Are you ready to spice things up in the kitchen? I created this post because I believe that plant-based eating shouldn’t be boring. Puerto Rican cuisine is filled with bold flavors and vibrant ingredients that make it a perfect match for vegan recipes. Whether you’re a long-time vegan or just looking to eat healthier, this collection of vegan Puerto Rican recipes is here to satisfy your cravings.
If you love the lively tastes of the Caribbean, this one’s for you. You’ll find a variety of dishes that capture the essence of traditional Puerto Rican food, all while keeping it plant-based. From savory vegan empanadas to sweet vegan flan de coco, these recipes bring the island’s spirit directly to your plate.
What you’ll get from this post is a mouthwatering selection of plant-based Puerto Rican dishes that are not only delicious but also easy to make. You’ll discover how to recreate classic favorites and add a healthy twist to your meals. Let’s dive into these flavorful plant-based cooking ideas that promise to bring joy and nutrition to your table. With these recipes, you’ll impress your family and friends while transforming your dining experience into a celebration of vibrant flavors.
So grab your apron and get ready to cook up a storm! Whether you’re preparing a family feast or just a cozy dinner for yourself, these traditional vegan recipes will surely make your taste buds dance.
Key Takeaways
– Discover 10 unique vegan Puerto Rican recipes that celebrate rich Caribbean flavors.
– Learn how to make popular dishes like vegan mofongo and vegan sancocho with simple ingredients.
– Enjoy healthier versions of traditional meals, perfect for anyone looking to eat plant-based.
– Find practical cooking tips to enhance your culinary skills while experimenting with vegan Caribbean cuisine.
– Impress your guests with vibrant, delicious meals that maintain the authentic spirit of Puerto Rican cooking.
1. Vegan Mofongo
Craving creamy plantain comfort without meat? This vegan mofongo delivers warm, hearty flavor with a veggie broth boost. It pairs beautifully with sautéed greens or a zingy vegan sauce for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 green plantains, peeled and cut into chunks
– 4 garlic cloves, minced
– 1/2 cup vegetable broth
– 1/4 cup olive oil (or coconut oil)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Boil plantain chunks for 20 minutes until soft
2. Drain and mash with garlic, oil, salt, and pepper, leaving some texture
3. Gradually stir in vegetable broth to reach your desired creaminess
4. Serve with sautéed veggies or a zesty sauce for extra flavor
FAQs:
– Can I use ripe plantains? Yes, it will be sweeter; adjust mash time.
– Is it gluten-free? Yes, naturally gluten-free.
Vegan Mofongo
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Price updated on December 10, 2025 at 6:59 PM
Fresh Organic Green Plantain Bananas by RawJoy Farms, 1 Pound
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Topnotchplace fresh Whole Plantains | Premium Green & Yellow Plantains |…
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Pacific Foods Low Sodium Organic Vegetable Broth, 32 oz Carton (Case of 12)
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Atlas Organic Cold Pressed Moroccan Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Polyphenol R…
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2. Vegan Empanadas
Crisp, flaky pockets filled with bold lentil and veggie flavors. These empanadas capture street-food charm with a plant-powered twist, perfect for snacking or hosting a crowd.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 1/2 cup cold water
– 1 cup cooked lentils
– 1/2 bell pepper, diced
– 1/2 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp cumin
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Mix flour, olive oil, and water to form a dough; rest 15 minutes
2. Sauté onions, garlic, peppers; add lentils, cumin, paprika, salt, pepper; cook 5 minutes
3. Roll dough, cut circles; fill, seal edges with a fork
4. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes until golden
FAQs:
– Can I use store-bought dough? Yes, it saves time.
– What else can fill them? Try potatoes, mushrooms, or assorted veggies.
Vegan Empanadas
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Price updated on December 10, 2025 at 6:58 PM
Fabrica de Masas Baeza – Empanada Dough Mix 35 oz (1 Kg).
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Goya Tapa Empanada Dough Shell, 11.6 Ounce — 16 per case.
