Are you a busy professional who craves delicious, healthy meals but struggles to find the time to cook? You’re not alone! Many of us want to eat well, yet our hectic schedules make it feel impossible. That’s why I created this post. I know how overwhelming it can be to juggle work, life, and meal prep, so I put together a list of 10 vegan rice cooker recipes that are perfect for your lifestyle.
If you’re someone who loves quick and easy meals, especially vegan one pot meals, this collection is just for you. These recipes are designed to fit into your busy day, so you can enjoy nourishing, plant-based dinners without spending hours in the kitchen. From creamy risottos to hearty stews, each dish is not only simple to make but also bursting with flavor.
In this post, you’ll discover easy rice cooker recipes that require minimal prep and cooking time. Every recipe is crafted to be healthy and satisfying, ensuring you can whip up a meal that fuels your day and delights your taste buds. Picture coming home after a long day, tossing your ingredients into the rice cooker, and relaxing while it does all the work for you.
Plus, these quick vegan meals are perfect for meal prepping. You can make larger portions and enjoy leftovers throughout the week. So, whether you’re looking to spice up your weeknight dinners or impress your friends with plant-based rice dishes, this guide has got you covered.
Let’s dive into these simple yet scrumptious recipes that will make your dinner routine effortless and enjoyable!
Key Takeaways
– Discover 10 delicious vegan rice cooker recipes perfect for busy professionals wanting quick meals.
– Each recipe focuses on one-pot meals that minimize cleanup and cooking time.
– Enjoy a variety of flavors, from creamy risottos to spicy stews, catering to diverse taste preferences.
– Learn how to use your rice cooker not just for rice, but for healthy vegan dinners too.
– These recipes offer practical meal prep options, allowing for easy leftovers throughout the week.
1. Creamy Vegan Mushroom Risotto
Craving something rich and creamy? This vegan mushroom risotto is like a warm hug in a bowl. With earthy mushrooms and savory garlic, it delivers a delightful combination of flavors that will transport you straight to Italy. Plus, it’s a breeze to whip up, making it perfect for a cozy dinner or a casual lunch with friends. You’ll love how satisfying and nutritious it is, all while being incredibly simple to prepare.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 cup chopped mushrooms (button or cremini)
– 1/2 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup nutritional yeast
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
1. In the rice cooker, sauté onions and garlic until fragrant.
2. Add the mushrooms and cook for 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the Arborio rice and vegetable broth.
4. Set the rice cooker to the ‘white rice’ setting and let it cook.
5. Once done, stir in nutritional yeast, salt, and pepper.
6. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
FAQs:
– Can I use different types of mushrooms? Absolutely! Feel free to mix and match your favorites.
– Can I make it gluten-free? Yes, use gluten-free vegetable broth and verify the nutritional yeast is gluten-free.
Creamy Vegan Mushroom Risotto
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Price updated on December 17, 2025 at 10:31 AM
Riso Scotti Arborio Rice for Risotto, 11 lbs (5×1 kg) Product of Italy, …
Amazon$37.99
Lundberg Organic Arborio Rice, Rich Flavor, Creamy Texture, Perfect for …
Amazon$26.94
Roland Foods Arborio Rice, Superfino, 35.2 Ounce Box, Pack of 5
Amazon$40.60
RiceSelect Arborio Rice, Risotto Rice, Gluten-Free, Non-GMO, 32 oz (Pack…
Amazon$30.95
Cucina & Amore Superfino Italian Arborio Rice – 8.8 Lbs (17.6oz x 8 Pack…
Amazon$29.992. Spicy Chickpea and Quinoa Bowl
If you’re looking for a hearty meal that packs a punch, this spicy chickpea and quinoa bowl is just what you need. The crispy chickpeas and fluffy quinoa come together with a kick of spice, making it a vibrant choice for lunch or dinner. It’s nutritious, easy to prepare, and oh-so-satisfying. You can customize it with your favorite toppings, ensuring every bowl is uniquely yours.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa
– 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1/2 tsp cumin
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– Fresh lemon juice for dressing
Instructions:
1. Rinse the quinoa and add it to the rice cooker with vegetable broth.
2. In a bowl, mix the chickpeas with chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Add chickpeas to the rice cooker once the quinoa is halfway cooked.
4. Let it finish cooking, then fluff with a fork.
5. Serve with a drizzle of lemon juice and optional toppings.
FAQs:
– Can I use frozen chickpeas? Yes, just make sure to thaw them before mixing with spices.
– Can I make it gluten-free? Yes, quinoa is naturally gluten-free, making this dish a great choice.
