Spice Up Your Week with these Easy Vegan Burrito Bowls
Tired of the same old lunch routine? Looking for a meal that's both satisfying and good for you? Look no further! These Vegan Burrito Bowls are about to become your new obsession. Imagine this: spicy, savory cauliflower walnut "meat," sweet blistered peppers, fluffy rice, and a generous scoop of hearty black beans. It's a flavor explosion in every bite!
The Magic of the 'Big Four'
This isn't just a random mix of ingredients; it's a carefully curated combination of textures and flavors, centered around our "Big Four":
- Cauliflower Walnut Taco Meat: This is the star of the show! Walnuts add a meaty texture and a boost of omega-3s, while the cauliflower soaks up all the delicious spices.
- Blistered Pepper Strips: Slightly charred and bursting with sweetness, these peppers bring another layer of flavor and color.
- Rice: The fluffy, comforting base that brings it all together. Feel free to use your favorite type.
- Black Beans: Hearty, protein-packed, and incredibly satisfying. They add a wonderful earthy flavor to the mix.
Endless Topping Possibilities
The best part about burrito bowls is the endless possibilities for toppings! Here are some of our favorites:
- Lime wedges: For a burst of citrusy freshness.
- Fresh cilantro: Adds an herbaceous note.
- Salsa: Spice it up with your favorite type.
- Avocado: For creamy richness.
- Hot sauce: If you like a little heat.
Let's Talk About That Taco Meat
Seriously, the cauliflower walnut taco meat is a game-changer. It's so easy to make, and the walnuts add the perfect texture. Plus, walnuts are nutritional powerhouses packed with omega-3s. Trust us, this is not your average vegan meat substitute!
How to Assemble Your Bowl
- Start with the Taco Meat: Pulse the ingredients together, bake until golden and crispy.
- Roast the Peppers: Toss pepper strips with olive oil and salt, then roast them along with the taco meat.
- Cook Your Rice: Use your preferred method to prepare the rice.
- Combine & Enjoy: Layer rice, cauliflower walnut meat, blistered peppers, and black beans in your bowl, then add your favorite toppings. Dig in!
Meal Prep Superstar
These burrito bowls are also fantastic for meal prepping. Make a big batch on the weekend and enjoy healthy, delicious lunches all week long! Just divide the components into separate containers and assemble them when you're ready to eat.
More Bowl Ideas
Looking to mix it up? Try these additions:
- Sofritas tofu
- Fajita-style mushrooms
- Vegan queso
- Roasted sweet potatoes
- Corn or corn salsa
Recipe Card
Yields: 6 servings
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 45 minutes
Ingredients:
For the Cauliflower Walnut Taco Meat:
- 3 cups cauliflower florets
- 2 cups whole walnuts
- 2 chipotles in adobo sauce
- 1 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp salt
- Lime juice, garlic/onion powder, and cayenne to taste
For the Burrito Bowls:
- 4-5 bell peppers, sliced
- Olive oil and salt
- 1 1/2 cups uncooked rice
- 1 14-ounce can black beans, rinsed and drained
- Lime wedges and cilantro for serving
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 375 degrees F.
- Pulse all the taco meat ingredients in a food processor until a thick, crumbly mixture forms. Spread on a nonstick sheet pan.
- Arrange the peppers on a separate sheet pan. Toss with olive oil and salt.
- Bake both pans for 40-45 minutes.
- Cook the rice according to the package directions.
- Divide all ingredients into six containers and add your favorite toppings.
Equipment
- Nonstick sheet pans
- Square meal prep containers
- Food processor
Notes:
- For the rice, I use the instant pot method. 1 1/2 cup rice with 1 3/4 cup water, for 3 minutes, and natural pressure release.
Let's Connect
We would love to hear from you! If you try this recipe, please let us know what you think! Tag us on social media or leave a comment below. Happy cooking!