Let me tell you, there’s something wonderfully satisfying about a big, vibrant pan of Brown Rice Veggie Paella. This dish is not just a feast for the eyes; it’s packed with nutritious ingredients that make it a guilt-free indulgence. I remember the first time I made this paella; the aroma of sautéed garlic and peppers wafted through my kitchen, and I couldn’t wait to dig in! The combination of nutty brown rice, colorful veggies, and warm spices creates a comforting meal that’s perfect for any day of the week. Plus, it’s vegan and full of fiber, making it a wholesome choice that leaves you feeling energized. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll be coming back for more!

Ingredients for Brown Rice Veggie Paella

1 cup brown rice, rinsed and drained
2 cups vegetable broth, or you can use water if you’re in a pinch
1 red bell pepper, diced into bite-sized pieces
1 green bell pepper, diced to match the red pepper
1 cup peas, frozen or fresh, both work beautifully
1 onion, chopped finely for that sweet flavor
2 cloves garlic, minced to pack a flavorful punch
1 teaspoon smoked paprika for a deliciously smoky taste
1/2 teaspoon saffron threads, if you want to add a touch of luxury
2 tablespoons olive oil to sauté everything to perfection
Salt to taste, because you need just the right seasoning
Pepper to taste, for that little extra kick

How to Prepare Brown Rice Veggie Paella

Now, let’s get our hands dirty and make this delicious Brown Rice Veggie Paella! It’s a straightforward process, and I promise, you’ll be amazed at how good it turns out. Just follow these easy steps, and soon you’ll be enjoying a colorful, flavorful meal that makes your kitchen smell divine!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Start by heating the olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. You want it nice and hot to sauté those veggies perfectly!
Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pan. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes until they’re soft and fragrant—trust me, the smell is heavenly!
Next, stir in the diced red and green bell peppers and cook for another 5 minutes. You’re looking for those vibrant colors to brighten up your dish!
Now, it’s time to add the rinsed brown rice, smoked paprika, and saffron threads. Give it a good stir to coat the rice in all those wonderful flavors.
Pour in the vegetable broth and bring it to a boil. Once it’s bubbling away, reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let it simmer for about 40 minutes. This is when the magic happens!
After 40 minutes, check on the rice. If it’s absorbed most of the liquid, add the peas, season with salt and pepper, and cook for an additional 5 minutes. This will give the peas a chance to warm through and stay bright green.
Finally, fluff the paella with a fork and let it sit for a few minutes before serving. This step allows the flavors to mingle even more!

Nutritional Information for Brown Rice Veggie Paella

This hearty Brown Rice Veggie Paella isn’t just delicious, it’s also packed with nutrition! Each serving (about 1 cup) has approximately 250 calories, 5g of fat, and 8g of protein. You’ll also get around 45g of carbohydrates and 6g of fiber, making it a filling option. These values are estimates, but they give you a good idea of how wholesome this dish is. Enjoy knowing you’re fueling your body with goodness!

Tips for Success with Brown Rice Veggie Paella

To make your Brown Rice Veggie Paella truly shine, here are my top tips! First, make sure to rinse the brown rice to remove excess starch; this helps achieve a fluffier texture. If you’re feeling adventurous, swap out the veggies—zucchini, artichokes, or even asparagus would work beautifully! For an extra flavor kick, add a splash of lemon juice or a handful of fresh herbs like parsley right before serving. And don’t rush the simmering process; letting it cook low and slow is key to developing those rich, savory flavors that make this dish so irresistible!

Why You’ll Love This Brown Rice Veggie Paella

It’s a nutritious, hearty meal packed with wholesome ingredients.
Super easy to prepare—perfect for busy weeknights!
The smoky flavors from paprika and saffron create a delightful taste experience.
Versatile! You can use whatever veggies you have on hand.
Great for meal prep; it tastes even better the next day!

Common Questions About Brown Rice Veggie Paella

Can I use white rice instead of brown rice?
Absolutely! While I love the nutty flavor of brown rice, you can definitely use white rice if that’s what you have. Just keep in mind that the cooking time will be shorter—around 20-25 minutes should do it!

What vegetables can I add?
You can get creative with your veggies! I’ve used zucchini, green beans, and even artichokes. Just remember to chop them into similar sizes for even cooking.

Is this paella gluten-free?
Yes! This Brown Rice Veggie Paella is naturally gluten-free, making it a fantastic meal option for anyone with gluten sensitivities.

How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat it gently on the stovetop with a splash of vegetable broth to keep it moist!

Can I freeze Brown Rice Veggie Paella?
Yes, you can freeze it! Just let it cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It should keep well for about 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Serving Suggestions for Brown Rice Veggie Paella

This Brown Rice Veggie Paella is so versatile that it pairs beautifully with a variety of sides! I love serving it alongside a fresh green salad drizzled with lemon vinaigrette to add a zesty contrast. You can also complement it with some crusty bread to soak up all those delicious flavors. If you’re feeling indulgent, a dollop of creamy avocado or a side of roasted vegetables works wonders too. Enjoy experimenting and finding your perfect pairing!

For more delicious recipes, check out our all recipes page!

For a great side dish, try these honey-glazed carrots!

Learn more about the health benefits of brown rice!

Brown Rice Veggie Paella: A Wholesome Delight to Savor

Author: Lisa
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Main Dish
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Spanish
Diet: Vegan

Print Recipe

Description

A hearty and nutritious brown rice veggie paella packed with flavor.

Instructions

Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.
Add onion and garlic, sauté until soft.
Stir in bell peppers and cook for another 5 minutes.
Add brown rice, smoked paprika, and saffron.
Pour in vegetable broth, bring to a boil.
Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 40 minutes.
Add peas, season with salt and pepper, and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
Fluff with a fork and serve hot.

Notes

Use any vegetables you have on hand.
For extra flavor, add herbs like thyme or parsley.
Let the paella sit for a few minutes before serving.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 250
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 400mg
Fat: 5g
Saturated Fat: 0.5g
Unsaturated Fat: 4g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fiber: 6g
Protein: 8g
Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: Brown Rice Veggie Paella

Spread the love