Vegan Puerto Rican Arroz con Habichuelas Recipe

Vegan Puerto Rican Arroz con Habichuelas: A Flavorful and Cultural Delight

In the heart of Puerto Rican cuisine, there’s a dish that warms the soul and fills the senses with vibrant flavors: Arroz con Habichuelas, or rice with beans. This traditional recipe is a staple in many Puerto Rican households, and with a few simple tweaks, it can be transformed into a delicious vegan version that everyone can enjoy.

The Cultural Significance

Arroz con Habichuelas is more than just a meal; it’s a symbol of community, family, and tradition. It’s often served at gatherings and celebrations, bringing people together with its comforting aroma and taste. By making it vegan, we’re not only adapting to modern dietary preferences but also ensuring that this beloved dish remains inclusive and accessible to everyone.

Ingredients

For this vegan version, we’ll use ingredients that are both authentic and plant-based.

• Rice: 1 cup of uncooked white or brown rice
• Beans: 1 cup of uncooked kidney beans or pinto beans (you can use canned beans if you prefer)
• Sofrito Base:
  • 1/4 cup Olive Oil or Annatto Oil
  • 12 cloves garlic, finely grated
  • 1 large white onion, diced
  • 1 red bell pepper, seeds and ribs removed, diced
  • 1 green bell pepper, seeds and ribs removed, diced
  • 1 Cubanelle pepper, seeds and ribs removed, diced
  • 5 ají dulce peppers, seeds and ribs removed
  • 1/2 cup cilantro, finely chopped
  • 7 sprigs of culantro (5 finely chopped, 2 whole)
  • 1 cup tomato sauce or puree
• Adobo Seasoning Blend:
  • 1 tbsp Kosher Salt
  • 1 tbsp Onion Powder
  • 1 tbsp Garlic Powder
  • 1 tbsp Smoked Paprika
  • 1 tsp Freshly Ground Black Pepper
  • 1 tsp Ground Cumin
  • 1 tsp Dried Oregano
• Optional Protein Source: If you want to add some extra protein, you can use TVP (Textured Vegetable Protein), which is easily available and very affordable in Puerto Rico. Alternatively, you can use beans as the primary protein source.
• Other Ingredients:
  • 2 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 tsp saffron threads (optional, for color and flavor)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • A splash of white vinegar (to balance flavors and add health benefits)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Sofrito Base:

   • In a food processor or blender, combine the olive oil, garlic, onion, red bell pepper, green bell pepper, Cubanelle pepper, and ají dulce peppers. Pulse until the ingredients are coarsely chopped.
   • Add the cilantro and culantro to the processor and pulse until the leaves are broken down.
   • Return the pepper and onion mixture to the processor and blend until semi-smooth, similar to chunky applesauce.

2. Cook the Rice and Beans:

   • Rinse the rice and beans, then soak the beans in water for at least 8 hours or overnight. Drain and set aside.
   • In a large pot, heat a couple of tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the sofrito base and cook until fragrant, about 5 minutes.
   • Add the Adobo Seasoning Blend and stir well to combine.
   • Add the soaked and drained beans, vegetable broth, saffron threads (if using), salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for about 45 minutes, or until the beans are tender.

3. Add the Rice:

   • Once the beans are cooked, add the rice to the pot. Stir well to combine with the bean mixture.
   • Add enough water to cover the rice and beans, then bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and fluffy.

4. Final Touches:

   • If using TVP, you can add it to the pot during the last 10 minutes of cooking. Season with additional Adobo Seasoning Blend if needed.
   • Just before serving, add a splash of white vinegar to balance the flavors and enhance the health benefits of the dish.

Serving and Enjoying

Arroz con Habichuelas is best served hot, garnished with fresh cilantro or culantro. This dish is perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or even a quick weeknight meal. The combination of the aromatic sofrito, the rich adobo seasoning, and the comforting rice and beans will transport you to the vibrant culture of Puerto Rico with every bite.

So go ahead, gather your loved ones, and share in the joy of this traditional yet modern vegan twist on a beloved classic. ¡Buen provecho

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