This recipe you’ll make Every Week Guaranteed
THIS recipe you’ll make EVERY WEEK Guaranteed! is a medium Mexican recipe that serves 5. 460 calories per serving. Recipe by Yeung Man Cooking on YouTube.
Prep: 30 min | Cook: 30 min | Total: 1 hr 15 min
Cost: $21.57 total, $4.31 per serving
Ingredients
- 1 medium head Green Leaf Lettuce (shredded thinly; Romaine or Iceberg can be used)
- 1 small Red Onion (finely chopped)
- 4 Roma Tomatoes (diced)
- 0.75 cup Cilantro (roughly chopped; divided for fresh garnish and sauce)
- 2 Lime (freshly squeezed juice)
- 3 Avocado (ripe, mashed to desired texture, seasoned with salt, pepper, lime)
- 1 cup Mayonnaise (regular or vegan mayo)
- 0.25 cup Sriracha (adjust heat to taste)
- 2 tablespoons Water (for mayo) (thins the spicy mayo)
- 0.5 cup Cashews (unsalted, raw; for cilantro‑lime sauce)
- 2 teaspoons Salt (divided between sauces and cooking)
- 4 tablespoons Olive Oil (divided for rice and beans sauté)
- 2 cups Long Grain Rice (rinsed 2‑3 times)
- 6 cloves Garlic (3 for rice, 3 for beans; minced)
- 2 Jalapeño (seeds removed, finely chopped; one for rice, one for beans)
- 2 teaspoons Smoked Paprika
- 2 teaspoons Sweet Paprika
- 0.5 teaspoon Dried Oregano
- 2 cans (400 ml each) Pinto Beans (drained and rinsed)
- 1 cup Plant‑Based Shredded Cheddar Cheese (optional topping)
Instructions
Shred the Lettuce
Remove the core of the lettuce head and thinly shred the leaves using a sharp knife or a mandoline. Place the shredded lettuce in a large mixing bowl.
Time: PT5M
Prep Fresh Veggies & Avocado
Finely chop the red onion, dice the Roma tomatoes, and roughly chop 1/4 cup cilantro. Halve the avocados, remove pits, scoop flesh into a bowl, add a pinch of salt, cracked pepper, and the juice of one lime. Mash to desired texture.
Time: PT10M
Make Spicy Mayo
In a small bowl whisk together 1 cup mayonnaise, 1/4 cup sriracha, and 2 tbsp water until smooth. Transfer to a squeeze bottle for easy drizzling.
Time: PT5M
Blend Cilantro‑Lime Cashew Sauce
Combine 70 g cilantro, 1/2 cup raw cashews, 1 tsp salt, juice of one lime, and 1/3 cup water in a high‑speed blender. Blend on high until completely liquefied.
Time: PT5M
Cook the Seasoned Rice
Rinse 2 cups rice in a colander 2‑3 times, then drain. In a medium saucepan heat 2 tbsp olive oil over medium heat. Add 1 finely chopped onion, 1 chopped jalapeño (seeds removed), and sauté 5‑7 minutes until softened. Add 3 minced garlic cloves, 2 tsp smoked paprika, 2 tsp sweet paprika, ½ tsp dried oregano, and 1 tsp salt; stir for 30 seconds. Add the diced tomatoes and cook 2‑3 minutes until they release moisture. Stir in the rinsed rice, then add 2 cups water. Bring to a boil, reduce to medium‑low, cover, and simmer 15 minutes. Turn off heat and let steam, covered, another 10 minutes.
Time: PT25M
Temperature: Medium‑low
Prepare the Pinto Beans
Drain and rinse two 400 ml cans of pinto beans. In a skillet heat 2 tbsp olive oil over medium heat. Add 1 finely chopped onion and 1 chopped jalapeño; sauté 5‑6 minutes. Add 3 minced garlic cloves, 2 tsp sweet paprika, 2 tsp smoked paprika, and 1 tsp salt; stir for 30 seconds. Add the beans and 1 cup water; cook 3‑4 minutes, stirring occasionally. Mash the beans with a fork or potato masher to a creamy‑but‑slightly‑chunky texture, adding a splash of water if needed. Remove from heat.