Spicy Chickpea and Quinoa Bowl
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Price updated on December 17, 2025 at 10:31 AM
COMFEE’ Compact Rice Cooker, 6-in-1 Stainless Steel Multi Cooker, Slow C…
Amazon$46.98
CUCKOO Micom Rice Cooker 6-Cup Uncooked / 12-Cup Cooked with Nonstick In…
Amazon$82.99
AROMA Digital Rice Cooker, 4-Cup (Uncooked) / 8-Cup (Cooked), Steamer, G…
Amazon$34.99
BetterBody Foods Organic Quinoa, Vegan, Gluten Free, Low Glycemic Rice R…
Amazon$20.09
Eden Organic Garbanzo Beans, Chickpeas, 15 oz Can (12-Pack Case), No Sal…
Amazon$41.953. Coconut Curry Brown Rice
Transport your taste buds to a tropical paradise with this coconut curry brown rice. The creamy coconut milk combines beautifully with aromatic curry spices, creating a delightful dish that feels exotic yet comforting. It’s perfect for those who want to enjoy a taste of something special without spending all day in the kitchen. Serve it with fresh veggies or your favorite vegan proteins for a complete meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup brown rice
– 1 can coconut milk
– 1 cup vegetable broth
– 1 tbsp curry powder
– 1/2 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In the rice cooker, sauté onions and garlic until soft.
2. Add the brown rice, coconut milk, vegetable broth, and curry powder.
3. Stir well and set the rice cooker to the appropriate setting.
4. Once cooked, fluff the rice and season with salt.
5. Serve warm and enjoy with your favorite sides.
FAQs:
– Can I add other vegetables? Yes, feel free to toss in bell peppers or peas before cooking for added flavor.
– Can I use white rice instead? Yes, but you might need to adjust the cooking time.
Coconut Curry Brown Rice
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Price updated on December 17, 2025 at 10:32 AM
COSORI Rice Cooker 10 Cup, 24h Keep Warm, Non-stick Ceramic Inner Pot, 1…
Amazon$89.99
COMFEE’ Compact Rice Cooker, 6-in-1 Stainless Steel Multi Cooker, Slow C…
Amazon$46.98
Instant Pot Duo 7-in-1 Mini Electric Pressure Cooker, Slow Rice Cooker, …
Amazon$89.99
Thai Kitchen Organic Unsweetened Coconut Milk, 13.66 fl oz (Pack of 12)
Amazon$25.98
Rani Curry Powder EXTRA HOT (11-Spice Authentic Indian Blend) 80oz (5lbs…
Amazon$36.994. Lentil and Vegetable Stew
Warm up with this hearty lentil and vegetable stew, perfect for chilly nights. Loaded with protein-packed lentils and colorful veggies, this dish is as nutritious as it is comforting. The flavors meld together beautifully in the rice cooker, allowing you to enjoy a wholesome meal without much effort. It’s ideal for meal prep, as it tastes even better the next day!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup green or brown lentils
– 1 carrot, diced
– 1 celery stalk, diced
– 1 can diced tomatoes
– 1 onion, chopped
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 tsp thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In the rice cooker, add all ingredients and stir until well combined.
2. Set the rice cooker to the stew setting or the equivalent.
3. Allow it to cook until lentils are tender and vegetables are cooked through.
4. Adjust seasoning and serve hot with crusty bread.
5. Can be garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
FAQs:
– Can I add different vegetables? Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with seasonal veggies.
– Can I make this dish in advance? Yes, it stores well in the fridge for several days.
Lentil and Vegetable Stew
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Price updated on December 17, 2025 at 10:32 AM
COSORI Rice Cooker 10 Cup, 24h Keep Warm, Non-stick Ceramic Inner Pot, 1…
Amazon$89.99
AROMA Professional Digital Rice Cooker, Multicooker, 4-Cup (Uncooked) / …
Amazon$39.99
AROMA Professional Digital Rice Cooker, 10-Cup (Uncooked) / 20-Cup (Cook…
Amazon$47.00
Instant Pot Duo 7-in-1 Mini Electric Pressure Cooker, Slow Rice Cooker, …
Amazon$89.99
Gourmia Rice Cooker – 5 Qt Capacity, 20 Cup Cooked, 10 Cup Uncooked, Dig…
Amazon$62.995. Sweet Potato and Black Bean Chili
Get ready for a flavor-packed experience with this sweet potato and black bean chili. Its perfect balance of sweetness from the potatoes and heartiness from the black beans makes it an enjoyable meal any time of year. The spices add just the right amount of warmth, making it particularly comforting after a long day. Plus, it’s great for batch cooking, so you can easily enjoy it throughout the week.
