Tropical Bliss in Every Bite: Casado Supreme - Your Costa Rican Feast

Cassado, also known as Casado, is a traditional Costa Rican dish that typically includes rice, black beans, plantains, and a protein source (often meat). Since you're looking for a vegan version without plantains, I'll provide you with a recipe for Vegan Casado without plantains. You can substitute the plantains with other vegetables of your choice.

Ingredients:

For the Rice:

• 1 cup long-grain white rice
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

For the Black Beans:

• 1 (15 oz) can of black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Vegan Protein:

• 1 cup of your choice of vegan protein (such as tofu, tempeh, or seitan), cubed or sliced
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce or tamari
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Salsa Lizano (optional, but traditional):

• If you can find it in your local store, use Salsa Lizano, a popular Costa Rican sauce. Otherwise, you can make a simple substitute by mixing 1/4 cup vegetable broth, 2 tablespoons vinegar, 1 tablespoon brown sugar, 1 teaspoon cumin, and a dash of hot sauce.

For the Vegetables (choose your favorites):

• Sliced avocado
• Sliced tomato
• Steamed or sautéed broccoli
• Shredded cabbage or lettuce
• Sliced bell peppers

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Rice:

   • In a medium saucepan, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat.
   • Add the rice and sauté for a couple of minutes until it becomes translucent.
   • Stir in the vegetable broth and salt.
   • Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15-20 minutes or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed. Fluff with a fork and set aside.

2. Prepare the Black Beans:

   • In a separate pan, sauté the diced onion and minced garlic in a bit of oil until they become translucent.
   • Add the drained black beans, ground cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
   • Cook for a few minutes until the beans are heated through and the flavors are well combined. Set aside.

3. Prepare the Vegan Protein:

   • In another pan, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
   • Add the cubed or sliced vegan protein.
   • Drizzle with soy sauce or tamari and sprinkle with smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
   • Sauté until the protein is golden brown and slightly crispy. Set aside.

4. Assemble the Casado:

   • Divide the cooked rice among serving plates.
   • Arrange the black beans, vegan protein, and your choice of vegetables around the rice.
   • If you have Salsa Lizano or the substitute sauce, drizzle it over the top.
   • Serve your vegan Casado with slices of avocado and tomato on the side.

Enjoy your homemade vegan Casado without plantains! Feel free to customize it with your favorite vegan protein and vegetables.