Save to Pinterest This One-Pan Vegan Fajita Rice Skillet is a vibrant and satisfying meal that brings the bold flavors of Mexican-inspired cuisine to your table with minimal effort. Featuring smoky fajita vegetables, tender rice, and hearty black beans, it is the perfect solution for a flavorful and easy weeknight dinner that everyone will enjoy.
Save to Pinterest The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity. By cooking everything in a single skillet, the rice absorbs all the wonderful juices from the tomatoes and the aromatic spices, resulting in a depth of flavor that usually takes hours to achieve. It's a colorful feast that is as beautiful to look at as it is delicious to eat.
Ingredients
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 medium red onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 jalapeño, deseeded and sliced (optional)
- 1 cup long-grain white rice (or brown rice, rinsed)
- 1 (15 oz / 425 g) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (14.5 oz / 410 g) can diced tomatoes with juices
- 2 1/4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp ground coriander
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp salt (plus more to taste)
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- 1 lime, cut into wedges (for garnish)
- Sliced avocado or vegan sour cream (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1
- Heat a large, deep skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of olive oil or a few tablespoons of water for oil-free cooking.
- Step 2
- Add the sliced onions and bell peppers. Sauté for 4–5 minutes, until softened and lightly caramelized.
- Step 3
- Stir in the garlic and jalapeño. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Step 4
- Add the cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, coriander, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir to coat the vegetables evenly with the spices.
- Step 5
- Add the rice, black beans, diced tomatoes (with juices), and vegetable broth. Stir until well combined.
- Step 6
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 18–20 minutes (for white rice) or 40–45 minutes (for brown rice), until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
- Step 7
- Remove from heat and let sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork to separate the grains.
- Step 8
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt or pepper if needed.
- Step 9
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro, lime wedges, and optional toppings like avocado or vegan sour cream.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
To achieve the best results, ensure your skillet has a tight-fitting lid to trap the steam effectively. If you choose to use brown rice for its added fiber, remember to increase the liquid and cooking time as directed. Rinsing the rice before adding it to the pan helps remove excess starch for a fluffier texture.
Varianten und Anpassungen
This recipe is highly adaptable. For an extra boost of protein, try stirring in some cubed, sautéed tofu before serving. If you prefer a bit more heat and a deeper smokiness, add a pinch of chipotle powder to the spice mix. You can also swap out the black beans for pinto beans if you prefer their creamier texture.
Serviervorschläge
Serve this skillet steaming hot directly from the pan. A generous squeeze of fresh lime juice and a handful of chopped cilantro will brighten the smoky flavors perfectly. Leftovers keep well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, making this an excellent choice for meal prep lunches.
Save to Pinterest Whether you're cooking for your family or prepping meals for the week, this One-Pan Vegan Fajita Rice Skillet is a reliable, delicious, and healthy choice. Its bold colors and robust spices make every bite a celebration of plant-based ingredients.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I substitute brown rice in this dish?
Yes, brown rice can be used for added fiber. Just increase the simmering time to 40-45 minutes and adjust the vegetable broth accordingly.
- → What spices give the fajita flavor?
A blend of ground cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, coriander, and dried oregano creates the smoky, aromatic fajita taste.
- → Is it necessary to use oil when sautéing the vegetables?
No, a splash of olive oil is optional. You can also use water for oil-free cooking to soften the peppers and onions.
- → How can I add more protein to this meal?
Adding cubed, sautéed tofu just before serving boosts protein without altering the flavors significantly.
- → What garnishes complement this skillet meal?
Fresh cilantro, lime wedges, sliced avocado, or vegan sour cream enhance the flavors and add creamy, fresh notes.
- → How should leftovers be stored and used?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat on the stove or microwave until warm.