Are you craving a vibrant, flavorful, and satisfying meal that's also quick and easy to make? Look no further! This vegan Spanish rice recipe is the perfect solution for busy weeknights or a delightful weekend lunch. It's packed with deliciousness, completely plant-based, and surprisingly simple to prepare, even for beginner cooks. Get ready to enjoy a taste of sunshine on your plate! This recipe is a fantastic addition to your collection of healthy meals and quick dinner ideas.
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped (optional, for extra color and flavor)
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a little heat)
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup frozen peas (or corn, for variation)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Lime wedges (for serving)
Instructions:
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Sauté the Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and bell peppers, and cook for another 3-5 minutes, until slightly tender.
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Toast the Rice and Spices: Add the rice, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using) to the pot. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to toast the rice and release the fragrant spices. This step adds depth of flavor to your homemade cooking.
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Simmer the Rice: Pour in the diced tomatoes (undrained) and vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked through and the liquid is absorbed.
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Stir in the Peas and Season: Gently stir in the frozen peas during the last few minutes of cooking. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
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Serve and Enjoy: Fluff the rice with a fork before serving. Garnish with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice. This delicious dish is perfect on its own or as a side to your favorite vegan protein.
Cooking Tips for the Best Spanish Rice:
- Don't rinse the rice: Leaving the starch on the rice helps it absorb the liquid and create a more tender texture.
- Use good quality spices: Freshly ground spices will significantly enhance the flavor of your Spanish rice.
- Adjust the spice level: Feel free to adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to your liking. If you prefer a milder dish, omit it altogether.
- Add other vegetables: Feel free to experiment with other vegetables, such as carrots, zucchini, or mushrooms.
Variations:
- Mexican Spanish Rice: Add a tablespoon of chili powder for a spicier kick.
- Hearty Spanish Rice: Stir in cooked black beans or chickpeas for extra protein and fiber.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 250
- Protein: Approximately 5g
- Fat: Approximately 5g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 45g
- Fiber: Approximately 4g
This easy recipe is a perfect example of delicious dishes that don't require extensive cooking skills. It's a great way to explore homemade cooking and enjoy a healthy and flavorful meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Enjoy!