Time: PT12M
Temperature: Medium
Assemble the Burrito Bowls
Divide the shredded lettuce among 5 bowls. Top each with a generous scoop of seasoned rice, then a spoonful of mashed beans. Add avocado mash, diced tomatoes, red onion, and a sprinkle of plant‑based shredded cheddar. Drizzle the spicy mayo and cilantro‑lime cashew sauce over the top. Finish with a pinch of fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime if desired.
Time: PT5M
Nutrition Facts
- Calories
- 460
- Protein
- 12 g
- Carbohydrates
- 65 g
- Fat
- 15 g
- Fiber
- 10 g
Dietary info: Vegetarian, Can be made vegan with vegan mayo and cheese, Gluten‑free
Allergens: Tree nuts (cashews), Soy (mayonnaise), Potential dairy (if non‑vegan cheese used)
Ingredient Substitutions
- Instead of Green Leaf Lettuce: Romaine lettuce, Iceberg lettuce
- Instead of Red Onion: White onion, Yellow onion
- Instead of Roma Tomatoes: Vine‑ripe tomatoes
- Instead of Cilantro: Parsley (different flavor)
- Instead of Lime: Lemon juice
- Instead of Avocado: Mashed ripe banana (different flavor)
- Instead of Mayonnaise: Vegan mayo, Greek yogurt
- Instead of Sriracha: Hot sauce, Chili garlic sauce
- Instead of Cashews: Almonds, Sunflower seeds
- Instead of Salt: Sea salt, Kosher salt
- Instead of Olive Oil: Canola oil, Avocado oil
- Instead of Long Grain Rice: Basmati rice, Brown rice
- Instead of Garlic: Garlic powder (1 tsp)
- Instead of Jalapeño: Serrano pepper, Thai bird’s eye chili (more heat)
- Instead of Smoked Paprika: Regular paprika
- Instead of Sweet Paprika: Smoked paprika
- Instead of Dried Oregano: Mexican oregano
- Instead of Pinto Beans: Black beans, Kidney beans
- Instead of Plant‑Based Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Nutritional yeast, Vegan mozzarella shreds
Equipment Needed
- Cutting Board
- Chef Knife
- Mixing Bowls
- Blender
- Squeeze Bottle (optional)
- Medium Saucepan
- Skillet or Saute Pan
- Wooden Spoon
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
- Colander
- Fork or Potato Masher
- Serving Plates or Bowls
Critical Steps — Do Not Skip
- Shredding lettuce thinly to achieve a light base.
- Blending the cilantro‑lime cashew sauce until fully liquefied.
- Cooking rice with the tomato‑jalapeño deglaze to infuse flavor.
- Mashing beans to the right consistency—creamy yet with some texture.
Chef Tips from the Video
- Use a high‑power blender for a silky cashew sauce; a regular blender may need extra liquid.
- Fluff the rice with a fork after steaming to keep grains separate and airy.
- Taste the avocado mash before adding salt; the lime already provides acidity.
Troubleshooting
Rice is undercooked or too watery.
Cover and simmer an additional 5‑7 minutes; if still watery, remove lid and let excess moisture evaporate.
Cilantro‑lime sauce is too thick.
Add water a tablespoon at a time while blending until desired consistency is reached.
Beans become dry after sautéing.
Add a splash more water or broth during the final mash; keep the pan covered briefly to retain moisture.
Storage
Refrigerator: Sauces, cooked rice, and beans keep up to 4 days in airtight containers.
Freezer: Rice and beans freeze well for up to 2 months; thaw before reheating.
Room temperature: Fresh lettuce and avocado are best used the same day; avocado may brown if left uncovered.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Both sauces keep well sealed in the fridge for 3‑4 days.
