Vegan Red Beans and Rice Recipe

This flavorful vegan recipe of red beans and rice is a perfect dish inspired from the traditional Creole cuisine. Simple yet hearty, it's packed with spices and ingredients that make for a wholesome meal any time of the day.

Photos of Vegan Red Beans and Rice Recipe

The ingredients for this recipe are typically found in most households. However, the liquid smoke flavoring may not be readily available in your pantry. It's an optional ingredient used to give a smoky flavor to the dish, and can be found in most supermarkets in the condiment section.

Vegan Red Beans and Rice Ingredients

Red kidney beans: These are the main protein source in this dish. Soaking them overnight helps in easier digestion. Celery, Onion, Bell Pepper: These vegetables form the base of the dish and add a lot of flavor. Garlic: It is used to add a pungent, spicy flavor to the dish. Vegetable oil: It is used for sautéing the vegetables. Thyme, Oregano, Black Pepper, Cumin, Cayenne Pepper: These spices add a depth of flavor and a hint of heat to the dish. Liquid smoke flavoring: It adds a smoky flavor to the dish. Bay leaves: They are used to infuse the dish with a distinctive flavor and fragrance. White rice: It is served with the beans and absorbs the flavors of the dish. Salt: It enhances the flavors of the dish.

One reader, Jen Wynn says:

This vegan red beans and rice recipe is a game-changer! The flavors are rich and satisfying, and the texture is perfect. It's a hearty, wholesome meal that's easy to make and incredibly delicious. I love how the spices come together, creating a dish that's both comforting and full of flavor. Highly recommend!

Jen Wynn

Essential Techniques for Vegan Red Beans and Rice Recipe

Soaking the beans: To ensure the beans cook evenly and have a creamy texture, it's important to soak them for at least 8 hours or overnight. This helps to soften the beans and reduce the cooking time.

Blending the vegetables: The vegetables should be blended until they are finely chopped but not completely pureed. This step helps to create a flavorful base for the dish.

Cooking the rice: When cooking the rice, it's important to bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer and cover the pot. This will ensure that the rice cooks evenly and absorbs the water properly.

Mashing the beans: Mashing a portion of the cooked beans helps to thicken the dish and create a creamy texture. It's important to add the reserved cooking liquid gradually to achieve the desired consistency.

With this Cajun-style vegan red beans and rice recipe, I get to enjoy a meat-free version of the traditional Louisiana dish. It’s actually easy to recreate the taste of the iconic red beans and rice dish, just without the sausages. Although, you can choose to add in vegan sausage as an alternative for those who still want a bit of meat-like flavor. But even without those added ingredients, most of the bold flavors come from the perfect blend of herb spices and vegetables. When combined with the red beans, the entire dish becomes even better.

It’s so easy to make this plant based protein dish. What you need is a lot of patience though as it can take awhile to prepare the entire dish. This is because you’ll need to soak the dried red kidney beans first before starting. I recommend soaking the dried beans overnight so it’s really soft and tender when mashed, but doing it eight hours before will also work. Once I had my beans soaked, I prepared the vegetables and seasonings next.

The secret to making this recipe extra delicious is the herb spices. I used a few essential Cajun spices and herbs such as dried thyme, dried oregano, cayenne pepper, and bay leaves. You can also use creole seasoning and spices that have smoked paprika as well for hints of spicy and smoky flavors. And if you want more heat, then adding crushed red pepper flakes or a dash hot sauce works as well. Other people would even include a tablespoon of red wine vinegar into the mix for a bit of tang, which also tastes good.

Besides the seasonings, cooking the seasoned beans in veggie broth is also a great way to add more flavor to the dish. I highly recommend using vegetable broth instead of water to cook both the bean mixture and white rice. This is because the veggie broth brings out a much fuller taste, which is essential for most vegetarian or vegan food dishes. It will provide that missing richness that you usually get from meat.

After combining both the vegetables and tender beans, I just had to wait a few more minutes for it to cook and then I served it over white rice. You can also use brown rice for this recipe as a substitute. Just take note that cooking this rice takes a bit longer. Brown rice has more fiber and micronutrients than white rice so it’s a good healthy alternative. Both are delicious when paired with the seasoned beans. You can even sprinkle a bit of sliced green onions or chopped parsley on top for added texture and flavor.

