Recreate the bold, smoky flavors of a beloved fast food classic with this Vegetarian Copycat Popeyes Red Beans and Rice recipe! Packed with creamy red kidney beans simmered in a rich blend of smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and liquid smoke, this dish delivers all the savory depth you craveβminus the meat. Perfectly balanced by fluffy white rice, itβs an irresistible comfort food thatβs both easy and quick to prepare, taking just 35 minutes from start to finish. With soy sauce and vegetable broth adding umami-rich complexity, this recipe is ideal for vegetarians looking for a hearty, Louisiana-inspired meal. Serve this flavorful dish as a main course or side, and enjoy the authentic taste of Popeyes right in your kitchen!
Drain and rinse the canned red kidney beans to remove any excess sodium and packing liquids.
In a large saucepan or medium pot, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat.
Add the rinsed beans and gently mash them with a potato masher, leaving some beans intact for texture.
Pour in the vegetable broth, stirring well to ensure the beans and broth are thoroughly mixed.
Add the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, liquid smoke, soy sauce, salt, and black pepper.
Stir all ingredients together and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
Reduce the heat to low and let the beans cook uncovered for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and to allow the flavors to meld.
Meanwhile, prepare the white rice according to the package instructions if it's not already cooked.
After the beans have thickened and flavors have developed, adjust seasoning to taste if needed.
Serve the red beans over a bed of cooked white rice. Enjoy your flavorful vegetarian version of Popeyes Red Beans and Rice.
Calories |
1506 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 31.7 g | 41% | |
| Saturated Fat | 15.6 g | 78% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 1.3 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 62 mg | 21% | |
| Sodium | 5697 mg | 248% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 248.9 g | 91% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 46.3 g | 165% | |
| Total Sugars | 9.7 g | ||
| Protein | 63.3 g | 127% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 372 mg | 29% | |
| Iron | 20.5 mg | 114% | |
| Potassium | 3524 mg | 75% | |
*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.