Black Bean Jambalaya | Easy One-Pot Vegan Recipe

Treat yourself to Black Bean Jambalaya for dinner tonight – a super flavorful and healthy dish that's easy to make. This recipe combines wholesome brown rice, black beans, and a mix of veggies, creating a satisfying and nutrient-packed meal. With earthy mushrooms, bell peppers, and flavorful spices, this jambalaya is not only delicious but also supports a balanced, plant-based lifestyle. This vegan version will prove to you that meats are not necessary for a flavorful jambalaya recipe.

This vegan jambalaya recipe is:

• quick and easy to make right on the stove top
• a great week night meal
• budget friendly
• a simple one-pot meal
• prefect for meal prep
• versatile (use any combination of vegetables and beans you would like)
• packed with vegetables and super healthy

Let's take a look at the health benefits of the main ingredients in this vegetarian jambalaya:

1. Brown Rice:
   • Whole Grain: Brown rice is a whole grain, meaning it contains all parts of the grain, including the bran, germ, and endosperm. This results in higher fiber content, supporting digestion and providing a steady release of energy.
   • Rich in Nutrients: Brown rice is a good source of essential nutrients such as magnesium, phosphorus, selenium, thiamine, and niacin. These nutrients play vital roles in bone health, metabolism, and overall well-being.
   • Possible Substitutions: White rice or basmati rice can also be used.
2. Black Beans:
   • Plant-Based Protein: Black beans are an excellent source of plant-based protein, offering a healthy alternative to animal proteins. Protein is essential for muscle repair, immune function, and overall body maintenance.
   • Fiber-Rich: High in dietary fiber, black beans promote digestive health, regulate blood sugar levels, and contribute to a feeling of fullness, supporting weight management.
   • Possible Substitutions: Other beans, such as red kidney beans, red beans, or pinto beans could be used.
3. Vegetables (Mushrooms, Red Pepper, Yellow Onion, Celery, Garlic):
   • Antioxidant Power: Vegetables in the jambalaya, such as bell peppers and mushrooms, provide antioxidants that combat oxidative stress and inflammation in the body, contributing to overall health.
   • Vitamins and Minerals: Onions and garlic are rich in vitamins C and B6, while celery adds a dose of vitamin K. These nutrients play roles in immune support, energy metabolism, and bone health.
   • Possible Substitutions: Feel free to use additional vegetables or substitutes such as red onion, green bell pepper, zucchini, yellow squash, or any vegetable of your chosing.
4. Tomato Puree and Stewed Tomatoes:
   • Lycopene Boost: Tomatoes contain lycopene, a powerful antioxidant linked to various health benefits, including heart health and reduced risk of certain cancers.
   • Vitamins and Minerals: Tomatoes are a good source of vitamins A and C, potassium, and folate, supporting immune function, vision, and cardiovascular health.
   • Possible Substitutions: Diced tomatoes can be substituted for stewed tomatoes.
5. Spices (Oregano, Black Pepper, Cayenne, Hot Sauce):
   • Anti-Inflammatory and Antioxidant: Oregano and black pepper contain compounds with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, supporting overall well-being.
   • Metabolism Boost: Cayenne adds a spicy kick and may boost metabolism, aiding in weight management.
   • Adjust the amount of cayenne to your liking.

1. Cook Brown Rice:
   • In a medium saucepan, combine 1 cup of brown rice with 2 cups of vegetable broth.
   • Bring the mixture to a simmer, stir, cover, and cook over medium-low heat for about 35 minutes or until the rice is tender.
   • Once cooked, set the rice aside.
2. Prepare Vegetables:
   • In a large pot, heat 1-2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil over medium heat.
   • Add sliced mushrooms, diced red bell pepper, diced onion, diced celery, and minced garlic to the pot.
   • Cook the vegetables for 6-7 minutes or until they become tender.
3. Seasoning:
   • Add 1 tablespoon of oregano, ½ teaspoon of black pepper, and ½ teaspoon of salt to the pot.
   • Stir the spices into the vegetables and cook for about 30 seconds to enhance the flavors.
4. Tomato Base:
   • Pour in the tomato puree and stewed tomatoes into the pot, breaking up the stewed tomatoes slightly.
   • Add ½ teaspoon of ground cayenne and 1-2 teaspoons of hot sauce for a zesty kick.
5. Simmer:
   • Cook the mixture over low-medium heat in a dutch oven for 15-20 minutes, stirring periodically to blend the flavors and breaking up the tomatoes.
6. Incorporate Rice:
   • Turn off the heat and fold in the prepared brown rice, ensuring an even distribution of ingredients.
7. Serve:
   • Dish out the Black Bean and Brown Rice Jambalaya into large bowls.
   • Garnish with parsley, jalapeno slices, green onion or your toppings of choice.
8. Enjoy:
   • Serve the jambalaya warm, savoring the delicious blend of textures and flavors in each hearty bite.

Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your Black Bean and Brown Rice Jambalaya experience:

1. Fresh Herbs:
   • Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or cilantro over the jambalaya just before serving.
2. Lemon:
   • Serve the jambalaya with wedges of lime or lemon on the side. A squeeze of citrus juice can elevate the flavors and provide a nice contrast.
3. Avocado Slices:
   • Garnish each serving with creamy avocado slices. The richness of avocado complements the dish and adds creaminess.
4. Jalapeño Kick:
   • For those who enjoy some heat, add thinly sliced jalapeño peppers as a topping. It brings an extra kick and a pop of color.
5. Dollop of Greek Yogurt or Sour Cream:
   • A dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream on top can add a cool and tangy element to balance the spiciness.
6. Cheese Topping:
   • Grate some cheddar or pepper jack cheese and sprinkle it over the hot jambalaya. The melted cheese adds richness and depth.
7. Green Onion Garnish:
   • Finely chop green onions and sprinkle them over the dish for a mild onion flavor and a touch of green color.
8. Side of Crusty Bread:
   • Serve the jambalaya with a side of crusty bread or warm dinner rolls. The bread can be used to scoop up jambalaya.
9. Side Salad:
   • Accompany the jambalaya with a simple side salad for added freshness. A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette works well.

Yes, you can substitute white rice for brown rice in this recipe. However, keep in mind that white rice has a shorter cooking time than brown rice, so adjust the cooking duration accordingly to ensure it becomes tender.

This jambalaya reheats well. Prepare the dish as instructed, let it cool, and store it in an airtight container with a tight-fitting lid in the refrigerator. When ready to enjoy, simply reheat on the stove or in the microwave until heated through.

The spice level can be adjusted based on personal preferences. If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the amount of cayenne pepper and hot sauce. For those who enjoy more heat, feel free to increase these ingredients or add extra hot sauce when serving. Adjusting the spice level allows you to tailor the jambalaya to your taste.

You can enhance the flavor of your Black Bean and Brown Rice Jambalaya by incorporating Cajun seasoning. Add it to the sautéed vegetables for a bold and spicy kick, adjusting the quantity based on your taste preferences. This addition will infuse your jambalaya with the vibrant flavors characteristic of Cajun jambalaya.

You can definitely use plant-based alternatives like vegan sausage or plant-based chorizo. Sauté the chosen meat substitute with the vegetables, season it with spices, and proceed with the recipe as usual. If you prefer to use meat, like what is found in traditional jambalaya, andouille sausage or the meat of your choice can be used in the same way.

Black Bean Jambalaya

Treat yourself to Black Bean Jambalaya for dinner tonight – a super flavorful and healthy dish that's easy to make. This recipe combines wholesome brown rice, black beans, and a mix of veggies, creating a satisfying and nutrient-packed meal. With earthy mushrooms, bell peppers, and flavorful spices, this jambalaya is not only delicious but also supports a balanced, plant-based lifestyle. This vegan version will prove to you that meats are not necessary for a flavorful jambalaya recipe.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 25 minutes mins

Course Main Course

Cuisine vegan

Servings 6 people

Equipment

• 1 large pot or dutch oven

Ingredients

  

• 1 cup brown rice
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 1-2 T olive oil
• 8 ounces baby bella mushrooms sliced
• 1 red bell pepper diced
• 1 medium onion diced
• 2 celery stalks diced
• 4 cloves garlic minced
• 1 can 15 ounce tomato puree
• 1 can 15 ounce stewed tomatoes
• 1 T oregano
• ½ t black pepper
• ½ t salt
• ½ t ground cayenne
• 1-2 t hot sauce

Instructions

 

• In a medium saucepan, cook the rice in vegetable broth. Combine the rice and broth, bring to a simmer. Stir, then cover and cook over medium-low heat until the rice is tender (about 35 minutes). If the package directions for your brown rice are different, follow the package directions. Remove from heat and set aside.
• In a large pot, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the vegetables and cook for 6-7 minutes or until tender.
• Add the oregano, pepper and salt and cook for about 30 seconds.
• Add the remaining ingredients.
• Cook over medium-low heat for 15-20 minutes. Stir periodically and break up the tomatoes a bit.
• Turn off the heat and fold in the prepared rice.
• Serve warm in large bowls. Sprinkle with parsley, jalapeno pepper, green onions, or other toppings of your choice.

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