- Cooked rice and beans can be prepared a day ahead and reheated with a splash of water.
- Shred lettuce and store in a dry container with a paper towel to absorb moisture.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cultural significance and history of the burrito bowl in Mexican cuisine?
The burrito bowl evolved from traditional Mexican burritos, offering a de‑constructed version that highlights each component. It became popular in the United States as a lighter, gluten‑free alternative while preserving the bold flavors of Mexican street food.
What are the traditional regional variations of burrito bowls in Mexican cuisine?
In northern Mexico, burrito bowls often feature grilled carne asada and pinto beans, while southern versions may include black beans, chipotle‑spiced rice, and fresh tomatillo salsa. Vegetarian versions like this one showcase local produce and plant‑based proteins.
How is a classic burrito bowl traditionally served in Mexico?
Traditionally, a burrito bowl is served in a shallow clay or ceramic bowl, layered with rice, beans, fresh salsa, guacamole, shredded lettuce, cheese, and a squeeze of lime. It is eaten with a fork or spoon, allowing each bite to combine flavors.
What occasions or celebrations is the burrito bowl traditionally associated with in Mexican culture?
Burrito bowls are popular at casual gatherings, family picnics, and street‑food festivals. Their customizable nature makes them ideal for potlucks and weekend brunches where guests can build their own bowls.
How does the veggie burrito bowl fit into the broader Mexican cuisine tradition?
It reflects Mexican cuisine’s emphasis on fresh herbs, bright citrus, and hearty legumes. By swapping meat for beans and adding a cashew‑based cilantro lime sauce, the dish stays true to Mexican flavor profiles while catering to plant‑based diets.
What are the authentic traditional ingredients for a burrito bowl versus acceptable substitutes?
Traditional ingredients include long‑grain white rice, pinto or black beans, fresh cilantro, lime, avocado, and cheese. Acceptable substitutes are brown rice, quinoa, cashew‑based sauces for dairy‑free diets, and plant‑based cheese alternatives.
What other Mexican dishes pair well with this veggie burrito bowl?
Serve alongside fresh pico de gallo, corn elote (grilled Mexican street corn), or a side of chipotle‑lime roasted sweet potatoes for a balanced Mexican‑style meal.
What makes this veggie burrito bowl special or unique in Mexican cuisine?
The combination of a creamy cashew‑cilantro lime sauce and a spicy mayo adds layers of richness and heat not always found in traditional bowls, while the plant‑based cheese keeps it fully vegetarian.
What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making the veggie burrito bowl?
Common errors include over‑cooking the rice so it becomes mushy, mashing the beans into a pureed paste, and under‑seasoning the avocado mash. Keep each component distinct and taste as you go.
Why does this recipe use both smoked paprika and sweet paprika instead of just one paprika variety?
Smoked paprika adds a subtle wood‑smoked depth, while sweet paprika provides bright color and mild sweetness. Together they create a balanced flavor that mimics the complexity of traditional Mexican spice blends.
Can I make the veggie burrito bowl ahead of time and how should I store it?
Yes. Prepare the sauces, rice, and beans up to 24 hours ahead and store each in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Keep lettuce and avocado separate to maintain freshness; assemble just before serving.
What does the YouTube channel Yeung Man Cooking specialize in?
The YouTube channel Yeung Man Cooking, hosted by Will Yeung, specializes in easy‑to‑follow, plant‑based and versatile home‑cooking recipes that blend Asian influences with global comfort foods.
How does the YouTube channel Yeung Man Cooking's approach to Mexican‑inspired dishes differ from other cooking channels?
Yeung Man Cooking emphasizes ingredient accessibility, quick weeknight preparation, and plant‑based adaptations, often providing detailed sauce recipes and useful kitchen‑tool tips that set his videos apart from more traditional or meat‑centric Mexican cooking channels.
Last updated: August 29, 2026








