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Sweet Potato Nachos with Cilantro-Lime Sour Cream

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Sweet Potato Nachos with Cilantro-Lime Sour Cream -- Epicurean Vegan

I really didn’t mean to take such a long hiatus from posting. Between work and The Eighteen-year-old’s graduation, it’s been a busy spring. Here’s a quick and yummy recipe that is perfect for enjoying out on the deck. I’ve come learn that there are few rules when it comes to nachos, so here’s my delicious and hearty take on a classic.

INGREDIENTS:
2 large sweet potatoes or yams, cut into 1/2″ slices
Olive oil
Garlic salt
Black pepper
5 to 6-oz of a Daiya Jalapeno Havarti Style Block, shredded
1-1/4 C vegan sour cream
1 C fresh cilantro leaves
1 Tbs lime juice
1/4 tsp salt
Toppings
2 15-oz cans black beans, drained and rinsed
Green onion
Black olives
Salsa
Pepitas

DIRECTIONS:
Preheat oven to 450. Line a baking sheet with foil and place the sweet potato slices on the sheet. Brush with olive oil and sprinkle with garlic salt and black pepper. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until tender and browned. Sprinkle with the vegan cheese and bake another 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese in melted.

Sweet Potato Nachos with Cilantro-Lime Sour Cream -- Epicurean Vegan

In the meantime, over low heat, warm the black beans in a saucepan. Combine the sour cream, cilantro, lime juice, and salt in a food processor and blend well. Transfer to a squeeze bottle or bowl. Once the cheese is melted on the sweet potatoes, immediately top 3-4 on individual plates with black beans, sauce, and other toppings. Enjoy!

Sweet Potato Nachos with Cilantro-Lime Sour Cream
 
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I really didn't mean to take such a long hiatus from posting. Between work and The Eighteen-year-old's graduation, it's been a busy spring. Here's a quick and yummy recipe that is perfect for enjoying out on the deck. I've come learn that there are few rules when it comes to nachos, so here's my delicious and hearty take on a classic.
Author:
Serves: 5
Ingredients
  • 2 large sweet potatoes or yams, cut into ½" slices
  • Olive oil
  • Garlic salt
  • Black pepper
  • 5 to 6-oz of a Daiya Jalapeno Havarti Style Block, shredded
  • 1-1/4 C vegan sour cream
  • 1 C fresh cilantro leaves
  • 1 Tbs lime juice
  • ¼ tsp salt
  • Toppings
  • 2 15-oz cans black beans, drained and rinsed
  • Green onion
  • Black olives
  • Salsa
  • Pepitas
Directions
  1. Preheat oven to 450.
  2. Line a baking sheet with foil and place the sweet potato slices on the sheet. Brush with olive oil and sprinkle with garlic salt and black pepper. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until tender and browned.
  3. Sprinkle with the vegan cheese and bake another 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese in melted.
  4. In the meantime, over low heat, the warm the black beans in a saucepan.
  5. Combine the sour cream, cilantro, lime juice, and salt in a food processor and blend well. Transfer to a squeeze bottle or bowl.
  6. Once the cheese is melted on the sweet potatoes, immediately top 3-4 on individual plates with black beans, sauce, and other toppings. Enjoy!

 

Layered Mexican Casserole with a Creamy Cilantro-Chipotle Sauce

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Layered Mexican Casserole with a creamy cilantro-chipotle sauce -- Epicurean Vegan

I started out thinking I was going to make this King Ranch Casserole, but I had this amazing chipotle paste my mom gave me that she picked up at Sur la table and figured I could liven up this dish.
Layered Mexican Casserole, Chipotle PasteIt gave the sauce a spicy, smoky flavor that was unique and flavorful. I also had some leftover taco ingredients from the other night, so this dish was meant to be. Sure, it’s got your typical Mexican ingredients such as black beans, onions, and bell pepper, but I also threw in some mushrooms and kale. The creamy sauce makes it happen though! Creamy, flavorful and just the right amount of spice.

INGREDIENTS:
1 Tbs olive oil
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 red bell pepper, chopped
1/2 large onion, chopped
2 C mushrooms, sliced
1 bunch of kale, torn or chopped into bite-sized pieces
15-oz can black beans, drained and rinsed
Cilantro-Chipotle Sauce
3 tbs vegan margarine
2 C unsweetened almond milk
1 C packed fresh cilantro leaves
2 tsp chipotle paste
4 tbs four
3 Tbs nutritional yeast
3/4 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
The rest
24 6″ corn tortillas
1 large tomato, chopped
1 small can sliced black olives
3/4 C sliced green onion
1-2 C vegan shredded cheese
Optional toppings: vegan sour cream, salsa, diced avocado or guacamole

DIRECTIONS:
Preheat oven to 400. In a large skillet, heat the oil and garlic over medium heat. Cook 1-2 minutes, then add the bell pepper and onion. Saute 5-7 minutes, until they begin to soften.
Layered Mexican Casserole with a Creamy Cilantro-Chipotle Sauce -- Epicurean VeganAdd the kale and mushrooms and cook over medium-low heat until they begin to wilt and soften. I don’t like to cook mushrooms down too much–I want them to still have a “meaty” texture. Gently fold in the black beans then remove from the heat.
Layered Mexican Casserole with a Creamy Cilantro-Chipotle Sauce -- Epicurean VeganCombine the flour and nutritional yeast in a small bowl; set aside. To make the sauce, combine the almond milk, cilantro, and chipotle paste in the food processor; transfer to a measuring cup or something with a pour spout. Next, over medium-low heat, melt the margarine in a medium saucepan. Whisk in the flour-nutritional yeast mixture; you’ll end up with a paste-like sauce. Whisk in about a 1/4 to 1/2 cup of the milk and let thicken before adding a little more. Repeat process until you’ve added all the milk. Season with salt and pepper.

