Puerto Rican Vegan “Pollo” with Creamy Chipotle Sauce
In the vibrant world of Puerto Rican cuisine, flavors are a celebration of the island’s rich cultural heritage. Today, we’re going to give a classic dish a delicious vegan twist, blending the bold flavors of Puerto Rico with the creamy, spicy kick of chipotle sauce.
The Dish: Puerto Rican Vegan “Pollo” with Creamy Chipotle Sauce
This recipe is a creative reinterpretation of traditional sesame chicken, infused with the heart and soul of Puerto Rican cooking. We’ll use tender and flavorful plant-based ingredients to create a dish that is both comforting and innovative.
Ingredients
For the “Pollo”:
- 1 pound extra-firm tofu, drained and cut into bite-sized pieces
- Alternatively, you can use tempeh or TVP (textured vegetable protein), which is easily available and affordable in Puerto Rico.
- 2 tbsp Puerto Rican Adobo (see below for recipe)
- 1 tsp Puerto Rican Sazón (see below for recipe)
- 1 tsp olive oil
- 1 cup mixed bell peppers (any color), sliced
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
For the Creamy Chipotle Sauce:
- 1/2 cup non-dairy yogurt (such as soy or coconut yogurt)
- 1/4 cup non-dairy mayonnaise
- 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, minced
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Puerto Rican Adobo:
- 2 tbsp garlic powder
- 2 tbsp onion powder
- 1 tbsp dried oregano
- 1 tbsp salt
- 1 tbsp black pepper
- 1 tsp paprika (optional)
Puerto Rican Sazón:
- 1 tbsp ground annatto (achiote)
- 1 tbsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp onion powder
- 1 tbsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp ground coriander
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
Instructions
Prepare the “Pollo”:
- Marinate the Tofu: In a large bowl, mix together the Adobo and Sazón. Add the tofu pieces and toss to coat evenly. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.
- Sauté the Tofu: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Remove the tofu from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off. Cook the tofu until golden brown on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Set aside.
Sauté the Vegetables:
- In the same skillet, add the sliced bell peppers, onion, and garlic. Cook until the vegetables are tender and lightly caramelized, about 8-10 minutes.
- Add the sliced mushrooms and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes.
Prepare the Creamy Chipotle Sauce:
- In a blender or food processor, combine the non-dairy yogurt, mayonnaise, chipotle peppers, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
Combine and Serve:
- Add the cooked tofu back into the skillet with the vegetables. Pour the Creamy Chipotle Sauce over the top and stir to combine.
- Reduce heat to low and simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro if desired.
Tips and Variations
- Balance the Flavors: For an extra depth of flavor, add a splash of vinegar to balance the richness of the dish.
- Use Sofrito for Added Flavor: If you want to add an extra layer of Puerto Rican flavor, sauté 2-3 tablespoons of Sofrito in oil before adding the vegetables.
- Serve with Traditional Sides: Enjoy this dish with white rice, roasted plantains, or alongside a hearty bowl of vegan sancocho for a truly authentic Puerto Rican meal.
Cultural Significance
Puerto Rican cuisine is a beautiful blend of Taíno, Spanish, and African influences. The use of Adobo, Sazón, and Sofrito in this recipe honors the traditional flavor profiles that have been passed down through generations. By substituting traditional meats with plant-based alternatives, we are not only making the dish more accessible but also celebrating the adaptability and innovation that defines Puerto Rican cooking.
This vegan “pollo” with creamy chipotle sauce is more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of culture, tradition, and the vibrant flavors that make Puerto Rican cuisine so beloved. So go ahead, take a bite, and let the flavors transport you to the heart of this enchanting island.
- Vegan Boricua Pantry Essentials