“Vegan Cuban Feast: Mouthwatering Plant-Based Picadillo & Black Beans with Cilantro Rice”

Allergens

None

Ingredients

• Lentil Picadillo:
• 1 cup green lentils, rinsed
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 8 oz button mushrooms, finely chopped
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 1 cup tomato sauce Black Beans:
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 teaspoon olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin Cilantro Rice:
• 1 cup long
• grain white rice
• 1 3/4 cups water
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup chopped fresh cilantro Guacamole:
• 2 ripe avocados, pitted and peeled
• 1/4 cup diced red onion
• 1/2 cup diced tomato
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper For Serving:
• Fresh lime wedges

Instructions

1. Lentil Picadillo: In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed green lentils and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, and simmer until lentils are tender but not mushy, about 20 minutes. Drain any excess liquid and set aside. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, cooking until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in chopped mushrooms and bell pepper, cooking until the vegetables are tender, around 7 10 minutes. Pour in the tomato sauce and cooked lentils, stirring to combine. Cook for an additional 5 minutes to allow flavors to meld. Black Beans: In a small saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add cumin and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in black beans and cook until heated through, about 3 4 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cilantro Rice: In a separate saucepan, combine rice, water, and salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer covered for 18 20 minutes or until the rice is cooked through and tender. Fluff with a fork and stir in chopped cilantro. Guacamole: In a bowl, mash avocados with a fork, leaving some chunks for texture. Fold in red onion, tomato, salt, and black pepper. Set aside.

Chef’s Insight

The combination of flavors and textures in this dish creates an immersive dining experience that transports you to Cuba, even while enjoying a plant-based meal.

Notes

Serve with a side of crusty bread or mixed greens for a complete meal.