Layered Mexican Casserole with a Creamy Cilantro-Chipotle Sauce -- Epicurean VeganTo assemble the casserole, spread a thin layer of sauce on the bottom of a 9×13 baking pan. Lay 6 tortillas on the bottom.
Layered Mexican Casserole with a Creamy Cilantro-Chipotle Sauce -- Epicurean VeganSpread 1/3 of the bean-veggie mixture on top of the tortillas. Drizzle on some sauce and sprinkle with a little vegan cheese.
Layered Mexican Casserole with a Creamy Cilantro-Chipotle Sauce -- Epicurean VeganDo this two more times, however, don’t drizzle the sauce a third time; save it for the very top. Layer the last six tortillas on top, then spread the sauce on them. Top with green onion, black olives, tomatoes, and more cheese.
Layered Mexican Casserole with a Creamy Cilantro-Chipotle Sauce -- Epicurean VeganBake uncovered for 30 minutes. Top individual servings with any optional toppings and enjoy!
Layered Mexican Casserole with a Creamy Cilantro-Chipotle Sauce -- Epicurean Vegan

Layered Mexican Casserole with a Creamy Cilantro-Chipotle Sauce
 
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I started out thinking I was going to make this King Ranch Casserole, but I had this amazing chipotle paste my mom gave me that she picked up at Sur la table and figured I could liven up this dish.It gave the sauce a spicy, smoky flavor that was unique and flavorful. I also had some leftover taco ingredients from the other night, so this dish was meant to be. Sure, it's got your typical Mexican ingredients such as black beans, onions, and bell pepper, but I also threw in some mushrooms and kale. The creamy sauce makes it happen though! Creamy, flavorful and just the right amount of spice.
Author:
Ingredients
  • 1 Tbs olive oil
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 red bell pepper, chopped
  • ½ large onion, chopped
  • 2 C mushrooms, sliced
  • 1 bunch of kale, torn or chopped into bite-sized pieces
  • 15-oz can black beans, drained and rinsed
  • Cilantro-Chipotle Sauce
  • 3 tbs vegan margarine
  • 2 C unsweetened almond milk
  • 1 C packed fresh cilantro leaves
  • 2 tsp chipotle paste
  • 4 tbs four
  • 3 Tbs nutritional yeast
  • ¾ tsp salt
  • ¼ tsp black pepper
  • The rest
  • 24 6" corn tortillas
  • 1 large tomato, chopped
  • 1 small can sliced black olives
  • ¾ C sliced green onion
  • 1-2 C vegan shredded cheese
  • Optional toppings: vegan sour cream, salsa, diced avocado or guacamole
Directions
  1. Preheat oven to 400. In a large skillet, heat the oil and garlic over medium heat. Cook 1-2 minutes, then add the bell pepper and onion. Saute 5-7 minutes, until they begin to soften.
  2. Add the kale and mushrooms and cook over medium-low heat until they begin to wilt and soften. I don't like to cook mushrooms down too much--I want them to still have a "meaty" texture. Gently fold in the black beans then remove from the heat.
  3. Combine the flour and nutritional yeast in a small bowl; set aside. To make the sauce, combine the almond milk, cilantro, and chipotle paste in the food processor; transfer to a measuring cup or something with a pour spout. Next, over medium-low heat, melt the margarine in a medium saucepan. Whisk in the flour-nutritional yeast mixture; you'll end up with a paste-like sauce. Whisk in about a ¼ to ½ cup of the milk and let thicken before adding a little more. Repeat process until you've added all the milk. Season with salt and pepper.
  4. To assemble the casserole, spread a thin layer of sauce on the bottom of a 9x13 baking pan. Lay 6 tortillas on the bottom.
  5. Spread ⅓ of the bean-veggie mixture on top of the tortillas. Drizzle on some sauce and sprinkle with a little vegan cheese.
  6. Do this two more times, however, don't drizzle the sauce a third time; save it for the very top. Layer the last six tortillas on top, then spread the sauce on them. Top with green onion, black olives, tomatoes, and more cheese.
  7. Bake uncovered for 30 minutes. Top individual servings with any optional toppings and enjoy!

 

Chipotle Lentil & Walnut Taco Filling

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Chipotle Lentil and Walnut Taco Filling -- Epicurean Vegan

It’s obvious we like our tacos around here. Unfortunately, we’ve lost our taste for most varieties of meatless crumbles; they just don’t taste great and for some reason, our tummies tend to not agree with them later on. That’s where lentils and walnuts come in! Together, they make the perfect combination of soft and crunchy and are way better for you than any meat-filled taco. I added two chipotle-flavored Field Roast sausages and some onion, and it all came out perfect. This recipe is definitely for a crowd of taco-loving friends and family, so feel free to halve the recipe. It also makes some leftover lentils–which I love to snack on with a little salt and pepper. Right now, we have a 17-year-old family member staying with us for a while and he’s been eating vegan for the last three weeks and has loved all of our meals; these tacos have been one of his favorites so far. Teenager tested; meat-eater approved!

