This vegan garlic rice recipe will quickly become a staple in your kitchen!
If you’re getting bored with plain ol’ white or brown rice, this golden garlic rice is a true upgrade. The garlic, achiote, and broth give it an extra punch of flavor. If you’re not familiar with golden rice and you’re wondering how it tastes, then I would say it tastes similar to paella, but vegan of course. Fragrant, well-spiced, and delicious.
This golden garlic rice recipe is a great staple side dish for meal prepping. Prepare a big batch early in the week and add it to many different meals throughout. My favorite way of eating it is as a filling in a giant avocado-filled burrito with beans and rice. It’s also a great base for a Mexican-inspired buddha bowl alongside some pinto beans, sliced avocados, minced cilantro, chopped tomatoes, and diced red onion. And don’t forget to top with some salsa and lime juice!.
Never heard of achiote powder? You are in for a real treat! Achiote powder is made from annatto seeds and has a tart and peppery flavor. It’s often used for giving a dish color (like curcumin or saffron) and also adds some unique flavor to it.
Since in this recipe we saute it in oil with the garlic first, it brings out its distinct flavor and aroma even more. You are, of course, welcome to add more garlic if you are a super fan, and the same goes for other spices you think would match this dish. Always feel empowered to play with your food!
If you've been wondering what you can add to white rice to make it extra delicious-then this garlic rice recipe is for you!
Keep scrolling to the recipe card for the complete list of ingredients and recipe instructions!
Vegan garlic rice can be served as a side or as a main dish. You can also include it with these options:
Photos by Alfonso Revilla
Badria says
Hi. The achiote I see at the stores near me all like boullion full of salt. Are there options out there that are just the achiote?