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Tortillada – Large Empanada Maker Mold Kit (6 Inch) / Set of 7 pieces in…
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KAYCROWN Empanada Maker Press, Stainless Steel Dumpling Maker Set, 2-in-…
Amazon$28.993. Vegan Arroz con Gandules
A festive Puerto Rican staple reimagined vegan. Fragrant gandules and bright sofrito bring warmth and color to a weeknight or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups long-grain rice
– 1 can gandules (pigeon peas), drained
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup sofrito
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 tsp oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Sauté onions and garlic until translucent
2. Add sofrito and cook 1 minute
3. Stir in rice, gandules, broth, oregano; season
4. Boil, cover, simmer 25 minutes; rest 5 minutes
FAQs:
– Can I use brown rice? Yes; adjust cooking time.
– What to serve with it? Fresh salad or roasted vegetables.
Vegan Arroz con Gandules
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Price updated on December 10, 2025 at 6:58 PM
Goya Foods Green Pigeon Peas (Gandules), Low Sodium, 15-Ounce (Pack of 24)
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Knorr Professional Select Vegetable Base Bouillon, Vegetarian, Gluten Fr…
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Roland Foods Sofrito with Aji Amarillo, Specialty Imported Food, 35.2 Ou…
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4. Vegan Tostones
Crisp, salty plantain rounds that shine with garlicky dips. A Puerto Rican street-food favorite reimagined for plant-based kitchens.
Ingredients:
– 2 green plantains
– 1 cup olive oil for frying
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil over medium heat
2. Fry plantain slices 3-4 minutes per side
3. Drain on paper towels and flatten
4. Fry again 2-3 minutes until crisp
5. Drain, season with salt
FAQs:
– Can I bake them? They won’t be as crisp, but it works for a lighter option.
– How to store leftovers? Refrigerate and re-crisp in the oven.
Fun fact: In vegan puerto rican recipes, double-frying plantains creates a crisp tostone that’s irresistible with garlicky dips. This one snack proves plant-based street food can be bold, approachable, and deeply Puerto Rican.
Vegan Tostones
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Price updated on December 10, 2025 at 6:58 PM
Lodge 12 Inch Cast Iron Skillet with Red Silicone Hot Handle Holder – Pr…
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5. Vegan Pastellón
Think lasagna, but built with sweet plantains and savory lentil filling. A hearty, crowd-pleasing dish with a touch of island sweetness.
Ingredients:
– 3 ripe plantains
– 2 cups cooked lentils
– 1 cup tomato sauce
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat 375°F (190°C). Sauté onions and garlic; mix with lentils, tomato sauce, oregano, salt, pepper
2. Layer plantains and filling in a dish; top with remaining plantains
3. Cover and bake 30 minutes; uncover and bake 10 minutes more
FAQs:
– Can I use green plantains? Yes, with a firmer texture.
– Is it gluten-free? Yes, naturally.
Vegan Pastellón
Editor’s Choice
Price updated on December 10, 2025 at 6:59 PM
DOWAN Casserole Dish, 9×13 Ceramic Baking Dish, Large Lasagna Pan Deep f…
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Bob’s Red Mill Green Lentils, 24oz (Pack of 4) – Non GMO, Vegan, Kosher
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Gramercy Adjustable Mandoline Food Slicer, Mandoline Slicer for Kitchen,…
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6. Vegan Sancocho
A comforting, veggie-forward stew that feels like a warm hug. Hearty vegetables and spices come together in a soulful one-pot meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 large potato, cubed
– 1 carrot, sliced
– 1/2 cup corn
– 1/2 bell pepper, diced
– 1 small onion, diced
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 6 cups vegetable broth
– 1/2 tsp cumin
– 1/2 tsp oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Sauté onion and garlic
2. Add vegetables, broth, and spices
3. Bring to boil, simmer 30 minutes
4. Adjust seasoning; finish with a squeeze of lime if desired
FAQs:
– Can I use frozen vegetables? Yes.
– How long to store leftovers? Up to 3 days in the fridge.
