Spicy Vegan Cajun Rice

Ingredients

• 4 slices Plant-Based Bacon (sliced, smoked flavor preferred)
• 2 links Tofurky Sausage (any vegan sausage works, sliced lengthwise)
• 1/2 large Onion (chopped)
• 3 cloves Garlic (minced)
• 2 stalks Celery (chopped)
• 2 Bell Pepper (any colors, diced)
• 1 can Rotel Diced Tomatoes with Green Chilies (14.5 oz, undrained)
• 1 tsp Sea Salt
• 1/2 tsp Black Pepper (freshly ground)
• 1 tsp Cayenne Pepper (adjust to heat preference)
• 2 tbsp Creole Seasoning (Tony's or any Cajun blend)
• 2 cups Vegetable Broth (low sodium)
• 1 cup Long Grain White Rice (uncooked)

Instructions

1. Toast Plant‑Based Bacon

   Heat the skillet over medium‑high heat, add the plant‑based bacon slices and sauté until they are lightly browned and crisp, about 3 minutes.

   Time: PT3M

   Temperature: Medium‑high

2. Brown the Vegan Sausage

   Push the bacon to one side, add the sliced Tofurky sausage to the same skillet and cook each side until lightly browned, about 5 minutes.

   Time: PT5M

   Temperature: Medium‑high

3. Season and Remove Meat

   Season the bacon and sausage with a pinch of sea salt and black pepper, then transfer them to a plate and set aside.

   Time: PT1M

4. Sauté Onion and Garlic

   In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onion becomes translucent, about 3 minutes.

   Time: PT3M

   Temperature: Medium

5. Add Celery and Bell Peppers

   Stir in the chopped celery and diced bell peppers. Sauté until the vegetables are tender but still crisp, about 4 minutes.

   Time: PT4M

   Temperature: Medium

6. Incorporate Rotel Tomatoes

   Pour the entire can of Rotel (including liquid) into the skillet and mix well. Cook for 2 minutes to combine flavors.

   Time: PT2M

   Temperature: Medium

7. Season the Veggies

   Add sea salt, black pepper, cayenne pepper, and Creole seasoning. Stir thoroughly to distribute the spices evenly.

   Time: PT1M

8. Add Broth and Uncooked Rice

   Pour in 2 cups of vegetable broth and sprinkle the uncooked rice over the mixture. Stir to combine, ensuring the rice is submerged.

   Time: PT2M

   Temperature: Medium

9. Return Bacon and Sausage

   Add the previously cooked bacon and sausage back into the skillet. Mix everything together.

   Time: PT1M

10. Bring to a Rapid Boil

    Increase the heat to high and bring the mixture to a rapid boil, about 4 minutes.

    Time: PT4M

    Temperature: High

11. Simmer Until Moisture Evaporates

    Reduce heat to low, uncover the skillet, and let the rice simmer, stirring occasionally, until all liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender, about 15 minutes. If excess moisture remains, continue cooking uncovered, checking every few minutes.

    Time: PT15M

    Temperature: Low

12. Final Rest

    Turn off the heat, cover the skillet with the lid, and let the dish rest for 2 minutes before serving.

    Time: PT2M

Nutrition Facts

Calories

350

Protein

12g

Carbohydrates

55g

Fat

8g

Fiber

4g

Ingredient Substitutions

• Instead of Plant-Based Bacon: Smoked tempeh, Smoked tofu strips
• Instead of Tofurky Sausage: Other brand vegan sausage, Vegan chorizo
• Instead of Onion: Shallots, Leeks
• Instead of Garlic: Garlic powder (1/2 tsp)
• Instead of Celery: Fennel stalks, Carrot sticks
• Instead of Bell Pepper: Poblano pepper, red pepper flakes for heat
• Instead of Rotel Diced Tomatoes with Green Chilies: Crushed tomatoes, Diced tomatoes without chilies
• Instead of Sea Salt: Kosher salt
• Instead of Black Pepper: White pepper
• Instead of Cayenne Pepper: Paprika, Hot sauce (1 tbsp)
• Instead of Creole Seasoning: Homemade Cajun blend
• Instead of Vegetable Broth: Water + bouillon cube
• Instead of Long Grain White Rice: Brown rice (increase broth), Quinoa

Equipment Needed

• Large Skillet
• Cutting Board
• Chef's Knife
• Measuring Cups
• Measuring Spoons
• Wooden Spoon or Spatula
• Skillet Lid

Critical Steps — Do Not Skip

• Toasting the plant‑based bacon until crisp adds smoky depth.
• Ensuring the rice fully absorbs the broth; cook uncovered to evaporate excess moisture.
• Adjusting heat after the rapid boil to prevent burning the bottom layer.

Chef Tips from the Video

• Toast the rice briefly (2 minutes) before adding broth for a nuttier flavor.
• Add a pinch of smoked paprika with the Creole seasoning for extra depth.
• Use low‑sodium broth to control the salt level.

Troubleshooting

Storage

Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

Freezer: Freeze in a freezer‑safe bag for up to 2 months; reheat gently with a splash of broth.

Room temperature: Do not leave at room temperature for more than 2 hours.

Make-Ahead Tips

• Chop all vegetables up to 24 hours ahead and store in a sealed container in the fridge.
• Cook the rice and meat separately, then combine and reheat for a quick weeknight meal.
• The dish reheats well in a microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of broth.

Frequently Asked Questions