Ingredients:
– 2 sweet potatoes, diced
– 1 can black beans, drained
– 1 can diced tomatoes
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 2 tsp chili powder
– 1 tsp cumin
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In the rice cooker, combine all ingredients and stir well.
2. Set to the chili or stew setting and let it cook.
3. Once ready, adjust seasoning and allow to cool slightly before serving.
4. Serve with avocado or cilantro for an extra flavor boost.
FAQs:
– Can I use other beans? Yes, feel free to substitute with your favorites.
– Can I freeze leftovers? Yes, this chili freezes well for later enjoyment.
Sweet Potato and Black Bean Chili proves that vegan rice cooker recipes can be cozy and fast for busy professionals. Batch-cook this, and you’ll save hours while enjoying comforting, flavor-packed lunches all week.
Sweet Potato and Black Bean Chili
Editor’s Choice
Price updated on December 17, 2025 at 10:34 AM
Instant Pot Duo Plus 9-in-1 Multicooker, Pressure Cooker, Slow Cook, Ric…
Amazon$139.99
Instant Pot Duo 7-in-1 Electric Pressure Cooker, Slow Cooker, Rice, Stea…
Amazon$109.99
COMFEE’ 9-in-1 Electric Pressure Cooker, 14 Presets Instant Multi Slow C…
Amazon$81.99
AROMA Professional Digital Rice Cooker, 10-Cup (Uncooked) / 20-Cup (Cook…
Amazon$47.00
COSORI Rice Cooker 10 Cup, 24h Keep Warm, Non-stick Ceramic Inner Pot, 1…
Amazon$89.99
6. Mediterranean Couscous Salad
Looking for a light and refreshing meal? This Mediterranean couscous salad is bursting with color and flavor! Packed with fresh veggies like cucumber and tomatoes, it’s not just visually appealing; it’s nutritious too. The zesty lemon juice and olive oil make every bite refreshing. It’s incredibly easy to prepare and can be enjoyed warm or cold, making it perfect for meal prep or picnics.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup couscous
– 1 1/2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 cucumber, diced
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 bell pepper, diced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Juice of 1 lemon
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In the rice cooker, bring vegetable broth to a boil.
2. Add couscous, turn off the cooker, and let it sit covered for 5 minutes.
3. Fluff couscous with a fork, then add vegetables, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
4. Stir to combine and serve warm or cold.
FAQs:
– Can I add protein? Yes, chickpeas or tofu make great additions!
– Can I use different vegetables? Absolutely! Customize it to your preference.
Mediterranean Couscous Salad
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Price updated on December 17, 2025 at 10:34 AM
CUCKOO Micom Rice Cooker 6-Cup Uncooked / 12-Cup Cooked with Nonstick In…
AmazonEUR 64.53
COSORI Rice Cooker 10 Cup, 24h Keep Warm, Non-stick Ceramic Inner Pot, 1…
AmazonEUR 76.42
Bob’s Red Mill Golden Couscous, 24oz (Pack of 4) – Non GMO, Vegan, Moroc…
Amazon$23.72
Near East Couscous Mix, Mediterranean Curry, 5.7 Oz(Pack of 12)
Amazon$30.36
Atlas 1 LT Cold Press Extra Virgin Olive Oil with Polyphenol Rich from M…
Amazon$23.317. Vegetable Biryani
Experience the rich and aromatic flavors of this vegetable biryani, a dish that’s bound to impress. The blend of spices, vibrant vegetables, and fluffy basmati rice creates a delightful one-pot meal that feels special yet is easy to make. You can customize it with your choice of veggies and spices, making it as unique as you. Enjoy it on its own or with a tangy vegan raita for a complete dining experience.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups basmati rice
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, beans)
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tbsp biryani spice mix
– 3 cups vegetable broth
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Sauté onions and garlic in the rice cooker until golden.
2. Add mixed vegetables, rice, biryani spice mix, and broth.
3. Stir well and set to the appropriate rice cooking setting.
4. Once cooked, let it sit for 5 minutes before fluffing with a fork.
5. Serve with a side of vegan raita or yogurt.
FAQs:
– Can I add nuts or raisins? Yes, they add a lovely texture and sweetness!
– Can I make it spicier? Adjust the biryani spice mix to your liking.