Vegan Sancocho
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Price updated on December 10, 2025 at 6:59 PM
Pacific Foods Low Sodium Organic Vegetable Broth, 32 oz Carton (Case of 12)
Amazon$36.84
Imagine Organic Vegetarian No-Chicken Broth, 32 fl oz (Pack of 6)
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7. Vegan Tostones Rellenos
Toasted plantain cups stuffed with a savory bean filling for a fun, bite-size treat. Crisp edges with a creamy center delight guests.
Ingredients:
– 2 green plantains
– 1 can black beans, drained
– 1/2 onion, diced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1/2 tsp cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Slice and fry plantains until lightly golden
2. Flatten and fry again until crisp
3. Sauté onion and garlic; add beans with cumin, salt, pepper
4. Fill plantain cups with bean mix and serve hot
FAQs:
– Can I bake them? They won’t be as crisp.
– How long does the filling keep? Up to 3 days in the fridge.
❝ Fun fact: 2 green plantains yield 4 crisp tostones rellenos, a perfect, bite-sized addition to vegan puerto rican recipes. Fry, flatten, and fry again for a crisp edge and creamy center. Pro tip: stuff with seasoned beans and a squeeze of lime for bold flavor. ❞
Vegan Tostones Rellenos
Editor’s Choice
Price updated on December 10, 2025 at 7:00 PM
Lodge 12 Inch Cast Iron Skillet with Red Silicone Hot Handle Holder – Pr…
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Utopia Kitchen Cast Iron Skillets 12 Inch, Chef’s Pan, Pre-Seasoned Fryi…
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Stargazer 12-Inch Cast Iron Skillet | Made in USA, Seasoned, Premium Fry…
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Cuisinel Cast Iron Skillet with Lid – 12″-inch Pre-Seasoned Covered Fryi…
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Lodge 12 Inch Cast Iron Pre-Seasoned Skillet – Signature Teardrop Handle…
Amazon$29.908. Vegan Bacalao Guisado
Eggplant or tofu stands in for bacalao in a creamy, spiced stew that nods to the original. Rich, savory, and deeply comforting.
Ingredients:
– 1 large eggplant, diced
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 bell pepper, diced
– 2 tomatoes, diced
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp oregano
– 1/4 cup olives, sliced
– Olive oil for cooking
Instructions:
1. Sauté onion and garlic in oil
2. Add eggplant and pepper; cook until tender
3. Stir in tomatoes, paprika, oregano, olives; simmer 15-20 minutes
4. Serve with rice or bread
FAQs:
– Can I use tofu? Yes, great for extra protein.
– How long to store leftovers? Up to 3 days in the fridge.
Did you know that swapping eggplant for bacalao cuts sodium by up to 40% in vegan Puerto Rican recipes? This vegan bacalao guisado proves plant-based versions can be rich, savory, and deeply comforting.
Vegan Bacalao Guisado
Editor’s Choice
Price updated on December 10, 2025 at 6:59 PM
Atlas 1 LT Cold Press Extra Virgin Olive Oil with Polyphenol Rich from M…
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Bragg Organic Extra Virgin Olive Oil – 32 fl oz – Sourced from Organic G…
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Pompeian USDA Organic Smooth Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Contains Polyphenol…
Amazon$21.489. Vegan Flan de Coco
Creamy coconut flan that satisfies a sweet tooth without dairy. Silky texture and tropical aroma in every bite.
Ingredients:
– 1 can coconut milk
– 1/2 cup agave or maple syrup
– 1/4 cup cornstarch
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and set up a water bath
2. Warm coconut milk with syrup and salt
3. Whisk cornstarch with vanilla; combine with hot coconut mix
4. Pour into mold; bake in water bath 30 minutes
5. Chill at least 2 hours; serve with toasted coconut
FAQs:
– Can I use other milks? Coconut milk is traditional for flavor.
– How long does it keep? Refrigerate up to 5 days.
