The Best Vegan Red Beans and Rice Recipe! (2024)

Let’s bust the myth that vegan food is expensive! This amazing vegan red beans and rice recipe is packed with flavor, incredibly satisfying, and surprisingly easy to make. With simple ingredients and minimal effort, you’ll be serving up a cozy, comforting bowl in no time.

I’ve always thought that cooking bean-based recipes from dried beans would be such a hassle. I’ve learned over the last couple of years that nothing could be further from the truth.

I honestly adore this recipe. It’s my go-to for busy weeknights, and it always hits the spot. Most importantly, it’s living proof that plant-based eating can be both delicious and affordable. A side of my favorite vegan cornbread takes this meal to the next level!

Ingredients & Substitutions

Here are the ingredients you’ll need for this recipe, including substitution ideas:

• Dried red beans:I like to choose dried beans for the best texture and flavor. Kidney beans are also a great option.
• Olive oil:A good quality extra virgin olive oil adds richness. Substitute with avocado oil if desired.
• Onion:Yellow or white onions are the best choices. You can also substitute a red onion.
• Carrots:Add a touch of natural sweetness and vibrant color.
• Bell pepper:Green, yellow, or red bell pepper works beautifully. Find them in the produce section.
• Garlic:Freshly minced garlic is ideal, but pre-minced can be substituted in a pinch.
• Seasonings: We’ll be adding chili powder, ground turmeric, some cayenne pepper, savory dried thyme, and a tablespoon of Liquid Smoke for smoky depth.
• Vegetable broth:Opt for a low-sodium variety to control saltiness. Find it in the soup aisle.
• Bay leaves:Dried bay leaves add a subtle herbaceous note.
• Stewed tomatoes:Canned, diced tomatoes would also work well.
• Textured vegetable protein (TVP):A fantastic plant-based protein source with a great texture. Find it in the health food aisle of most grocery stores or online. You can also use ground, cooked Faux meat or some homemade veggie crumbles.
• Brown Rice:Provides a healthy and satisfying base for the dish. Use precooked rice or learn more about cooking brown rice from scratch.

How to Know Beans Are Done

Cooking dried beans to perfection is an important step in this recipe. Perfectly cooked beans are tender and creamy, while undercooked beans can be tough and unpleasant.

Here are a few easy ways to tell if your beans are ready:

1. The Sound Test:When you stir the pot, the beans shouldn’t make a “pinging” sound against the spoon. They should move more slowly and heavily.
2. The Taste Test:Take one bean out of the pot, let it cool slightly, and taste it. It should be tender, with no chewiness or crunchiness.
3. The Visual Test:Look closely at the beans. They should be plump, and their skins should look slightly wrinkled.

Important Reminder: Cooking times for dried beans can vary depending on the age of the beans and how long they were soaked. Start testing your beans towards the end of the suggested cooking time to ensure they reach the perfect level of doneness.

Serving Suggestions

This hearty and flavorful vegan red beans and rice is fantastic on its own, but a few simple additions can take it to the next level. Here are some ideas to get you started:

• Classic Comfort:Enjoy this dish with a slice of simple vegan Jiffy cornbread for the ultimate Southern-inspired meal.
• Creamy Touch:A dollop of plant-based cashew cream or vegan sour cream adds richness and a delightful tang.
• Spicy Kick:Top with sliced jalapeños, hot sauce, or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper for those who like it hot.
• Avocado Love:Add a few slices of avocado or a generous scoop of easy vegan guacamole for healthy fats and a creamy texture.
• Crispy Crunch:Serve with crispy air fryer tortilla chips for scooping and dipping.

Get Creative! This versatile dish is a fun way to expand your culinary creativity. Feel free to experiment with your favorite toppings and sides!

Cheap Vegan Recipes

There’s a common misconception that vegan eating has to be expensive. This delicious and satisfying red beans and rice recipe is proof positive that plant-based meals can be both delicious and budget-friendly.

Let’s break down the costs:

• Dried beans:A bag of dried beans provides a significant amount of servings for just $1.
• Brown rice:An incredibly affordable and versatile staple at around $1 per bag.
• TVP:While a bit pricier at $4, this protein-packed ingredient adds bulk and stretches your meals further.
• Veggies & spices:Fresh produce like onions, carrots, and garlic, along with pantry spices, round out the flavor for approximately $5.

This entire recipe yields 8 hearty servings for around $11. That’s just $1.38 per serving – a fantastic bargain for a wholesome, homemade meal!

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Enjoy!