Overall, these vegan red beans and rice make for the perfect meal prep dish especially when it’s served with the rice. You can even try cooking this dish using an instant pot or slow cooker, if you have one at hand.

How To Make Vegan Red Beans and Rice

Cooked with celery, bell pepper, and a blend of herb spices, these vegan red beans and rice make a perfect meat-free dish. Enjoy it over warm rice.

Preparation: 10 minutes

Cooking: 2 hours 15 minutes

Soak Time: 8 hours

Total: 10 hours 25 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

16ozdry red kidney beans,(1 package)
3celery stalks,chopped
1medium onion,coarsely chopped
1green bell pepper,chopped
6large cloves garlic,peeled
2tbspvegetable oil
2tspdried thyme
1tspdried oregano
½tspground black pepper
½tspground cumin
¼tspcayenne pepper
8cupswater,divided
4dashesliquid smoke flavoring
2bay leaves
1cupwhite rice,uncooked
salt,to taste

Instructions

Place red beans into a large container and cover with several inches of cool water. Let soak for 8 hours to overnight. Drain and rinse.
Add celery, onion, bell pepper, and garlic to a blender and process until just shy of a puree.
Add vegetable oil to a saucepan or stockpot over medium heat. Cook and stir vegetable mixture for 5 minutes.
Add thyme, oregano, black pepper, cumin, and cayenne pepper. Cook, stirring regularly, for 2 minutes more.
Add 6 cups water, the beans, liquid smoke, and bay leaves. Stir to combine and turn the heat up to high.
Bring to a boil, reduce heat to low, and let simmer for 2 to 3 hours until beans begin to fall apart.
Bring remaining water and rice to a boil in another saucepan. Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer for 20 to 25 minutes until rice is tender and water has been absorbed.
Pour most of the cooking liquid from the beans into a bowl and reserve. Remove bay leaves.
Mash about ⅓ of the beans, adding as much of the reserved liquid as necessary to reach the preferred thickness. Mix with the unmashed beans and season with salt.
Serve beans over rice.

Nutrition

Calories: 438.24kcal
Fat: 5.87g
Saturated Fat: 0.53g
Trans Fat: 0.04g
Monounsaturated Fat: 3.53g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.36g
Carbohydrates: 77.70g
Fiber: 12.89g
Sugar: 3.17g
Protein: 20.13g
Sodium: 1146.54mg
Calcium: 112.27mg
Potassium: 1201.36mg
Iron: 6.26mg
Vitamin A: 11.01µg
Vitamin C: 22.86mg

Helpful Technique for Perfecting Vegan Red Beans and Rice

When mashing the beans, it's best to use a potato masher or the back of a large spoon. This will give you a chunky texture that's perfect for this dish. If you prefer a smoother consistency, you can use an immersion blender, but be careful not to over-blend as it can make the beans too creamy. Remember, the goal is to have a mix of mashed and whole beans for a variety of textures in your vegan red beans and rice.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Vegan Red Beans and Rice

Prep ahead: Chop and blend the vegetables in advance and store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator. This will save time during the cooking process.

Use a pressure cooker: Consider using a pressure cooker to cook the red beans. It significantly reduces the cooking time and helps soften the beans more quickly.

Double batch: Make a larger quantity of the red beans and rice and store the leftovers for quick and convenient meals throughout the week.

Quick rice: Use instant or quick-cooking rice to cut down on the rice preparation time, ensuring the dish comes together faster.

Organize ingredients: Before starting the cooking process, organize all the ingredients and tools needed for the recipe to streamline the cooking process.

Pre-measure: Pre-measure the spices and seasonings beforehand to save time during the cooking process.

One-pot meal: Consider using a large pot to cook the red beans and rice together, minimizing the number of dishes to clean up afterward.