Vegan Flan de Coco
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Price updated on December 10, 2025 at 6:59 PM
Native Forest Organic Unsweetened Coconut Milk – Canned Coconut Milk, No…
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Madhava Organic Amber Agave, 46 Fluid Ounce (Pack of 2)
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10. Vegan Coquito
A festive coconut-forward drink that mirrors the creamy delight of the classic. Spiced and smooth, it’s one for holiday toasts or cozy nights in.
Ingredients:
– 1 can coconut milk
– 1 can coconut cream
– 1/2 cup agave syrup
– 1 tsp cinnamon
– 1/4 cup rum (optional)
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Blend all ingredients until smooth
2. Chill several hours for extra chill
3. Serve over ice with a dusting of cinnamon
FAQs:
– How long does it keep? About a week in the fridge.
– Any substitutions? Use maple syrup or date syrup for non-honey sweetness.
Vegan Coquito
Editor’s Choice
Price updated on December 10, 2025 at 7:01 PM
Vita Coco Original Organic Coconut Milk, Plant Based, Dairy Free Milk Al…
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Madhava Organic Amber Agave, 46 Fluid Ounce (Pack of 2)
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Conclusion
These vegan Puerto Rican recipes showcase the island’s bold and vibrant flavors while prioritizing plant-based ingredients. From comforting stews to delicious desserts, the diverse range of dishes proves that you don’t need to sacrifice taste for health. Each recipe provides a little taste of Puerto Rican culture and the warmth of its culinary traditions, making them a wonderful addition to any meal. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and bring the spirit of Puerto Rico into your kitchen!
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Frequently Asked Questions
What Are the Best Vegan Puerto Rican Recipes for Bold Plant-Based Flavor?
This article spotlights 10 vegan Puerto Rican recipes that deliver bold plant-based flavor.
Explore vegan puerto rican recipes that reinterpret street-food favorites with plant-based ingredients.
Expect flavorful plant-based cooking across plant-based Puerto Rican dishes and vegan Caribbean cuisine, all rooted in traditional vegan recipes and designed for healthy Puerto Rican meals.
How Can Traditional Puerto Rican Street Foods Be Turned Into Tasty Vegan Versions?
Turn classics into vegan delights by swapping meat fillings for beans, lentils, mushrooms, or mashed plantains.
Build flavor with vegan sofrito, garlic, onions, peppers, and adobo to keep that Puerto Rican taste intact.
Try baking or air-frying instead of deep-frying to keep things lighter while preserving crunch and aroma.
These approaches help you recreate favorites like mofongo, alcapurrias, and tostones in a plant-based way.
What Staples Should I Keep On Hand to Cook Plant-Based Puerto Rican Dishes?
Stock your pantry with essentials for plant-based Puerto Rican dishes: plantains, yuca, and a variety of beans (black beans, pigeon peas).
Also have rice, coconut milk, and canned tomatoes for quick sauces, plus sofrito and recaito (vegan bases) to layer authentic flavor.
Keep annatto oil or achiote paste, garlic, onions, peppers, olive oil, lime, cilantro, and your favorite Puerto Rican spices like adobo and sazón on hand for ready-to-go flavor.
Are These Vegan Puerto Rican Recipes Healthy and Easy for Weeknights?
Absolutely. Many of these dishes are built around fiber-rich beans, fresh veggies, and simple sauces, making healthy Puerto Rican meals approachable on weeknights.
Tips include using canned beans for speed, prepping sofrito and sauces in advance, and batch-cooking components like beans and rice.
With flavorful plant-based cooking techniques, you can enjoy vegan Caribbean cuisine without sacrificing speed or taste.
Where Can I Find More Tips on Flavorful Plant-Based Cooking in Puerto Rican Cuisine?
Beyond the 10 recipes in the article, look for resources on vegan Caribbean cuisine and plant-based Puerto Rican dishes to expand your repertoire.
Explore substitutions, meal-prep ideas, and sourcing tips to keep meals exciting and budget-friendly.
By sticking to traditional vegan recipes and experimenting with flavorful plant-based cooking, you’ll keep enjoying bold Puerto Rican flavors while staying true to your vegan lifestyle.
Related Topics
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Caribbean cuisine
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