Vegetable Biryani
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Price updated on December 17, 2025 at 10:35 AM
COSORI Rice Cooker 10 Cup, 24h Keep Warm, Non-stick Ceramic Inner Pot, 1…
Amazon$89.99
Instant Pot 4QT RIO Mini 7-in-1 Multi-Cooker, Pressure Cooker, Slow cook…
Amazon$79.99
CUCKOO Micom Rice Cooker 6 Cup Uncooked / 12 Cup Cooked, Korean Fuzzy Lo…
Amazon$79.99
AROMA Professional Digital Rice Cooker, Multicooker, 4-Cup (Uncooked) / …
Amazon$39.99
TOSHIBA OriginTaste Rice Cooker 5.5-Cup Uncooked, Fuzzy Logic, 15-in-1 F…
Amazon$104.228. Thai Peanut Noodle Bowl
Craving a quick and tasty meal? This Thai peanut noodle bowl is just what you need! The creamy peanut sauce combined with whole grain noodles and fresh veggies creates a satisfying dish that’s perfect for any time of day. It’s a simple recipe that comes together in no time, making it ideal for busy evenings. Feel free to kick it up a notch with some chili flakes if you like heat.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz whole grain noodles
– 1 cup bell peppers, sliced
– 1 cup shredded carrots
– 1/4 cup peanut butter
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1 tbsp maple syrup
– 1/2 tsp garlic powder
– Water to thin, as needed
Instructions:
1. Cook noodles in the rice cooker until al dente and drain.
2. In a bowl, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, maple syrup, and garlic powder.
3. Combine noodles with peanut sauce and vegetables in the rice cooker.
4. Stir until everything is well coated.
5. Serve warm and enjoy!
FAQs:
– Can I use rice noodles instead? Yes, just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
– Can I add protein? Tofu or tempeh would be great additions!
Thai Peanut Noodle Bowl
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Price updated on December 17, 2025 at 10:34 AM
COSORI Rice Cooker 10 Cup, 24h Keep Warm, Non-stick Ceramic Inner Pot, 1…
Amazon$89.99
Spread The Love NAKED Organic Peanut Butter (Organic, All Natural, Vegan…
Amazon$37.77
Annie Chun’s Noodle Bowl, Thai-Style Pad Thai, Vegan, Non-GMO, 8.1-oz (P…
Amazon$28.30
Barilla Whole Grain Spaghetti Pasta, 16 oz. Box (Pack of 20) – Non-GMO, …
Amazon$29.60
Lotus Foods Organic Millet & Brown Rice Ramen – Gluten Free Ramen Noodle…
Amazon$22.959. Vegan Risotto with Spinach and Peas
Looking for a creamy dish that’s also healthy? This vegan risotto with spinach and peas is the answer! The combination of fresh spinach, tender peas, and rich Arborio rice creates a delightful meal that’s both comforting and nutrient-packed. Plus, the rice cooker does the work for you, letting you relax and unwind after a long day. Whether you’re dining solo or hosting friends, this risotto will be a hit!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 cup spinach, chopped
– 1 cup peas (fresh or frozen)
– 1/4 cup nutritional yeast
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse Arborio rice and add it to the rice cooker with vegetable broth.
2. Once it starts cooking, add in the peas and chopped spinach.
3. Cook until rice is creamy and tender.
4. Stir in nutritional yeast, salt, and pepper before serving.
5. Garnish with additional spinach or nutritional yeast if desired.
FAQs:
– Can I add other vegetables? Absolutely! Try adding mushrooms or bell peppers for extra flavor.
– Can I make it gluten-free? Yes, ensure the broth is gluten-free.
Fun fact: homemade vegan risotto in a rice cooker can rival stovetop texture with less hands-on time. Spinach and peas bring brightness, while Arborio absorbs flavors beautifully. In just one pot, you unlock easy vegan rice cooker recipes for busy professionals.
Vegan Risotto with Spinach and Peas
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Price updated on December 17, 2025 at 10:34 AM
Lundberg Organic Arborio Rice, Rich Flavor, Creamy Texture, Perfect for …
Amazon$26.94
DeLallo Arborio Rice, For Risotto, Made in Italy, Short Grain Rice with …
Amazon$22.95
Riso Scotti Arborio Rice for Risotto, 11 lbs (5×1 kg) Product of Italy, …
Amazon$37.99
RiceSelect Arborio Rice, Risotto Rice, Gluten-Free, Non-GMO, 32 oz (Pack…
Amazon$30.95
AROMA Digital Rice Cooker, 4-Cup (Uncooked) / 8-Cup (Cooked), Steamer, G…
Amazon$34.9910. Easy Vegetable Fried Rice
Need a quick meal that’s full of flavor? This easy vegetable fried rice is the perfect solution! It’s a fantastic way to use up leftover rice and is packed with colorful veggies. The combination of soy sauce and sesame oil creates a delicious harmony that’s hard to resist. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile—feel free to add any leftover proteins for a heartier dish.
