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Instructions:
1. Cook the Rice:
- In a medium pot, bring 2 cups of water to a boil. Add a pinch of salt and stir in 1 cup of rice. Lower the heat, cover the pot, and simmer for about 15 minutes (or follow the package instructions) until the rice is fully cooked and the water is absorbed. Set aside and keep covered to stay warm.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
- In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons of oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper (if using) and sauté for about 5 minutes until they become soft and fragrant.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes, being careful not to burn the garlic.
3. Add the Green Beans and Spices:
- Add the green beans to the skillet and stir well to combine. Season with smoked paprika, ground cumin, chili powder, and cayenne pepper (if using). Stir everything together, allowing the green beans to absorb the spices for a minute or so.
4. Prepare the Spicy Smothering Sauce:
- Add the diced tomatoes (with juices), coconut milk, soy sauce, and tomato paste to the skillet. Stir until everything is combined, and the sauce begins to thicken.
- Pour in your hot sauce (start with 1 tablespoon and add more if you want extra heat). Stir everything together and bring it to a simmer. Let the green beans cook in the sauce for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the beans are tender and the sauce has thickened. If the sauce becomes too thick, you can add a little more coconut milk or water to loosen it up.
5. Taste and Adjust:
- Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add more salt, pepper, or hot sauce if you prefer a spicier kick.
- Once the green beans are tender and the sauce is rich and flavorful, remove the skillet from heat.
6. Serve:
- Spoon the cooked rice onto plates or into bowls, and top with a generous serving of the spicy, smothered green beans. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro if desired for an added burst of freshness.
Why This Recipe Works:
- Bold Flavors: The combination of hot sauce, smoked paprika, cumin, and cayenne pepper creates a flavorful and spicy sauce that coats the green beans perfectly. The coconut milk balances the heat with a rich, creamy texture.
- One-Pot Meal: This dish is easy to prepare and doesn’t require a lot of cleanup. Everything cooks in one skillet, making it an excellent option for busy nights or casual family meals.
- Vegan Comfort Food: The dish offers the comfort of hearty vegetables and satisfying rice, all while being completely plant-based. It’s a great alternative to traditional smothered dishes that might include meat or dairy.
- Customizable: You can adjust the spice level to your preference and add more vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or mushrooms for extra texture and flavor. You could also top it with vegan cheese or avocado for a creamy twist.
Tips for Success:
- Adjusting the Spice Level: If you’re not a fan of too much heat, start with less hot sauce and cayenne pepper, then gradually increase the spice level to suit your taste.
- Serving Variations: You can serve this dish over quinoa or couscous for a different base. Or, if you prefer a more protein-packed option, serve with a side of vegan lentils or chickpeas.
- Meal Prep: This recipe stores well in the fridge for 2-3 days, making it a great option for meal prepping. The flavors even get better as they sit!
Serving Suggestions:
- Side Salad: Pair this dish with a refreshing side salad, such as a cucumber and tomato salad or a simple green salad with a lemon vinaigrette, to balance the richness of the spicy smothered green beans.
- Bread: Serve with a warm loaf of crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce. A side of garlic bread also makes a delicious addition.
Conclusion:
Vegan Spicy Smothered Green Beans Over Rice is the perfect dish when you want something hearty, flavorful, and satisfying. The spicy, rich sauce smothering the tender green beans pairs wonderfully with the soft, fluffy rice for a meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table. Whether you’re a vegan or just craving a flavorful plant-based meal, this dish is a must-try. It’s simple to make, full of flavor, and packed with plant-based goodness. Give it a try, and you’ll see why it’s bound to become a favorite in your recipe collection!
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