INGREDIENTS:
2 C walnuts
2 C green lentils (red will get too mushy)
4-5 C vegetable broth
4 Tbs water
3 tbs olive oil, divided
2 garlic cloves, minced
1/2 large onion, diced
2 Field Roast sausages, Chipotle-flavored
The rest
15-20 taco shells
Optional fixings: Guacamole or avocado slices, vegan sour cream, diced tomatoes, salsa, vegan cheddar shreds, sliced green onion, chopped cilantro, chopped lettuce

DIRECTIONS:
Preheat oven to 350. Toast the walnuts for 10 minutes; set aside. Start the lentils by combining them with the broth and bringing to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and let simmer for 30-40 minutes. Test them periodically. You don’t want them too mushy, but not too crunchy (I know, vague, but you’ll know what I mean when you taste them.) You might need to add some more broth if it’s getting absorbed but the lentils aren’t done.

While the lentils are cooking, heat one tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet with the garlic. Add the onion and cook for 5 minutes, or until softened. Toss the Field Roast sausages in the food processor and pulse a few times until they’re chunky–not too pureed. Add them to the skillet and saute with the onions.
Chipotle Lentil and Walnut Taco Filling -- Epicurean Vegan

Once the lentils are ready, drain any excess liquid and transfer 2 cups of them to the cleaned out food processor bowl. Add the walnuts, 2 tablespoons of olive oil and the 4 tablespoons of water. Pulse a few times to get a chunky consistency.
Chipotle Lentil and Walnut Taco Filling -- Epicurean VeganAdd them to the onion-Field Roast mixture and combine well. Heat thoroughly, adding a little water or broth if the mixture seems to dry.
Chipotle Lentil and Walnut Taco Filling -- Epicurean VeganFill the taco shells with some of the mixture and top with your favorite taco toppers. Enjoy!

Chipotle Lentil & Walnut Taco Filling
 
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It's obvious we like our tacos around here. Unfortunately, we've lost our taste for most varieties of meatless crumbles; they just don't taste great and for some reason, our tummies tend to not agree with them later on. That's where lentils and walnuts come in! Together, they make the perfect combination of soft and crunchy and are way better for you than any meat-filled taco. I added two chipotle-flavored Field Roast sausages and some onion, and it all came out perfect. This recipe is definitely for a crowd of taco-loving friends and family, so feel free to halve the recipe. It also makes some leftover lentils--which I love to snack on with a little salt and pepper. Right now, we have a 17-year-old family member staying with us for a while and he's been eating vegan for the last three weeks and has loved all of our meals; these tacos have been one of his favorites so far. Teenager tested; meat-eater approved!
Author:
Ingredients
  • 2 C walnuts
  • 2 C green lentils (red will get too mushy)
  • 4-5 C vegetable broth
  • 4 Tbs water
  • 3 tbs olive oil, divided
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • ½ large onion, diced
  • 2 Field Roast sausages, Chipotle-flavored
  • The rest
  • 15-20 taco shells
  • Optional fixings: Guacamole or avocado slices, vegan sour cream, diced tomatoes, salsa, vegan cheddar shreds, sliced green onion, chopped cilantro, chopped lettuce
Directions
  1. Preheat oven to 350. Toast the walnuts for 10 minutes; set aside.
  2. Start the lentils by combining them with the broth and bringing to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and let simmer for 30-40 minutes. Test them periodically. You don't want them too mushy, but not too crunchy (I know, vague, but you'll know what I mean when you taste them.) You might need to add some more broth if it's getting absorbed but the lentils aren't done.
  3. While the lentils are cooking, heat one tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet with the garlic. Add the onion and cook for 5 minutes, or until softened.
  4. Toss the Field Roast sausages in the food processor and pulse a few times until they're chunky--not too pureed. Add them to the skillet and saute with the onions.
  5. Once the lentils are ready, drain any excess liquid and transfer 2 cups of them to the cleaned out food processor bowl. Add the walnuts, 2 tablespoons of olive oil and the 4 tablespoons of water. Pulse a few times to get a chunky consistency.
  6. Add them to the onion-Field Roast mixture and combine well. Heat thoroughly, adding a little water or broth if the mixture seems to dry.
  7. Fill the taco shells with some of the mixture and top with your favorite taco toppers. Enjoy!

 

Bean & Hash Brown Tacos

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Bean and Hash Brown Tacos -- Epicurean Vegan

We love tacos around here and the fact that they’re so versatile makes them the perfect option for breakfast, lunch or dinner. You could very well make these makes these for breakfast, but how about for dinner? Yes, please. Tasty and simple to throw together.

