Vegan Red Beans and Rice

If you’ve ever craved a comforting, hearty meal that’s packed with flavor, look no further than this Vegan Red Beans and Rice recipe. This dish is a staple in many households, particularly in Creole and Cajun cuisines, and it’s easy to see why. The combination of tender red beans with fragrant spices and savory vegetables creates a dish that warms your heart and soul. Plus, it’s completely plant-based, making it a wholesome option for everyone at the table.

Why I Love This Recipe

This Vegan Red Beans and Rice recipe is one of my favorites for several reasons. First, it’s incredibly satisfying, offering a delightful blend of textures and flavors. The creaminess of the beans pairs perfectly with the chewy rice, and the smoky seasonings add depth that keeps you coming back for more. Second, it’s versatile! You can easily adapt the recipe to suit your taste preferences or the ingredients you have on hand. Lastly, it’s a fantastic meal prep option; you can make a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week or freeze it for later.

What You’ll Need

• 4 tbsp olive oil or avocado oil, divided
• 2 cups celery, diced (about 3 stalks)
• 1 yellow onion, diced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 pound dried red kidney beans, rinsed, picked through, and soaked for 8 hours
• 8 cups water
• 14-inch strip of kombu (optional)
• 4 dried bay leaves
• 2 tsp dried thyme
• 1-2 vegetable bouillon cubes
• 3 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp liquid smoke, plus more to taste if desired
• 1 tsp Cajun or Creole seasoning (homemade recipe here), plus more seasoning blend if yours doesn’t contain salt
• 2 cups rice, white or brown
• 4 vegan sausages, sliced (homemade or use Field Roast Smoked Apple Sausage or your favorite brand)
• 1 cup parsley, chopped

What You’ll Need (Gear)

• Large pot or Dutch oven – Ideal for simmering the beans and rice together.
• Wooden spoon – Perfect for stirring and mixing the ingredients.
• Colander – To rinse the beans after soaking.
• Measuring cups and spoons – For accurate ingredient portions.
• Sharp knife – Essential for chopping vegetables.

Vegan Red Beans and Rice in Steps

Step 1: Soak the Beans

Begin by soaking your dried red kidney beans in a large bowl of water for at least 8 hours or overnight. This step is essential for ensuring they cook evenly and become tender.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil or avocado oil over medium heat. Add the diced celery, onion, and green bell pepper. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables have softened and the onion is translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, until fragrant.

Step 3: Add the Beans and Water

Drain and rinse the soaked beans, then add them to the pot. Pour in 8 cups of water, and if using, add the kombu strip for added flavor. Toss in the bay leaves, thyme, vegetable bouillon cubes, smoked paprika, liquid smoke, and Cajun seasoning.

Step 4: Simmer the Beans

Increase the heat to bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beans are tender. Stir occasionally and add more water if needed to keep the beans submerged.

Step 5: Cook the Rice

About 20 minutes before the beans are done, prepare the rice according to package instructions. This could be cooked in a separate pot or added directly to the bean mixture if you prefer a one-pot meal. If cooking separately, you’ll want to use 4 cups of water for the 2 cups of rice.

Step 6: Add Vegan Sausages

Once the beans are tender, stir in the sliced vegan sausages and allow them to heat through for about 5-10 minutes. Taste the mixture and adjust the seasoning with salt, more Cajun seasoning, or additional liquid smoke if desired.

Step 7: Serve and Garnish

Remove the pot from heat. Discard the bay leaves and kombu strip (if used). Fluff the rice and serve it in bowls topped with the bean mixture. Garnish with chopped parsley for a fresh finish.

Seasonal Ingredient Swaps

• Vegetables: Feel free to substitute the celery, onion, and bell pepper with seasonal options like zucchini or carrots.
• Beans: If you can’t find red kidney beans, pinto beans or black beans work well too.
• Spices: Experiment with different spice blends depending on what you have on hand or prefer.
• Rice: For a healthier option, use quinoa or cauliflower rice instead of traditional rice.

Author’s Commentary

As someone who loves creating vibrant and nourishing meals, this Vegan Red Beans and Rice recipe holds a special place in my heart. Not only does it bring comfort, but it also showcases how delicious plant-based cooking can be. The depth of flavor achieved through the combination of spices and the smoky undertones from the liquid smoke make this dish a standout. Plus, it’s perfect for gatherings, as it can easily be scaled up to feed a crowd. I encourage you to get creative with the ingredients and make it your own!

Save It for Later

This Vegan Red Beans and Rice recipe is perfect for meal prepping. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days, or freeze portions to enjoy later. Simply reheat in the microwave or on the stove until warmed through. You’ll love having a hearty meal ready to go on busy days!

Your Top Questions

Can I use canned beans instead of dried?

Yes! If you’re short on time, you can substitute 2 cans of red kidney beans (drained and rinsed) for the dried beans. Adjust the cooking time accordingly, as canned beans only need to be heated through.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Absolutely! This Vegan Red Beans and Rice recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities. Just double-check that your vegetable bouillon cubes are gluten-free as well.

How can I make this dish spicier?

If you like a kick of heat, add diced jalapeños, a dash of cayenne pepper, or hot sauce to the mix. You can also increase the amount of Cajun seasoning for more spice.

What can I serve with Vegan Red Beans and Rice?

This dish is delicious on its own, but you can serve it with a side of cornbread, a fresh salad, or some sautéed greens for a complete meal.

Don’t Miss These

• Cajun Spiced Roasted Vegetables
• Vegan Jambalaya
• Smoky Lentil Soup
• Classic Vegan Gumbo

Let’s Eat

This Vegan Red Beans and Rice recipe is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings warmth and joy to your kitchen. With its rich flavors, nourishing ingredients, and the ability to please a crowd, you’ll find yourself making this dish time and again. Enjoy every bite!