Substitute Ingredients For Vegan Red Beans and Rice Recipe

dry red kidney beans - Substitute with canned red kidney beans: Canned beans are a convenient alternative and can be used directly without soaking, reducing the cooking time significantly.
celery stalks - Substitute with celery seed: Celery seed can provide a similar flavor to dishes and can be used as a substitute when fresh celery is not available.
onion - Substitute with shallots: Shallots have a milder flavor compared to onions and can be a suitable replacement, adding a subtle sweetness to the dish.
green bell pepper - Substitute with red bell pepper: Red bell peppers can be used as a substitute for green bell peppers, providing a slightly sweeter flavor to the dish.
garlic - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder can be used as a substitute for fresh garlic, providing a similar flavor while being convenient to use.
vegetable oil - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil can be used as a substitute for vegetable oil, adding a hint of coconut flavor to the dish.
dried thyme - Substitute with dried marjoram: Dried marjoram can be used as a substitute for thyme, providing a similar earthy and slightly sweet flavor.
dried oregano - Substitute with dried basil: Dried basil can be used as a substitute for oregano, adding a slightly different but complementary flavor to the dish.
ground black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper can be used as a substitute for black pepper, providing a milder and slightly different flavor profile.
ground cumin - Substitute with ground coriander: Ground coriander can be used as a substitute for cumin, providing a similar warm and citrusy flavor to the dish.
cayenne pepper - Substitute with paprika: Paprika can be used as a substitute for cayenne pepper, providing a milder heat and a rich, smoky flavor.
water - Substitute with vegetable broth: Vegetable broth can be used to add flavor and depth to the dish, replacing the water with a more aromatic liquid.
liquid smoke flavoring - Substitute with smoked paprika: Smoked paprika can add a smoky flavor similar to liquid smoke, enhancing the overall taste of the dish.
white rice - Substitute with brown rice: Brown rice can be used as a healthier alternative to white rice, providing more nutrients and a nuttier flavor to the dish.

Presenting Your Vegan Red Beans and Rice

Elevate the plating: When presenting the vegan red beans and rice, focus on creating an elegant and visually appealing presentation. Use fresh herbs and microgreens to add a pop of color and freshness to the dish.
Incorporate texture: Consider adding a crunchy element to the dish to provide contrast. You can sprinkle some crispy shallots or toasted breadcrumbs on top of the beans and rice for a delightful texture.
Utilize elegant serving ware: Opt for sophisticated and stylish serving dishes to showcase the vegan red beans and rice. Choose ceramic bowls or artisanal plates to enhance the overall dining experience.
Garnish with precision: Pay attention to the finer details by garnishing the dish with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and a sprinkle of smoked paprika for a touch of sophistication and flavor enhancement.
Create a focal point: Arrange the beans and rice thoughtfully on the plate, creating a focal point that draws the eye. Consider using a ring mold for a professional and polished presentation.
Balance the colors: Aim for a harmonious color scheme on the plate. Consider incorporating vibrant cherry tomatoes or sautéed spinach to add a burst of color and visual appeal to the dish.
Emphasize precision and cleanliness: Pay attention to the cleanliness of the plate and ensure that the presentation is precise and visually stunning. Wipe any smudges or spills for a flawless presentation.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Vegan Red Beans and Rice

Blender: A blender is used to process the vegetable mixture into a near-puree consistency, which is essential for the base of the red beans and rice recipe.
Saucepan or stockpot: A saucepan or stockpot is used for cooking the vegetable mixture and simmering the red beans with the seasonings and liquid.
Saucepan: Another saucepan is used to cook the rice separately.
Large container: A large container is used for soaking the dry red kidney beans in water before cooking.
Mixing spoon: A mixing spoon is used for stirring the red beans and rice while cooking.
Blender: A blender is used to process the vegetable mixture into a near-puree consistency, which is essential for the base of the red beans and rice recipe.
Saucepan or stockpot: A saucepan or stockpot is used for cooking the vegetable mixture and simmering the red beans with the seasonings and liquid.
Saucepan: Another saucepan is used to cook the rice separately.
Large container: A large container is used for soaking the dry red kidney beans in water before cooking.
Mixing spoon: A mixing spoon is used for stirring the red beans and rice while cooking.