Ingredients:
– 3 cups cooked rice
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, bell peppers)
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tbsp sesame oil
– 2 green onions, sliced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
Instructions:
1. In the rice cooker, heat sesame oil and sauté garlic until fragrant.
2. Add mixed vegetables and cook for 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the cooked rice and soy sauce until well combined.
4. Add sliced green onions and mix everything together.
5. Serve warm and enjoy!
FAQs:
– Can I adjust the flavors? Yes, customize with your favorite sauces or spices!
– Can this dish be frozen? Yes, it stores well in the fridge for a few days.
I used to dread weeknights, but this easy vegetable fried rice changed the game. It fits into my vegan rice cooker recipes plan, turning leftovers into a vibrant, one-pot meal. Fast, flexible, and delicious for busy professionals.
Easy Vegetable Fried Rice
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Price updated on December 17, 2025 at 10:36 AM
Aroma Housewares 8-Cup (Cooked) (4-Cup UNCOOKED) Digital Rice Cooker and…
Amazon$35.99
Aroma Housewares Select Stainless Rice Cooker & Warmer with Uncoated Inn…
Amazon$43.99
Rice Cooker Replacement Pot, Stainless Steel Non-Stick Inner Pot with Du…
Amazon$28.89
304 Stainless Steel Inner Cooking Pot 3L Replacement Cookware Inner Pot …
Amazon$39.29
Amosfun 2L Rice Cooker Inner Pot Replacement, 7(L) x7(W) x4.2(H) Inch St…
Amazon$32.89Conclusion
These vegan rice cooker recipes offer a variety of delicious one-pot meals that prove healthy eating can be both simple and enjoyable.
No need to spend hours in the kitchen when you can whip up these mouthwatering dishes in a fraction of the time! Explore these recipes to bring variety to your meals without the stress,
perfect for those with busy lifestyles. Cheers to quick, healthy, and tasty meals that brighten up your day!
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best vegan rice cooker recipes for busy professionals?
These picks are designed for busy professionals seeking easy vegan meals you can make in one pot with a rice cooker.
Look for vegan rice cooker recipes that pair grains with legumes and vegetables for a complete meal.
A simple approach is to combine a grain (brown rice, quinoa, or barley) with a protein (lentils or beans) and colorful veggies, then season with garlic, onion, and herbs.
Prepping ingredients in advance and using a flavorful broth keeps prep time to a minimum.
After cooking, let it rest for a few minutes, then finish with fresh herbs for a satisfying plant-based rice dish.
How can I make easy rice cooker meals that are healthy and satisfying?
To craft healthy vegan dinners that also taste great, focus on balance: complex carbs from brown rice or quinoa, a protein source like chickpeas or lentils, and plenty of veggies.
In your rice cooker, start with grains and liquid, then add a protein and sturdy vegetables that can handle the simmer.
Use easy rice cooker recipes technique like layering ingredients with the protein on top to avoid undercooking.
Flavor with curry paste, soy sauce, or lemon zest for a bright finish.
These are perfect for quick vegan meals that still feel comforting.
Can a rice cooker handle dishes other than plain rice for vegan diets?
Yes—your rice cooker can do more than just plain rice. Try plant-based rice dishes like lentil curry, chickpea stir-fry with veggies, or a creamy coconut rice with beans.
The key is to choose ingredients with similar cooking times and enough moisture so everything blends into a cohesive vegan one pot meal without drying out.
A few minutes of pre-soaking dried beans or splurging on quick-cooking lentils can expand your repertoire of vegan rice cooker recipes.
What kitchen tips help ensure successful vegan one pot meals in a rice cooker?
Here are practical tips for reliable, tasty vegan one pot meals in a rice cooker: avoid overfilling the pot, use the correct rice-to-liquid ratio, and layer ingredients so the grains cook evenly.
If your model has a sauté function, give aromatics a quick sauté before adding liquids.
Soak dried beans or use canned to save time, and add quick veggies toward the end so they stay bright.
Finish with fresh herbs or a squeeze of lime for a vibrant finish.
Are these vegan recipes easy to meal-prep for a busy week?
Absolutely—these recipes are ideal for meal-prep and quick vegan meals during a busy week.
Make a larger batch, portion into individual containers, and store in the fridge for up to 4-5 days or freeze for longer.
Keep sauces separate if you reheat, or add them halfway through to avoid sogginess.
Reheat in the microwave or on the stove with a splash of water or broth, and top with greens or a fresh squeeze of lemon for a plant-based rice dish that still feels fresh.
Related Topics
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