumin, and dried oregano. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant. This step builds the recipe’s signature depth of flavor.
4. Toast the rice: Add the rinsed rice to the saucepan. Stir continuously for 2-3 minutes to lightly toast the rice and coat it with the spices and oil. This step enhances the texture and taste.
5. Add tomatoes and broth: Pour in the canned diced tomatoes with their juices and the vegetable broth. Stir well and bring the mixture to a boil.
6. Simmer and cook: Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the saucepan with a lid. Let the rice simmer gently for 18-20 minutes, or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender. Avoid removing the lid while cooking to ensure proper steaming.
7. Fluff and season: Remove the saucepan from the heat and let it rest, covered, for 5 minutes. Then remove the lid and fluff the rice with a fork. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
8. Garnish and serve: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the rice before serving for a fresh, vibrant touch.

Tips & Variations

“For a more robust meal, try stirring in black beans or cooked chickpeas towards the end of cooking for extra protein and texture.”

• Use brown rice: For a healthier twist, substitute long-grain white rice with brown rice. Note that cooking time will increase to about 40-45 minutes.
• Add vegetables: Stir in peas, corn, or diced zucchini to boost the nutrition and color.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeño for a spicy kick.
• Make it smoky: Use smoked sea salt or add a dash of liquid smoke to deepen the smoky flavor if you love that traditional taste.
• Pressure cooker or Instant Pot: Cook the rice on high pressure for 6 minutes with natural release for an even quicker method.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This vegan Spanish rice pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes, making it a versatile addition to your meal plan. Here are some ideas to enjoy it:

• Serve alongside vegetarian Tex Mex dishes like vegan tacos or burrito bowls for a complete fiesta.
• Pair with vegan bechamel sauce drizzled roasted vegetables for a creamy, comforting combo.
• Add a side of steamed greens from vegetarian Swiss chard recipes to keep your meal fresh and balanced.
• Top with sliced avocado and a squeeze of lime for a fresh, creamy finish.
• Use as a filling for stuffed peppers or burritos for a hearty meal.

Conclusion

This vegan Spanish rice recipe is a fantastic way to bring authentic, vibrant flavors to your table without any animal products. Its ease of preparation, wholesome ingredients, and adaptability make it a go-to dish for both beginners and seasoned cooks.

Whether you enjoy it as a side or transform it into a main course by adding beans and vegetables, it’s guaranteed to satisfy your taste buds and nourish your body.

By mastering this recipe, you also open the door to exploring more plant-based dishes bursting with flavor and nutrition. Don’t forget to check out other delicious recipes on our site like Vegetarian Date Cake Recipe: Moist, Easy, and Delicious for dessert or the Vegan Bread Machine Recipe for Soft, Delicious Loaves to complement your meals.

Dive in, experiment, and enjoy the colorful world of vegan cooking!

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