INGREDIENTS:
2 Tbs olive oil
3 cloves of garlic, minced
4 C shredded potato (about 5 small russet potatoes)
1 medium red onion, chopped
1 15-oz can black beans, drained and rinsed
1/2 pkg. taco seasoning
1/2 C lime juice
1/4 C water
10-12 corn and/or flour tortillas, warmed
Toppings:
avocado slices
vegan sour cream
vegan shreds (I love Daiya’s Farmhouse Block cheddar and jalapeno flavors)
lettuce, chopped
salsa

DIRECTIONS:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and garlic. Add the potato and red onion. Saute for about 20 minutes, stirring often to keep from burning.
Bean and Hash Brown Tacos -- Epicurean VeganIn a small cup, combine the lime juice, water, and taco seasoning. Stir into the potato mixture along with the black beans. Heat through for 3-4 minutes.
Bean and Hash Brown Tacos -- Epicurean VeganFill the tortillas with the hash brown mixture and top with your favorite toppings. Enjoy!
Bean & Hash Brown Tacos -- Epicurean Vegan

Bean & Hash Brown Tacos
 
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We love tacos around here and the fact that they're so versatile makes them the perfect option for breakfast, lunch or dinner. You could very well make these makes these for breakfast, but how about for dinner? Yes, please. Tasty and simple to throw together.
Author:
Serves: 10-12
Ingredients
  • 2 Tbs olive oil
  • 3 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 4 C shredded potato (about 5 small russet potatoes)
  • 1 medium red onion, chopped
  • 1 15-oz can black beans, drained and rinsed
  • ½ pkg. taco seasoning
  • ½ C lime juice
  • ¼ C water
  • 10-12 corn and/or flour tortillas, warmed
  • Toppings:
  • avocado slices
  • vegan sour cream
  • vegan shreds (I love Daiya's Farmhouse Block cheddar and jalapeno flavors)
  • lettuce, chopped
  • salsa
Directions
  1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and garlic. Add the potato and red onion. Saute for about 20 minutes, stirring often to keep from burning.
  2. In a small cup, combine the lime juice, water, and taco seasoning. Stir into the potato mixture along with the black beans. Heat through for 3-4 minutes.
  3. Fill the tortillas with the hash brown mixture and top with your favorite toppings. Enjoy!

 

Enchilada Lasagna with Cilantro Ricotta

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Enchilada Lasagna with Cilantro Ricotta -- Epicurean Vegan

Talk about a tasty international combination! And why not? Two cuisines, Mexican and Italian come together beautifully for this amazing dish that will wow any meat eater. Oh, and it’s gluten-free! Voila! I mean . . . ole! Hmmm…okay, how about yum!

INGREDIENTS:
Enchilada sauce
28-oz can fire roasted diced tomatoes
1/2 C vegetable broth
2-1/2 tsp Ancho chili powder
1-1/2 tsp cumin
1 tsp oregano
1 tsp sugar
3 jarred roasted red peppers
3 cloves of garlic
Cilantro Ricotta
14-oz extra firm tofu, drained and pressed
2-1/2 C fresh cilantro
1/3 C nutritional yeast
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp cumin
2 Tbs lime juice
The rest
1 Tbs olive oil
1 large onion, chopped
1 green bell pepper, chopped or diced
1 C corn kernels
2 15-oz cans black beans, drained and rinsed
4 C fresh baby spinach
18 5-inch corn tortillas
Optional toppings
Guacamole
Pepita seeds
Green onion, sliced
Vegan sour cream
Salsa
Lettuce, chopped

DIRECTIONS:
Preheat oven to 375. Begin making the sauce by combining the diced tomatoes, broth, chili powder, cumin, oregano, and sugar in a medium sauce pan. Simmer for 15 minutes. Toss the garlic cloves, roasted red peppers, and half of the sauce into a food processor. Process until smooth, then return to the pan with the rest of the sauce. Simmer on low.

To make the cilantro ricotta, place all of the ingredients in a food processor and blend until smooth. Set aside.
Enchilada Lasagna with Cilantro Ricotta -- Epicurean VeganIn a large skillet, heat the olive oil and add the onion and green pepper. Cook over medium heat for about 8 minutes, or until the vegetables soften. Add the corn and black beans and cook for another 5 minutes.
Enchilada Lasagna with Cilantro Ricotta -- Epicurean VeganPour about half of the enchilada sauce into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking pan. Place 6 tortilla shells on the bottom of pan, letting them overlap each other.
Enchilada Lasagna with Cilantro Ricotta -- Epicurean VeganSpread a third of the ricotta on top of the tortillas:
Enchilada Lasagna with Cilantro Ricotta -- Epicurean VeganNext, add a third of the spinach leaves, then a third of the bean mixture:
Enchilada Lasagna with Cilantro Ricotta -- Epicurean VeganRepeat layering two more times then top with remaining sauce:
Enchilada Lasagna with Cilantro Ricotta -- Epicurean VeganCover and bake for 40-45 minutes. Top individual servings with the (optional) toppings and enjoy!

