11 easy, one-pot vegan rice and beans recipes-healthy, hearty, and full of bold flavor. Perfect for busy weeknights and plant-based living.
Let's be honest-after a long day, the last thing you want is a sink full of dishes and a hot stove. That's where one-pot meals come to the rescue!
As a father of five, I've come to appreciate the simplicity and magic of combining rice and beans into hearty, nutritious dishes that don’t require much cleanup.
And, yes, you get all the essential amino acids and a complete protein file. (Let’s not have that conversation anymore…mmm kay?)
Personally, I think beans and rice are two of the most perfect foods on the planet. They can be used as an easy go-to side dish or a complete meal with very little effort.
So, if you’re in the same space as me and looking for a good rice and beans recipe, I’m here to make your life easier and tastier.
Use canned beans
Yes, I buy beans by the bag, and it’s very economical. But I’m also lazy. The last thing I want on most days is to soak beans and wait forever to cook them.
So, buy low-sodium or no-salt-added canned beans and make it quick! It cuts your cooking time to essentially nothing.
What types of beans do I need?
That, my friend, is entirely up to you. But your beans should fit the recipe you’re making. That being said, here are my faves to keep on hand.
- Chickpeas, black beans, and red kidney beans are great for meatier dishes and texture.
- White beans, yellow lentils, split peas, and red lentils are softer. They’re excellent for making dishes with a creamy texture.
- Pinto beans can play both sides of the fence, but are perfect for making refried beans or being used in chili.
What kind of rice is best?
If I’m honest, I’ll eat any rice in my pantry. However, brown rice is best because none of the nutrients have been stripped away. I love long grain brown rice and will also use white basmati as well.
Wild rice is also a good choice because it’s hearty and has a nutty flavor.
That being said, if all you have is white rice, EAT IT! It’s much healthier and kinder than eating an animal. Just sayin’.
How to make beans and rice exciting
It’s easy to liven up what some would say are boring ingredients. You only need a little creativity and a full spice rack to create a tasty meal with bold flavors.
Here are a few of my favorite ways to liven things up…
- Italian seasoning is a good blend of oregano, basil, parsley, and other herbs.
- Fresh herbs like chopped basil and fresh parsley are an absolute must as far as I’m concerned.
- Throw in a couple of bay leaves when cooking rice or beans.
- Garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, and red pepper flakes are perfect for savory and spicy dishes.
- Cook your rice in low-sodium vegetable broth instead of water. It adds more flavor.
- Sautéing red onion, green bell pepper, and fresh garlic is one of the best ways to add both flavor and texture to rice or beans.
Extra, extra…
If you’re feeling extra frisky, whip up my favorite meal. My vegan sausage crumbles mixed with brown rice, topped with diced avocado, and a little squeeze of lime juice. O..M…G!!!
11 Vegan Rice and Beans Recipes
Below, I've rounded up 11 of my favorite one-pot vegan rice and beans recipes. They're satisfying, require simple ingredients, and are packed with flavor. Let’s do this!
Brown Rice and Lentils (One Pot)
This dish is a staple in my kitchen. With just five ingredients-brown rice, lentils, onion, garlic powder, and vegetable broth-you get a protein-packed meal that’s both hearty and wholesome. It’s perfect for meal prep and freezes well for future meals.
Easy Black Beans
Need a quick side or a base for burritos? These easy black beans are ready in 15 minutes using canned beans, onion, garlic powder, cumin, and a chipotle pepper for a smoky kick. They’re versatile and can be paired with rice, tacos, or salads.
Vegan Stuffed Bell Peppers
While not a traditional one-pot dish, these stuffed bell peppers are worth the slight deviation. Filled with a smoky chipotle-flavored rice and black bean mixture, they’re baked to perfection and make for a satisfying meal. Plus, they’re oil-free and packed with flavor.
Instant Pot Vegan Chili
This chili is a game-changer. It’s a hearty dish that’s ready in about 30 minutes thanks to the Instant Pot, using both black and kidney beans and brown rice. It’s smoky, spicy, and perfect for those chilly nights.
Perfect Instant Pot Brown Rice
Mastering brown rice in the Instant Pot is a must. This method yields fluffy, perfectly cooked rice every time, serving as a great base for many dishes. It’s hands-off and ideal for batch cooking.
Sweet Potato Black Bean Chili
Combining sweet potatoes, black beans, and brown rice, this chili is both sweet and savory. It’s a comforting dish that’s perfect for meal prep and freezes well for future meals.
Easy Vegan Mexican Rice
This dish brings the flavors of Mexico to your table. Using white rice, black beans, tomato sauce, and a blend of spices, it’s a flavorful side or main dish that’s ready in about 30 minutes.
Authentic Louisiana Vegan Red Beans and Rice
Try this healthy version of the traditional Louisiana dish. Spice things up with this Cajun-inspired dish. Using red kidney beans, brown rice, and a blend of Cajun spices, it’s a hearty meal that’s both flavorful and filling.
Easy Vegan Paella
Transport yourself to Spain with this vegan paella. It’s a colorful and aromatic dish that’s perfect for special occasions or a fancy weeknight dinner using white rice, a mix of vegetables, and saffron.
Vegan Fried Rice (Oil-free)
Got leftover rice? Turn it into a delicious fried rice by sautéing it with vegetables, tofu, and a splash of soy sauce. It’s a quick and easy meal, ready in under 20 minutes. This recipe is low-fat and straightforward to make using fresh or frozen vegetables.
Vegetarian BBQ Baked Beans
Easy Vegan Barbecue Baked Beans. Cooked in a delicious homemade BBQ sauce that’s rich, tangy, sweet, smoky and delicious.
Top tips for success
If you’re going to make any of these, use these top tips!
- Use Quality Ingredients: Opt for low-sodium canned beans and fresh vegetables to enhance flavor.
- Storage: Leftover rice and beans can be placed in an airtight container and stored in the fridge for 5 days.
- Spice It Up: Don’t shy away from spices like cumin, chili powder, and smoked paprika-they add depth to your dishes.
- Batch Cook: Prepare larger quantities and store leftovers in airtight containers for easy meals throughout the week.
- Customize: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or plant-based proteins to these recipes to make them your own.
Food for thought
Remember, cooking can be fun and healthy. These one-pot rice and bean dishes are here to make life a little easier without compromising on taste. Happy cooking!
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Thanks for this great collection. Since my wife passed I’ve moved toward plant-based and rice and beans are at the top of my personal food pyramid. Still learning to cook. Appreciate your guidance!