Vegan Copycat Popeyes Red Beans and Rice
Discover the ultimate plant-based take on a Southern classic with this Vegan Copycat Popeyes Red Beans and Rice recipe. Packed with bold Cajun flavors from smoky paprika, zesty onion powder, garlic powder, and liquid smoke, this hearty dish recreates the comforting essence of the original without any animal products. Rich in protein from tender red kidney beans and perfectly paired with fluffy white rice, it’s an irresistible combination that’s ready in under an hour. The creamy texture of the beans, lightly mashed for extra richness, harmonizes beautifully with the spices, while a bay leaf adds a subtle depth. Ideal as a satisfying vegan dinner or a crowd-pleasing side dish, this quick and easy recipe is sure to become a household favorite. Whether you're craving Southern comfort food or looking to elevate your weeknight meals, this vegan Popeyes-inspired creation is the perfect choice for flavor-packed indulgence.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 2 15-oz cans Canned red kidney beans
- 2 cups Vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon Liquid smoke
- 1 teaspoon Onion powder
- 1 teaspoon Garlic powder
- 0.5 teaspoon Paprika
- 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
- 1 tablespoon Olive oil
- 2 cups Cooked white rice
- 1 Bay leaf
- to taste Salt
- to taste Black pepper
Instructions
Drain and rinse the red kidney beans under cold water to remove excess sodium and any canning liquid.
In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the beans and stir to coat with oil.
Pour in the vegetable broth and add the bay leaf, onion powder, garlic powder, paprika, Cajun seasoning, and liquid smoke. Stir to combine all ingredients.
Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat. Once it begins to simmer, reduce the heat to low and cover the saucepan.
Allow the beans to cook for 25–30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the liquid has thickened and the flavors have melded together.
Remove the bay leaf and use a potato masher or the back of a spoon to slightly mash the beans, leaving some whole for texture.
Adjust the seasoning with salt and black pepper to taste.
Simultaneously, cook the white rice according to package directions if not prepared ahead of time.
To serve, place a scoop of the red beans over a bed of cooked rice. Enjoy it warm as a filling and flavorful meal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
1478 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 22.6 g | 29% | |
| Saturated Fat | 4.0 g | 20% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 3.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 7239 mg | 315% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 258.7 g | 94% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 48.5 g | 173% | |
| Total Sugars | 11.3 g | ||
| Protein | 64.0 g | 128% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 389 mg | 30% | |
| Iron | 21.1 mg | 117% | |
| Potassium | 3681 mg | 78% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