Enchilada Lasagna with Cilantro Ricotta
 
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Talk about a tasty international combination! And why not? Two cuisines, Mexican and Italian come together beautifully for this amazing dish that will wow any meat eater. Oh, and it's gluten-free! Voila! I mean . . . ole! Hmmm...okay, how about yum!
Author:
Ingredients
  • Enchilada sauce
  • 28-oz can fire roasted diced tomatoes
  • ½ C vegetable broth
  • 2-1/2 tsp Ancho chili powder
  • 1-1/2 tsp cumin
  • 1 tsp oregano
  • 1 tsp sugar
  • 3 jarred roasted red peppers
  • 3 cloves of garlic
  • Cilantro Ricotta
  • 14-oz extra firm tofu, drained and pressed
  • 2-1/2 C fresh cilantro
  • ⅓ C nutritional yeast
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • ½ tsp cumin
  • 2 Tbs lime juice
  • The rest
  • 1 Tbs olive oil
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 1 green bell pepper, chopped or diced
  • 1 C corn kernels
  • 2 15-oz cans black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 4 C fresh baby spinach
  • 18 5-inch corn tortillas
  • Optional toppings
  • Guacamole
  • Pepita seeds
  • Green onion, sliced
  • Vegan sour cream
  • Salsa
  • Lettuce, chopped
Directions
  1. Preheat oven to 375.
  2. Begin making the sauce by combining the diced tomatoes, broth, chili powder, cumin, oregano, and sugar in a medium sauce pan. Simmer for 15 minutes. Toss the garlic cloves, roasted red peppers, and half of the sauce into a food processor. Process until smooth, then return to the pan with the rest of the sauce. Simmer on low.
  3. To make the cilantro ricotta, place all of the ingredients in a food processor and blend until smooth. Set aside.
  4. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and add the onion and green pepper. Cook over medium heat for about 8 minutes, or until the vegetables soften. Add the corn and black beans and cook for another 5 minutes.
  5. Pour about half of the enchilada sauce into the bottom of a 9x13-inch baking pan. Place 6 tortilla shells on the bottom of pan, letting them overlap each other.
  6. Spread a third of the ricotta on top of the tortillas.
  7. Next, add a third of the spinach leaves, then a third of the bean mixture.
  8. Repeat layering two more times then top with remaining sauce.
  9. Cover and bake for 40-45 minutes. Top individual servings with the (optional) toppings and enjoy!

 

Mexican-Style Risotto

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Mexican-Style Risotto -- Epicurean Vegan

Mexican food is definitely a favorite around my house, but I don’t always take the time to make Mexican-style, or Spanish rice. I end up using the easy boxed or microwavable bagged kind. (I know, shameful.) The Husband, however, has no problem with it, even though it’s usually dry and tasteless. We recently had a taco night with friends and I was determined to make a creamy and delicious, Mexican-style rice. My first thought was risotto. And it really doesn’t get any easier because this bakes in the oven and there’s very little work involved. Say goodbye to dry, Mexican restaurant-style rice. This creamy risotto is full of flavor and is perfect for feeding a crowd.

INGREDIENTS:
5 C vegetable broth, divided
1-1/2 C Arborio rice
1 Tbs olive oil
1 C onion, diced
2 14-oz cans diced tomatoes (I like the fire-roasted kind)
1 7-oz can diced green chilies (pick your heat level)
1/4 C lime juice
2 Tbs vegan margarine
1/4 C nutritional yeast
1/2 tsp salt
1 Tbs cumin
1/2 tsp chili powder
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp black pepper
Optional: fresh chopped cilantro, avocado slices (Not everyone loves cilantro, so I put it on the side. You can also mix it in at the end with the tomato mixture.)

DIRECTIONS:
Preheat oven to 350. In a large Dutch oven, combine 4 cups of the broth with the rice; stir, cover, and bake for 45 minutes. In a small bowl, combine the nutritional yeast, salt, cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, and black pepper; set aside.

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and add the onion. Cook for 5-7 minutes over medium heat, then add the tomatoes and green chilies. Let simmer for 10 minutes.

Once the risotto is done, stir in the remaining cup of broth, the margarine, lime juice, and the bowl of seasonings; stir vigorously. Next, add the tomato mixture and combine well. Serve with cilantro and avocado. Enjoy!

Mexican-Style Risotto -- Epicurean Vegan

Mexican-Style Risotto
 
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Mexican food is definitely a favorite around my house, but I don't always take the time to make Mexican-style, or Spanish rice. I end up using the easy boxed or microwavable bagged kind. (I know, shameful.) The Husband, however, has no problem with it, even though it's usually dry and tasteless. We recently had a taco night with friends and I was determined to make a creamy and delicious, Mexican-style rice. My first thought was risotto. And it really doesn't get any easier because this bakes in the oven and there's very little work involved. Say goodbye to dry, Mexican restaurant-style rice. This creamy risotto is full of flavor and is perfect for feeding a crowd.
Author:
Serves: 10
Ingredients
  • 5 C vegetable broth, divided
  • 1-1/2 C Arborio rice
  • 1 Tbs olive oil
  • 1 C onion, diced
  • 2 14-oz cans diced tomatoes (I like the fire-roasted kind)
  • 1 7-oz can diced green chilies (pick your heat level)
  • ¼ C lime juice
  • 2 Tbs vegan margarine
  • ¼ C nutritional yeast
  • ½ tsp salt
  • 1 Tbs cumin
  • ½ tsp chili powder
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • Optional: fresh chopped cilantro, avocado slices (Not everyone loves cilantro, so I put it on the side. You can also mix it in at the end with the tomato mixture.)
Directions
  1. Preheat oven to 350.
  2. In a large Dutch oven, combine 4 cups of the broth with the rice; stir, cover, and bake for 45 minutes.
  3. In a small bowl, combine the nutritional yeast, salt, cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, and black pepper; set aside.
  4. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and add the onion. Cook for 5-7 minutes over medium heat, then add the tomatoes and green chilies. Let simmer for 10 minutes.
  5. Once the risotto is done, stir in the remaining cup of broth, the margarine, lime juice, and the bowl of seasonings; stir vigorously.
  6. Next, add the tomato mixture and combine well. Serve with cilantro and avocado. Enjoy!

