Vegan Red Rice with Sausage and Hot Sauce Recipe
If you’re craving a hearty, flavorful meal that’s totally plant-based and packs a punch, this Vegan Red Rice with Sausage and Hot Sauce Recipe is exactly what you need in your dinner rotation. The combination of smoky vegan sausage with a splash of hot sauce and vibrant tomato base transforms simple rice into a deeply satisfying dish. I’ve made this on lazy weeknights and casual weekend gatherings alike, and it never disappoints — trust me, once you try it, it’ll become one of your go-to comfort foods.
What makes this dish so special is how easy it is to whip up with just a few ingredients, and yet the flavor depth surprises everyone. The hot sauce adds the perfect zing, tempered just right by the tomato paste and the meaty texture of the vegan sausage. Plus, it’s naturally gluten-free if you pick the right sausage, so it’s great for lots of dietary needs. I love sharing this Vegan Red Rice with Sausage and Hot Sauce Recipe because it’s approachable, delicious, and versatile enough to switch up whenever you want.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient here plays a key role, balancing taste and texture to make this recipe sing. I always recommend investing in quality vegan sausage for that authentic savory bite, and picking your favorite hot sauce to dial up the heat just right.
- Cooked rice: I prefer day-old rice or rice cooled down; it holds up better and soaks in the sauce beautifully without getting mushy.
- Olive oil: This gives your dish a silky finish, plus it’s great for sautéing the sausage evenly.
- Vegan sausage: Look for a brand with good texture and seasoning — I use a package of four links and slice them for bite-sized pieces.
- Tomato paste: This adds a rich, concentrated flavor that makes the rice deep red and mouthwateringly savory.
- Hot sauce: I love Frank’s Red Hot for its balance of heat and tang, but feel free to use your favorite; adjust quantity depending on how spicy you want your rice.
Variations
I like to keep this recipe flexible because everyone’s taste buds are a little different. Feel free to experiment or personalize it to suit your mood or what you have in the pantry.
- Spicy Level: If you’re sensitive to heat, I dial the hot sauce back to 1/4 cup, but for my spice-loving friends, cranking it up to 1/2 cup never disappoints — it’s always a crowd-pleaser!
- Veggies: Sometimes, I toss in diced bell peppers or corn to add some crunch and color.
- Protein Boost: Swapping the vegan sausage for spiced tofu or tempeh cubes works well if you want to keep it light or need a different texture.
- Grain Swap: You can try this with quinoa or farro if you’re not feeling rice that day.
How to Make Vegan Red Rice with Sausage and Hot Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Prep and Sauté Your Sausage
First things first, slice your vegan sausage into bite-sized rounds or half-moons—whatever you prefer. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, then add the sausage pieces. Cook them until they start to brown and develop some crisp edges, about 5-7 minutes. This browning adds an amazing texture and flavor layer, so don’t rush it. Keep an eye on the pan so they don’t burn but get that nice caramelization.
Step 2: Stir in Tomato Paste and Hot Sauce
Once your sausage is beautifully browned, lower the heat a bit and mix in the tomato paste. Let that cook for a minute or two to deepen the flavor — you’ll see it darken slightly and get more aromatic. Then pour in your hot sauce. I like to start with 1/3 cup for that perfect spicy punch, but remember you can always adjust next time. Stir everything together until the sausage is nicely coated. This step gives your rice that signature “red” color and a vibrant, tangy kick.
Step 3: Combine with Rice and Heat Through
Now add your cooked rice to the skillet — I use about 6 cups and it’s usually leftover rice from the fridge. Stir thoroughly so every grain gets coated in that spicy, saucy goodness. Keep stirring over medium heat for 5-7 minutes until everything’s piping hot and flavors meld together nicely. Taste and add more hot sauce if you want extra heat. Avoid stirring too aggressively to keep the rice fluffy instead of mushy.
How to Serve Vegan Red Rice with Sausage and Hot Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
I usually top this dish with freshly chopped scallions or cilantro — their freshness really balances the heat. A squeeze of lime adds a bright zing that cuts through the richness, and if you want a little creaminess, a dollop of vegan sour cream or yogurt on the side is divine. These small details turn a simple dish into something you’d happily serve guests.
Side Dishes
This vegan red rice pairs amazingly well with roasted or steamed greens like kale or collards. I also love serving it alongside a crunchy slaw or pickled veggies for contrast. If you’re feeling indulgent, some warm tortilla chips or even a crisp green salad works beautifully to round out the meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties, I like to serve this rice in hollowed-out bell peppers or stuffed baked tomatoes – it looks stunning and helps with portion control. Another fun idea is layering it in a baking dish with vegan cheese on top and baking until bubbly for a spicy vegan “casserole.” Trust me, people will be asking for your recipe at the next potluck!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
I always cool leftovers completely before popping the rice into airtight containers and refrigerating for up to 4 days. The flavors actually deepen over time, which is a lovely bonus. Just make sure you separate out any garnishes before storing, so you can freshen them up before serving again.