Storing and Freezing Your Vegan Red Beans and Rice

Let the red beans and rice cool completely before storing or freezing.
For storing in the refrigerator, transfer the cooled red beans and rice to separate airtight containers. They will keep well in the fridge for up to 5 days.
To freeze, place the cooled red beans and rice in separate freezer-safe containers or resealable bags. Remove as much air as possible before sealing to prevent freezer burn.
Label the containers or bags with the date and contents for easy identification.
When ready to eat, thaw the red beans and rice overnight in the refrigerator.
Reheat the red beans in a saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally and adding a little water or vegetable broth if needed to achieve the desired consistency.
Reheat the rice in the microwave or in a saucepan with a splash of water until heated through.
For best results, consume the frozen red beans and rice within 3 months.

How To Reheat Leftover Vegan Red Beans and Rice

Stovetop method: transfer the leftover red beans and rice to a saucepan, add a splash of vegetable broth or water to moisten the dish, and heat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through (about 5-7 minutes). this method helps to maintain the texture and flavor of the dish.
Microwave method: place the leftover red beans and rice in a microwave-safe container, add a small amount of vegetable broth or water to prevent drying out, and cover the container with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap. microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through, until heated through. be careful not to overheat, as this can cause the rice to become mushy.
Oven method: preheat the oven to 350°f (175°c). transfer the leftover red beans and rice to an oven-safe dish, add a small amount of vegetable broth or water to maintain moisture, and cover the dish with foil. bake for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. this method is ideal for larger portions and helps to evenly heat the dish.
Add-ins and toppings: to enhance the flavor and texture of reheated red beans and rice, consider adding fresh herbs like chopped parsley or cilantro, a squeeze of lime juice, or a sprinkle of hot sauce. you can also top the dish with sliced green onions, diced tomatoes, or sliced avocado for added freshness and flavor.
Repurposing leftovers: leftover red beans and rice can be transformed into new dishes, such as vegan burritos or stuffed bell peppers. simply warm the leftovers and use them as a filling for your favorite recipes, adding fresh ingredients and seasonings to create a new and exciting meal.

Interesting Trivia About Vegan Red Beans and Rice

The dish is a staple in the cuisine of New Orleans, Louisiana, and is often associated with the city's Creole culture. It is a hearty and flavorful dish that has been enjoyed for generations, and it is a popular choice for gatherings and celebrations in the region.

Is Making Vegan Red Beans and Rice at Home Cost-Effective?

This vegan red beans and rice recipe is highly cost-effective for a household. The main ingredient, red kidney beans, is budget-friendly and packed with nutrients. The addition of vegetables and rice further enhances the affordability and nutritional value. With an approximate cost of $10, this hearty dish can feed a family of four, making it an economical choice. The flavorful blend of spices and the versatility of the dish make it a solid 9/10. It's a wholesome, budget-friendly option for families looking to enjoy a delicious and nutritious meal without breaking the bank.

Is This Vegan Dish Healthy or Unhealthy?

This vegan red beans and rice recipe is a nutritious and wholesome dish that offers several health benefits:

Red kidney beans are an excellent source of plant-based protein, fiber, and essential nutrients like folate, iron, and potassium
The vegetables used in the recipe (celery, onion, bell pepper, and garlic) provide a variety of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants
The use of herbs and spices like thyme, oregano, black pepper, cumin, and cayenne pepper adds flavor without relying on excessive salt or unhealthy fats
Brown rice is a whole grain that provides more fiber, vitamins, and minerals compared to white rice

However, there are a few aspects of the recipe that could be improved to make it even healthier:

Opt for brown rice instead of white rice to increase the fiber content and nutritional value of the dish
Reduce the amount of oil used in the recipe or replace it with a healthier alternative like olive oil or coconut oil
Consider adding more vegetables to the dish, such as carrots, tomatoes, or leafy greens, to boost the nutrient density
If you prefer a lower-sodium version, you can reduce the amount of added salt or use a low-sodium vegetable broth instead of water

To further enhance the nutritional profile of this vegan red beans and rice recipe, you can:

Serve the dish with a side salad or steamed vegetables to add more fiber, vitamins, and minerals
Sprinkle some chopped fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro on top for added flavor and nutrients
Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice before serving to brighten the flavors and provide a dose of vitamin C
Experiment with different types of beans or legumes, such as black beans or lentils, to vary the texture and nutrient content of the dish

Editor's Opinion on This Vegan Red Beans and Rice Recipe

The vegan red beans and rice recipe is a classic comfort dish with a rich, smoky flavor. The combination of aromatic vegetables, herbs, and spices creates a robust base for the creamy red beans. The addition of liquid smoke adds depth, while the fluffy white rice provides a perfect contrast in texture. This dish is a hearty and satisfying meal that showcases the versatility of plant-based ingredients. It's a great option for anyone looking for a flavorful and nutritious vegan dish.