 

East Meets West Chickpea Lettuce Wraps

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East Meets West Chickpea Lettuce Wraps -- Epicurean Vegan

Garbanzo beans (or chickpeas) are such a versatile bean. (I shudder to think of a world without hummus!) I obviously couldn’t decide on Asian or Mexican food, so why not combine them? It turned out to be a very tasty, gluten-free collaboration, not to mention easy to make. All you need is about an hour to marinate the beans and the rest is a breeze.

INGREDIENTS:
2 14-oz cans chickpeas, drained and rinsed
Marinade
4 Tbs tamari
3 Tbs lime juice
3 Tbs red wine vinegar
1 garlic clove, minced
1 Tbs olive oil
1 Tbs arrowroot or cornstarch
The rest
2 C cabbage, roughly chopped
8-10 mushrooms, quartered
6 green onion, cut into large pieces
1 C cilantro leaves
1 Tbs olive oil
3/4 C General Tso stir-fry sauce
1/4 C hoisin sauce
12 iceberg lettuce leaves
1 avocado, peeled, pitted, and diced
1/2 C roasted and chopped peanuts or cashews

DIRECTIONS:
To prepare the chickpeas, mix all of the marinade ingredients in a resealable plastic bag; add the chickpeas and coat them well. Refrigerate for at least an hour, turning the bag over halfway through. To make things easy, I pulsed the chopped cabbage in a food processor a few times:
CabbageI transferred it to a large bowl, then added the mushrooms, green onion, and cilantro to the food processor. It helps to mix the vegetables up in the processor bowl beforehand so that you get a consistent chop. Add to the cabbage.
East Meets West Chickpea Lettuce Wraps -- Epicurean VeganIn a large skillet, over medium heat, add the olive oil and chickpeas (with the marinade). Saute for about 5-7 minutes; the marinade will start to thicken. Reduce the heat if it starts to stick too much.
East Meets West Chickpea Lettuce Wraps -- Epicurean VeganIn a small bowl or measuring cup, combine the General Tso sauce and the Hoisin sauce, then add to the skillet. Let it simmer for another 5-7 minutes.
East Meets West Chickpea Lettuce Wraps -- Epicurean VeganRemove from the heat and allow the chickpeas to cool a little. To assemble your lettuce wraps, place a little bit of the slaw on the bottom of a lettuce cup, add a scoop or two of the chickpeas, then some slaw, and top with a little avocado and nuts. Enjoy!

East Meets West Chickpea Lettuce Wraps
 
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Garbanzo beans (or chickpeas) are such a versatile bean. (I shudder to think of a world without hummus!) I obviously couldn't decide on Asian or Mexican food, so why not combine them? It turned out to be a very tasty, gluten-free collaboration, not to mention easy to make. All you need is about an hour to marinate the beans and the rest is a breeze.
Author:
Serves: 12
Ingredients
  • 2 14-oz cans chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  • Marinade
  • 4 Tbs tamari
  • 3 Tbs lime juice
  • 3 Tbs red wine vinegar
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • 1 Tbs olive oil
  • 1 Tbs arrowroot or cornstarch
  • The rest
  • 2 C cabbage, roughly chopped
  • 8-10 mushrooms, quartered
  • 6 green onion, cut into large pieces
  • 1 C cilantro leaves
  • 1 Tbs olive oil
  • ¾ C General Tso stir-fry sauce
  • ¼ C hoisin sauce
  • 12 iceberg lettuce leaves
  • 1 avocado, peeled, pitted, and diced
  • ½ C roasted and chopped peanuts or cashews
Directions
  1. To prepare the chickpeas, mix all of the marinade ingredients in a resealable plastic bag; add the chickpeas and coat them well. Refrigerate for at least an hour, turning the bag over halfway through.
  2. To make things easy, I pulsed the chopped cabbage in a food processor a few times.
  3. I transferred it to a large bowl, then added the mushrooms, green onion, and cilantro to the food processor. It helps to mix the vegetables up in the processor bowl beforehand so that you get a consistent chop. Add to the cabbage.
  4. In a large skillet, over medium heat, add the olive oil and chickpeas (with the marinade). Saute for about 5-7 minutes; the marinade will start to thicken. Reduce the heat if it starts to stick too much.
  5. In a small bowl or measuring cup, combine the General Tso sauce and the Hoisin sauce, then add to the skillet. Let it simmer for another 5-7 minutes.
  6. Remove from the heat and allow the chickpeas to cool a little.
  7. To assemble your lettuce wraps, place a little bit of the slaw on the bottom of a lettuce cup, add a scoop or two of the chickpeas, then some slaw, and top with a little avocado and nuts. Enjoy!

