Vegan Spanish Rice

Authentic Vegan Spanish Rice Recipe for a Flavorful Meal

Region / culture: Spain | Servings: 4 |

Vegan diet

Introduction

Vegan Spanish Rice is a delicious and flavorful dish that is perfect for a plant-based diet. This recipe is packed with vegetables and spices that will tantalize your taste buds.

History

Spanish rice, also known as Mexican rice, is a popular dish that is often served as a side dish in Mexican and Spanish cuisine. It is typically made with white rice, tomatoes, onions, and garlic. This vegan version of Spanish rice puts a healthy twist on the traditional recipe by using brown rice and adding a variety of vegetables.

Ingredients

0.5 cup uncooked brown rice
2 cups water
1 tbsp wine vinegar
water
4 cloves garlic
4 stalks celery
1 green pepper
1 carrot
1 bay leaf
1 small can stewed tomatoes
1 tsp dry oregano
1 tsp dry basil
0.25 tsp cumin
fresh cilantro

How to prepare

Place the brown rice in a pot and cook it.
In a heavy skillet, combine vinegar and water. Cook chopped garlic, celery, and green pepper in the skillet.
Add enough water to the skillet to steam the carrot. Then, add chopped carrot and bay leaf. Cover the skillet.
Once the carrot is soft, add stewed tomatoes, oregano, basil, and cumin.

Variations

Add some black beans or corn for extra protein and flavor.
Top with avocado slices or a dollop of vegan sour cream for a creamy finish.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to cook the brown rice until it is tender but still slightly chewy.

- Be sure to steam the carrots until they are soft before adding the stewed tomatoes and spices.

- Feel free to adjust the seasonings to suit your taste preferences.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this Vegan Spanish Rice as a side dish with your favorite Mexican or Spanish-inspired main course, such as tacos or enchiladas.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to cook the brown rice according to package instructions to ensure it is cooked properly.

- Steam the carrots until they are soft before adding the tomatoes and spices to ensure they are fully cooked.

Ingredient Substitutions

Feel free to use white rice instead of brown rice if you prefer.

- You can use fresh tomatoes instead of canned if you have them on hand.

Make Ahead Tips

This Vegan Spanish Rice can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves before serving for a pop of color and flavor.

Pairing Recommendations

This Vegan Spanish Rice pairs well with a variety of dishes, such as vegan fajitas, burritos, or grilled vegetables.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Calories per serving: 150

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates: 30g

Fats

Total Fat: 1g

Proteins

Protein: 3g

Vitamins and minerals

This dish is rich in vitamins A and C, as well as potassium and fiber.

Alergens

This recipe is free of common allergens such as dairy, eggs, and nuts.

Summary

This Vegan Spanish Rice is a nutritious and delicious dish that is low in fat and calories, but high in fiber and essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Vegan Spanish Rice is a healthy and flavorful dish that is perfect for a plant-based diet. Packed with vegetables and spices, this dish is sure to become a new favorite in your recipe rotation.

How did I get this recipe?

I have a clear memory of the first time I discovered this recipe for Vegan Spanish Rice. It was a warm summer day, and I had just returned from a trip to Spain where I had indulged in countless delicious dishes. One dish that stood out to me was the traditional Spanish rice, a flavorful and aromatic dish that was packed with vegetables and spices.

As soon as I returned home, I was determined to recreate this dish in a vegan-friendly version. I scoured through my collection of cookbooks and reached out to friends who shared a passion for cooking. After many trials and errors, I finally perfected the recipe for Vegan Spanish Rice that I am proud to share with you today.

The key to this dish lies in the combination of fresh, high-quality ingredients and the perfect balance of spices. I learned that the secret to achieving the rich and complex flavors of traditional Spanish rice lies in the use of smoked paprika, cumin, and a touch of saffron. These spices not only add depth to the dish but also create a beautiful aroma that fills the kitchen as the rice simmers away.

One of the most important lessons I learned while perfecting this recipe was the importance of patience. Cooking is an art that requires time and attention to detail. The process of slowly sautéing the onions and garlic until they are soft and fragrant, then adding the fresh tomatoes and bell peppers to create a rich base for the rice to cook in, is what sets this dish apart.

I also discovered the importance of using the right kind of rice. For this recipe, I recommend using a short-grain rice such as Arborio or Valencia rice. These varieties of rice are known for their ability to absorb flavors and create a creamy texture that is perfect for Spanish rice.

Another key component of this recipe is the addition of vegetable broth instead of traditional chicken broth. This not only makes the dish vegan-friendly but also adds a depth of flavor that enhances the overall taste of the dish.

As I continued to experiment with different variations of this recipe, I found that the addition of green peas and roasted red peppers added a burst of color and flavor that elevated the dish to a new level. The sweetness of the peas and the smokiness of the peppers complemented the spices and created a harmonious balance of flavors in each bite.

After many hours spent in the kitchen, tweaking and adjusting the recipe, I finally arrived at the perfect balance of flavors and textures that I had been striving for. The Vegan Spanish Rice that I had created was a testament to my love for cooking and my dedication to creating dishes that not only taste delicious but are also nourishing for the body and soul.

I am grateful for the journey that led me to this recipe and for the countless people who shared their knowledge and passion for cooking with me along the way. It is through their guidance and inspiration that I was able to create a dish that is not only a reflection of my culinary skills but also a celebration of the rich and vibrant flavors of Spanish cuisine.

I hope that you enjoy this recipe as much as I do and that it brings a taste of Spain into your home. Cooking is a beautiful and rewarding experience that allows us to connect with our heritage and create memories that will last a lifetime. So, grab your apron and get ready to embark on a culinary adventure with this Vegan Spanish Rice recipe that is sure to delight your taste buds and warm your heart. ¡Buen provecho!