WRITTEN BY AALIYAH ALEXANDER

It’s always a good time to indulge in delicious plant-based Latin-inspired cuisine, especially when it’s National Hispanic Heritage Month (which officially starts September 15 and extends to October 15). There’s so much to explore with Latin cuisine thanks to the diversity of Latin countries and regions such as Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central and South America. 

So, whether you’re celebrating this month as part of your heritage or simply wanting to honor the significant contributions of the Hispanic community to American culture, this plant-based, vegan-friendly recipe round-up is for you! You’ll find everything from classic tacos and mouth-watering enchiladas to sweet, comforting desserts. So without further ado, let’s get cooking. ¡Vámanos! 

1. Carne en su Jugo

This traditional Mexican dish is a stew-like guisado (i.e. cuisines that are slowly stewed or braised in flavorful broths or sauces until tender) and this plant-based version has Venganza vegan carne as the main act, followed by tomatillos, Roma tomato, potatoes, garlic, onion jalapeños, and cilantro. This simple, savory dish pairs well with flour tortillas or pinto beans. 

Recipe: @thevegantaqueria

Vegan Puerto Rican Rice (Arroz Con Gandules)

This Arroz con Gandules has all the right ingredients to transport you to the heart of Puerto Rico. While this national dish isn’t traditionally vegan, this recipe delivers the best plant-based version, featuring sofrito, roasted red peppers, green pigeon peas, and other flavorful ingredients.

Recipe: @makeitdairyfree

Vegan Empanadas

Empanadas can be baked or fried and are filled with a mixture of ingredients that vary depending on the recipe. For this plant-based recipe, the empanadas include vegan meatless crumble, onions, bell peppers, green olives, flour, green olives, vegan butter, vegan sugar, and a blend of spices.  

Recipe: @makeitdairyfree

Vegan tacos

This vegan taco recipe is quick and easy with a cooktime of just 34 minutes. It has all the fixings (plus a homemade creamy cilantro sauce) to help channel your favorite street taco from the comfort of your home. 

Recipe: @hotforfood

Hoja Santa Bean Tacos

Another version of a beloved Mexican dish is Hoja Santa Bean Tacos. To make this dish, all you is a medium/large pan, blender or food processor, 30 minutes, and a short list of ingredients: refried beans, Hoja santa, and corn tortillas.

Recipe: @alexafuelednaturally

Huevos en salsa verde

Trust, your stomach will be rumbling when you make these Huevos en Salsa Verde. Using JUSTEgg (a plant-based egg alternative), onion, flour tortillas, salsa, and a few seasonings, you can whip up this delicious dish for breakfast or brunch or — or, if you’re anything like me, enjoy it shamelessly for dinner!” 

Recipe: @netocraves

Vegan Paella

Get a taste of Spain with this plant-based take on paella. It features plant-based chorizo and combines rice and other veggies to create a flavorful dish that can be served in under 45 minutes. Oh, and did I mention it only requires one pan?

Recipe: @minimalistbaker

Vegan Chorizo Mexican Stuffed Peppers

If you’re looking for a quick, easy, yet healthy and delicious meal, these Vegan Chorizo Mexican Stuffed Peppers are just what you need. The recipe calls for peppers, red onions, garlic, black beans, corn, fire-roasted tomatoes, vegan chorizo, lime juice, a mix of seasonings, and dairy-free garlic butter rice with kale.

Recipe: @makeitdairyfree

Quesadillas de Flor de Calabaza

Do you usually go for a quesadilla when you’re at a Mexican restaurant? If so, you won’t be disappointed with this plant-based, homemade quesadilla recipe. 

Recipe: @dorastable

Vegan Roasted Garlic-Potato Enchiladas

Your taste buds will thank you after trying this slightly sweet and spicy plant-based enchilada recipe. This dish can be prepared and served in about an hour and features a chile base blended with canned tomatoes and vegetable broth to make a delicious enchilada sauce. 

Recipe: @epicurious

Don’t Forget the Dessert!

Pumpkin Spice Horchata

What better way to bask in fall vibes and honor Hispanic Heritage Month than with this pumpkin spice horchata? Inspired by traditional Mexican horchata, this version is infused with delicious spices like ginger, cinnamon, and nutmeg.

Recipe: @alexafuelednaturally

Mexican Buñuelos

These light and crispy Mexican Buñuelos are the perfect treat after a hearty meal. This plant-based version is made with all-purpose flour, orange juice, orange zest, and avocado oil and is coated with cinnamon and sugar. 

Recipe: @dorastable

Arroz Con Leche de Chocolate

Cozy up with this Arroz con Leche de Chocolate anytime you’re craving a rich, chocolatey dessert. Never heard of an Arroz con Leche de Chocolate? Think of it as a chocolate rice pudding you didn’t know you needed until now. 

Recipe: @alexafuelednaturally

Mexican Chocolate Dessert Tamales

For this recipe, all you need is 20 minutes and a few ingredients. Serve this dessert at your next get-together or steam a batch just for you (no judgment here!). 

Recipe: @theeddiegarza