 

Bean & Avocado Tacos with Cilantro-Lime Cashew Sauce

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Bean and Avocado Tacos with Cilantro-Lime Cashew Sauce -- Epicurean VeganSummer is around the corner, which means fresher, lighter meals make a resurgence. Frankly, these are good any time. They come together in a snap, too. I paired these with the Avocado Bruschetta that’s always a hit.
Avocado Bruschetta -- Epicurean VeganI made these pretty mild, but feel free to chop up a jalapeno or add some hot sauce to the cashew sauce. Some iceberg lettuce would also add some nice crunch. Either way, I think you’ll enjoy these tasty, gluten-free tacos for lunch or dinner.

INGREDIENTS:
1 15-oz can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
1 15-oz can black beans, drained and rinsed
1 red bell pepper, diced
1/2 large onion (any variety), diced
2 Tbs red wine vinegar
2 Tbs ground cumin
1 tsp oregano
3/4 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1 tsp garlic powder
2 Tbs lime juice
Cilantro-Lime Cashew Sauce
1 C raw, unsalted cashews
1 tsp apple cider vinegar
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 to 3/4 C cold water
3 Tbs lime juice
1 C fresh cilantro leaves
1 Tbs nutritional yeast
The rest
1 avocado, peeled, pitted and sliced
6-8 soft corn tortillas

DIRECTIONS:
When it comes to making a dish with a cashew sauce, I’ll usually start by pouring boiling water over the cashews and let them soak for at least two hours. Meanwhile, prepare the other ingredients. Combine the beans, bell pepper, and onion in a large bowl. In a small dish, combine the cumin, oregano, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Gently fold into the bean mixture along with the red wine vinegar and lime juice. Set aside.
Bean and Avocado Tacos with Cilantro-Lime Cashew SauceTo make the sauce, drain the cashews and add them to the food processor along with all of the ingredients. Go easy on the water at first and add more as you go in order to reach a desired sauce consistency. I use a funnel to transfer the sauce to a squeeze bottle.
Bean and Avocado Tacos with Cilantro-Lime Cashew SauceIf you’d like, warm the tortillas, or keep them room temperature. I squeezed on some sauce, spooned some filling inside, added an avocado slice, then topped with more sauce. Enjoy!
Bean and Avocado Tacos with Cilantro-Lime Cashew SauceWith leftovers, we changed it up a little by warming up the filling and using corn shells and adding lettuce and tomato. So good!

Bean and Avocado Tacos with Cilantro-Lime Cashew Sauce -- Epicurean Vegan

 

FBean & Avocado Tacos with Cilantro-Lime Cashew Sauce
 
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Author:
Serves: 6-8
Ingredients
  • 1 15-oz can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 15-oz can black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • ½ large onion (any variety), diced
  • 2 Tbs red wine vinegar
  • 2 Tbs ground cumin
  • 1 tsp oregano
  • ¾ tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 2 Tbs lime juice
  • Cilantro-Lime Cashew Sauce
  • 1 C raw, unsalted cashews
  • 1 tsp apple cider vinegar
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ½ to ¾ C cold water
  • 3 Tbs lime juice
  • 1 C fresh cilantro leaves
  • 1 Tbs nutritional yeast
  • The rest
  • 1 avocado, peeled, pitted and sliced
  • 6-8 soft corn tortillas
Directions
  1. When it comes to making a dish with a cashew sauce, I'll usually start by pouring boiling water over the cashews and let them soak for at least two hours. Meanwhile, prepare the other ingredients.
  2. Combine the beans, bell pepper, and onion in a large bowl. In a small dish, combine the cumin, oregano, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Gently fold into the bean mixture along with the red wine vinegar and lime juice. Set aside.
  3. To make the sauce, drain the cashews and add them to the food processor along with all of the ingredients. Go easy on the water at first and add more as you go in order to reach a desired sauce consistency. I use a funnel to transfer the sauce to a squeeze bottle.
  4. If you'd like, warm the tortillas, or keep them room temperature. I squeezed on some sauce, spooned some filling inside, added an avocado slice, then topped with more sauce. Enjoy!

 

 

Quick & Easy Quinoa Chili

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Quick & Easy Quinoa Chili -- Epicurean VeganSome nights call for a warm, hearty meal. This one is also packed with healthy ingredients such as quinoa, beans, and avocado. I love regular ol’ chili with beans, tomatoes, and ground veggie sausage or crumbles, but sometimes, you just need a change! Between the quinoa and beans, you’ll get a healthy dose of protein, too. Quick, easy, and perfect for a chilly night.

INGREDIENTS:
1 Tbs olive oil
3 cloves of garlic, minced
1 large onion, chopped
1 C tri-color quinoa
3 C vegetable broth, divided
2 14-oz cans diced tomatoes, with juice
1 6-oz can tomato paste
2 14-oz cans tri-bean blend
2 tsp Ancho chili powder
1/2 tsp paprika
1 tsp cumin
1 tsp oregano
3/4 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
16-oz jar roasted red peppers, chopped
1 C frozen corn kernals
Juice from one lime
Fresh cilantro, chopped
1 avocado, peeled, pitted and diced
Tofutti sour cream (optional)

DIRECTIONS:
In a large soup pot, heat the olive oil and add the garlic. Cook for 1-2 minutes, then add the onion. Saute the onion over medium heat for 8 minutes, until softened and just slightly browned. Add the quinoa and cook for 3 minutes, stirring often.