Freezing
This recipe freezes beautifully. I portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags, label them, and freeze for up to 3 months. When I’m ready, I thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating. It’s a lifesaver on busy days because you get that homemade vibe with zero extra effort.
Reheating
Reheating is best done in a skillet on medium heat with a splash of water or broth to loosen things up and prevent dryness. Stir frequently until hot throughout. Microwaving works too if you’re in a hurry—just cover loosely to trap steam and reheat in short bursts to avoid overheating.
FAQs
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Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of tomato paste in this Vegan Red Rice with Sausage and Hot Sauce Recipe?
Fresh tomatoes don’t have the same concentrated flavor or thick consistency as tomato paste, so the dish might turn out less rich and more watery. If you want to use fresh tomatoes, I recommend cooking them down thoroughly until they reduce to a thick sauce before adding the rice. However, for the authentic depth and vibrant red color in this recipe, tomato paste is your best bet.
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What kind of vegan sausage works best in this recipe?
I prefer vegan sausages that are well-seasoned and have a firm texture, like those based on seitan, soy, or pea protein. Brands that offer smokey or Cajun-flavored sausages really elevate the dish’s overall vibe. Also, check the label to ensure they’re gluten-free if needed. You want something that won’t fall apart when cooked and can hold its own against the bold hot sauce.
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How spicy is this Vegan Red Rice with Sausage and Hot Sauce Recipe?
The spice level is totally customizable since you control the amount of hot sauce you add. I usually start with 1/3 cup of a medium-hot variety like Frank’s Red Hot for a pleasant kick, but you can reduce to 1/4 cup for milder heat or bump it up to 1/2 cup (or more!) for serious spice lovers. Just remember, you can always add more after tasting but can’t take it out once in.
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Can I make this Vegan Red Rice with Sausage and Hot Sauce Recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Just make sure to use vegan sausage labeled gluten-free and double-check that your hot sauce and other ingredients don’t contain hidden gluten. Most tomato pastes and rice are naturally gluten-free, so it’s mostly about the sausage brand selection. I often find good options at health food stores or specialty aisles.
Final Thoughts
This Vegan Red Rice with Sausage and Hot Sauce Recipe holds a special place in my heart because it’s one of those dishes you can count on to satisfy deep cravings without fuss. It’s hearty, spicy, and full of comfort, yet plant-based and surprisingly easy. Whether you’re feeding family, friends, or just treating yourself, I hope you give this recipe a try and make it your own. Cooking it with a little love and the perfect dose of heat really makes all the difference — enjoy every spicy, savory bite!
Print
Vegan Red Rice with Sausage and Hot Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4–6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegan
Description
A flavorful and hearty vegan red rice dish combining cooked red rice with savory vegan sausage, tomato paste, and a kick of hot sauce for a spicy, satisfying meal perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Rice
- 6 cups cooked rice (preferably red rice)
Other Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cups vegan sausage (equivalent to 1 package of 4 sausage links; use gluten-free sausage if needed)
- 1 (6-ounce) container tomato paste
- 1/3 cup hot sauce (e.g. Frank’s Red Hot; use 1/4 cup for less spicy or 1/2 cup for spicier rice)
Instructions
- Prepare the Vegan Sausage: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Slice or crumble the vegan sausage links into bite-size pieces and add them to the skillet. Cook until browned and heated through, about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Add Tomato Paste: Stir in the entire 6-ounce container of tomato paste, mixing thoroughly with the sausage to coat all pieces evenly. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to allow the tomato paste to warm and develop flavor.
- Incorporate Hot Sauce: Pour in 1/3 cup of hot sauce (adjust quantity for desired spice level) and stir well to combine with the tomato and sausage mixture. Allow the mixture to simmer for 2 minutes to meld flavors together.
- Combine with Cooked Rice: Add the 6 cups of cooked red rice to the skillet. Stir everything together until the rice is evenly coated with the sausage, tomato, and hot sauce mixture. Cook for another 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently, to heat the rice through and blend all flavors.
- Final Seasoning and Serving: Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Remove from heat and serve warm as a main dish or side.
Notes
- This recipe uses cooked red rice; if you prefer, you can substitute with brown rice or white rice.
- Adjust the hot sauce quantity to suit your heat preference.
- Ensure the vegan sausage is gluten-free if you have dietary restrictions.
- For added vegetables, consider stirring in diced bell peppers or onions when cooking the sausage.
- Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Keywords: vegan red rice, spicy vegan rice, vegan sausage recipe, tomato paste rice, easy vegan dinner
