Vegan Rice and Beans

This Vegan Rice and Beans is a satisfying meal all on its own. Full of protein and fiber, this delicious combination of fluffy rice, tender beans, and vegetables with herbs and spices is so tasty.

Course Side Dish

Cuisine American

Prep Time 10

Cook Time 25

Total Time 35

Servings servings

Calories 183kcal

Author Tania Sheff

Ingredients

2 cups vegetable broth (or salted water)
1 cup long-grain rice I used parboiled rice
2 tbsp. olive oil, divided
1 medium onion, finely diced
1 large bell pepper, finely diced
2 large garlic cloves, minced
1 jalapeno pepper, finely diced
2 cans (15 oz. each) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
1 tsp. cumin powder
½ tsp. chili powder, or to taste optional
1 tsp. sea salt, or to taste
¼ tsp. pepper, or to taste
¼ cup chopped cilantro or parsley

Instructions

In a medium pot, bring the vegetable stock, or salted water, to a boil. Add rice and about 1 tablespoon. of oil. Reduce heat to low, and simmer for 20 minutes, until the rice is cooked through and fluffy.
In the meantime, heat up a large skillet over medium heat, add the oil and onion, and cook for about 5 minutes.
At this point, add the bell pepper, garlic, and jalapeno. Cook for another 3-5 minutes.
Now, add the cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Stir, and cook for 1 minute, until the spices are fragrant.
Add in the kidney beans and cook until just heated through.
Lastly, add the cooked rice and cilantro. Stir, turn off the heat, and serve.

Video

Notes

Add-ins and Substitutes

Add other vegetables. You can try this recipe with the addition of corn, peas, olives, squash, or carrots for a different flavor. Saute the harder veggies, like the carrots, to soften them.
Substitute other herbs. Rather than using parsley, you can add cilantro as a garnish, or thyme, sage, or a bay leaf to be cooked into the dish.
Add some acidity. For a tangy flavor, add some apple cider vinegar or lime juice to these Vegan Rice and Beans. Fresh lime juice is always preferred for the best flavor.
Add tofu. Try this recipe with added protein by chopping up some tofu and cooking it with the beans and vegetables. Choose the firm or extra firm varieties though, so they will hold their shape.

How to Store

You can store these Vegan Rice and Beans in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 5 days. When you are ready to reheat them, place them on the stove top to warm through, or in the microwave for a minute or two. You can also freeze this dish once it has cooled. Place it in a freezer-safe container or ziplock bag for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.

Nutrition