Quick & Easy Quinoa Chili -- Epicurean VeganNext, stir in the tomatoes, tomato paste, 2 cups of the broth, beans, and seasonings. Reduce the heat to low and simmer, partially covered with a lid, for about 20-25 minutes. Taste test to make sure the quinoa isn’t crunchy and that you have the right amount of seasoning. Add the remaining cup of broth, chopped roasted red peppers, corn, and lime juice. Cook another 10 minutes. Serve with sour cream, cilantro, and avocado. Enjoy!

Quick & Easy Quinoa Chili
 
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Some nights call for a warm, hearty meal. This one is also packed with healthy ingredients such as quinoa, beans, and avocado. I love regular ol' chili with beans, tomatoes, and ground veggie sausage or crumbles, but sometimes, you just need a change! Between the quinoa and beans, you'll get a healthy dose of protein, too. Quick, easy, and perfect for a chilly night.
Author:
Serves: 8
Ingredients
  • 1 Tbs olive oil
  • 3 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 1 C tri-color quinoa
  • 3 C vegetable broth, divided
  • 2 14-oz cans diced tomatoes, with juice
  • 1 6-oz can tomato paste
  • 2 14-oz cans tri-bean blend
  • 2 tsp Ancho chili powder
  • ½ tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1 tsp oregano
  • ¾ tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • 16-oz jar roasted red peppers, chopped
  • 1 C frozen corn kernals
  • Juice from one lime
Directions
  1. In a large soup pot, heat the olive oil and add the garlic. Cook for 1-2 minutes, then add the onion. Saute the onion over medium heat for 8 minutes, until softened and just slightly browned.
  2. Add the quinoa and cook for 3 minutes, stirring often.
  3. Next, stir in the tomatoes, tomato paste, 2 cups of the broth, beans, and seasonings. Reduce the heat to low and simmer, partially covered with a lid, for about 20-25 minutes.
  4. Taste test to make sure the quinoa isn't crunchy and that you have the right amount of seasoning. Add the remaining cup of broth, chopped roasted red peppers, corn, and lime juice.
  5. Cook another 10 minutes. Serve with sour cream, cilantro, and avocado. Enjoy!

 

Slow Cooker Mexican Quinoa & Black Beans

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Slow Cooker Mexican Quinoa and Black Beans -- Epicurean VeganThis has been a favorite at our house for some time now. I found the original recipe on Pinterest, but have just tweaked it a little here and there. I also double the recipe because it makes great leftovers. I like to serve this with some tortilla chips, cilantro, avocado and vegan sour cream, but we’ve also been known to scoop it into a warm flour or corn tortilla with all fixins’ like tomato, cilantro, avocado, etc. It’s so easy to make; just toss in a slow cooker and it’s ready in about 3 hours. (And it’s gluten-free!) You can sub in any other kind of bean, such as kidney or chili beans, but I also think some lentils would be perfect too. And why not throw in a diced red bell pepper? The possibilities are endless!

INGREDIENTS:
2 15-oz cans black beans, drained and rinsed
3 C vegetable broth
1-1/2 C tri-color quinoa
1 C salsa
2 bay leaves
3 tsp cumin
2 tsp salt
1-1/2 tsp garlic powder
Black pepper, to taste
Zest and juice from 1 lime
1-2 avocados, peeled, pitted and cubed
1 C fresh cilantro, chopped
Vegan sour cream
Corn tortilla chips
Optional: flour tortillas or corn taco shells

DIRECTIONS:
Combine the beans, broth, quinoa, salsa, bay leaves, cumin, salt, and garlic powder in a slow cooker. Cook on HIGH for 3 to 3-1/2 hours. If you can, stir it around once or twice. Once done, stir in the lime zest and juice. Season individual servings with pepper and top with avocado, cilantro and sour cream. Enjoy with tortilla chips.

Slow Cooker Mexican Quinoa & Black Beans
 
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Prep time
Cook time
Total time
 
This has been a favorite at our house for some time now. I found the original recipe on Pinterest, but have just tweaked it a little here and there. I also double the recipe because it makes great leftovers. I like to serve this with some tortilla chips, cilantro, avocado and vegan sour cream, but we've also been known to scoop it into a warm flour or corn tortilla with all fixins' like tomato, cilantro, avocado, etc. It's so easy to make; just toss in a slow cooker and it's ready in about 3 hours. (And it's gluten-free!) You can sub in any other kind of bean, such as kidney or chili beans, but I also think some lentils would be perfect too. And why not throw in a diced red bell pepper? The possibilities are endless!
Author:
Serves: 6
Ingredients
  • 2 15-oz cans black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 3 C vegetable broth
  • 1-1/2 C tri-color quinoa
  • 1 C salsa
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 3 tsp cumin
  • 2 tsp salt
  • 1-1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • Zest and juice from 1 lime
  • 1-2 avocados, peeled, pitted and cubed
  • 1 C fresh cilantro, chopped
  • Vegan sour cream
  • Corn tortilla chips
  • Optional: flour tortillas or corn taco shells
Directions
  1. Combine the beans, broth, quinoa, salsa, bay leaves, cumin, salt, and garlic powder in a slow cooker. Cook on HIGH for 3 to 3-1/2 hours. If you can, stir it around once or twice.
  2. Once done, stir in the lime zest and juice.
  3. Season individual servings with pepper and top with avocado, cilantro and sour cream. Enjoy with tortilla chips.

 

 

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