Enhance Your Vegan Red Beans and Rice Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with roasted garlic and a hint of thyme, perfect for pairing with the hearty red beans and rice.

Grilled Vegetable Skewers: Colorful skewers of marinated vegetables, grilled to perfection and served alongside the flavorful red beans and rice.

Mixed Green Salad with Citrus Vinaigrette: A refreshing salad of mixed greens, tossed in a tangy citrus vinaigrette, providing a light and crisp contrast to the rich red beans and rice.

Similar Recipes to Try If You Love Vegan Red Beans and Rice

Vegan Black Bean Soup: This hearty and flavorful soup is packed with protein and fiber, making it a satisfying and nutritious meal.

Quinoa Stuffed Bell Peppers: These colorful and delicious stuffed bell peppers are filled with a savory quinoa and vegetable mixture, making for a healthy and satisfying dish.

Mango Salsa Chicken: This vibrant and zesty salsa is the perfect accompaniment to tender and juicy chicken, creating a delicious and refreshing meal.

Coconut Curry Lentil Stew: This aromatic and creamy stew is filled with tender lentils and aromatic spices, creating a comforting and flavorful dish that's perfect for a cozy night in.

Berry Chia Pudding: This creamy and nutritious pudding is made with fresh berries and chia seeds, creating a delicious and guilt-free dessert or snack.

Perfect Appetizers and Desserts for a Vegan Red Beans and Rice Meal

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Create a savory and indulgent appetizer by stuffing mushrooms with a flavorful mixture of herbs, breadcrumbs, and vegan cheese. Bake until golden and crispy for a delicious start to any meal.

Crispy Spring Rolls: Offer a light and crunchy appetizer option by filling spring roll wrappers with a colorful assortment of fresh vegetables and serving with a zesty dipping sauce. These crispy spring rolls are sure to impress your guests with their vibrant flavors and satisfying crunch.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and velvety chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder. The smooth and decadent texture will satisfy any sweet tooth.

Berry Parfait: Layer juicy mixed berries with creamy coconut yogurt and crunchy granola for a refreshing and light dessert. The combination of sweet and tart flavors creates a delightful treat that is perfect for any time of day.

Why trust this Vegan Red Beans and Rice Recipe:

This vegan red beans and rice recipe offers a delightful combination of red kidney beans, celery, onion, and bell pepper that are blended to perfection. The aromatic blend of thyme, oregano, and cumin infuses rich flavors, while the addition of liquid smoke flavoring elevates the dish. The slow simmering process ensures the beans reach a creamy consistency, creating a hearty and satisfying meal. With its carefully curated ingredients and meticulous cooking method, this recipe guarantees a delicious and wholesome dining experience.

Want to share your thoughts on this Vegan Red Beans and Rice Recipe? Join the discussion in the Recipe Sharing forum and let us know how it turned out for you!

FAQ:

Can I use canned red kidney beans instead of dry beans?

Yes, you can use canned red kidney beans instead of dry beans. If using canned beans, you'll need about 4 cans (15 oz each) of kidney beans. Rinse and drain the canned beans before adding them to the recipe.

Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?

Absolutely! You can adapt this recipe for a slow cooker. After sautéing the vegetable mixture and spices, transfer everything to a slow cooker along with the soaked beans, water, liquid smoke, and bay leaves. Cook on low for 8 hours or until the beans are tender.

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

This recipe is naturally gluten-free. Just ensure that the spices and liquid smoke you use are certified gluten-free. Serve the red beans and rice with your favorite gluten-free side or accompaniment.

Can I freeze the leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze the leftovers. Allow the red beans and rice to cool completely before transferring them to airtight containers. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

What can I serve with vegan red beans and rice?

Vegan red beans and rice can be served with a variety of sides such as steamed vegetables, cornbread, or a fresh green salad. It also pairs well with plantains or a side of avocado for a delicious and satisfying meal.