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Instructions:
1. Cook the Rice
Start by cooking your rice. In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of water or vegetable broth to a boil. Add the rice and a pinch of salt, reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes (or follow the package instructions). Once the rice is cooked, remove it from the heat and set it aside, covered, to keep warm.
2. Prepare the Green Beans
While the rice is cooking, trim the ends off your fresh green beans and cut them into smaller pieces if desired. If you’re using frozen green beans, there’s no need to chop them, just thaw them in a bowl with warm water or microwave them for a few seconds.
3. Cook the Onion and Garlic
In a large skillet or saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion softens and becomes translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
4. Add the Spices and Tomatoes
Add the smoked paprika, cumin, chili flakes, and chili powder to the pan, stirring them into the onions and garlic. This will bring out the full flavor of the spices. Then, add the diced tomatoes (with their juice), vegetable broth (or water), and soy sauce (or tamari). Stir everything together and bring it to a simmer.
5. Simmer the Green Beans
Add the green beans to the pan, stirring them into the sauce mixture. Cover and let the green beans cook in the sauce for about 10-15 minutes (or longer for more tender green beans), stirring occasionally. You want the green beans to become tender and well-coated in the flavorful sauce.
6. Adjust the Seasonings
Taste the sauce and add salt and pepper as needed. If you prefer a slightly sweeter dish to balance the heat, you can add maple syrup or agave syrup at this point. Stir in the fresh lemon juice for a burst of acidity if desired.
7. Serve Over Rice
Once the green beans are tender and the sauce has thickened, serve the spicy smothered green beans over the cooked rice. Be sure to spoon plenty of the delicious sauce over the top.
8. Garnish and Enjoy
If you like, garnish the dish with freshly chopped cilantro, a squeeze of lime juice, or a dollop of vegan sour cream for a creamy touch. Serve with a side of crusty bread for extra texture, if desired.
Tips and Variations
- Add More Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables to the mix, such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or even spinach. These additions will add more texture and nutrients to the dish.
- Make It Extra Spicy: If you like heat, consider adding a chopped jalapeño pepper or a splash of hot sauce for an extra kick.
- Use Brown Rice: For a more nutritious version, opt for brown rice, which adds more fiber and a nutty flavor to the dish.
- Add Protein: If you want to make the dish more filling, add some plant-based protein such as tofu, tempeh, or chickpeas to the green bean mixture.
- Meal Prep: This dish is great for meal prepping. You can store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, and it reheats well. You can also freeze it for longer storage.
Conclusion
Vegan Spicy Smothered Green Beans Over Rice is a delightful plant-based meal that combines savory, spicy, and comforting flavors into one dish. It’s easy to prepare, customizable, and packed with nutrients. Whether you’re serving it as a weeknight dinner or preparing it for a special occasion, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite in your kitchen.
With its tender green beans, rich sauce, and fluffy rice, this dish is the perfect balance of heat, flavor, and comfort. So, next time you’re looking for a hearty vegan meal that’s both delicious and satisfying, give this recipe a try—you won’t be disappointed!
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