Pumpkin Khoresh
Deep amber and fragrant with cinnamon and cardamom, this Persian pumpkin stew layers seared squash, sweet potato and root vegetables in a sweet-sour sauce of tomato, sour golden prunes and lemon — rich enough to feel celebratory, bright enough to keep you coming back for more. It is genuinely good for you too, packed with fibre and slow-release energy from the root vegetables and split peas. Serve it piled over saffron rice on a Friday night with a glass of chilled pomegranate juice alongside.
HealthScore 88
Scarlet Soft Tofu Stew
A fiercely crimson, bubbling Korean stew that delivers deep heat, funk and umami in every spoonful — silken tofu trembles in a scarlet broth alongside fermented kimchi and meaty mushroom strips. It looks dramatic straight from the stone pot to the table, and tastes like pure comfort with a slow, gochugaru burn. Ladle it over steamed rice on a cold evening and pour a cold Korean lager or barley tea alongside.
HealthScore 86
Party Pinto Beans (Frijoles de Olla)
A classic Tex-Mex pot of tender pinto beans simmered low and slow with Roma tomatoes, jalapeño, garlic, white onion and fresh coriander — no meat, no fuss, just pure plant-based comfort. Known in Mexico as *frijoles de olla* ("pot beans"), this crowd-pleasing dish is as at home on a weeknight table as it is at a party spread. Serve as a hearty side, spoon over rice, or ladle into warm tortillas. Love bold beans? Try our [Spicy Vegan Refried Pinto Beans](https://www.cuisinesavvy.com/recipe/spicy-vegan-refried-pinto-beans) next — they start exactly here.
HealthScore 91
Arroz Verde (Green Rice)
A vibrant Mexican green rice featuring poblano and jalapeño peppers blended with fresh herbs, creating a flavourful and aromatic side dish. This low-sodium version is naturally plant-based and pairs beautifully with tacos, enchiladas, or grilled vegetables.
HealthScore 76
Smoky Vegan Frijoles Charros
A hearty, plant-based take on traditional Mexican charro beans. Browned mushrooms replace bacon, delivering deep umami and smokiness alongside fire-roasted tomatoes, jalapeños, and warming spices. Serve this brothy, flavor-packed bean dish in bowls with fresh cilantro for an authentic and satisfying meal.
HealthScore 90
Smoky Black Bean and Sweet Potato Chilli
A hearty, one-pot vegan chilli that swaps every animal product for bold plant-based flavours. Chipotle in adobo and smoked paprika deliver a deep, smoky warmth, while cubed sweet potatoes finish in the oven so their edges caramelise beautifully. A squeeze of fresh lime juice added off the heat keeps every bowl bright and vibrant. Ready in under an hour and naturally gluten-free.
HealthScore 90
Lemony Vegan Chick’n and Rice Bake
A vegan spin on a comforting one-pot meal, featuring seasoned vegan chick’n thighs, fragrant rice, caramelized lemon slices, olives, and fresh herbs. All baked together for a flavorful Mediterranean-inspired dinner.
HealthScore 84
Paella
A plant-based version of the traditional Spanish Paella, made with saffron-infused rice, a variety of vegetables, and hearty plant-based proteins. This dish captures the essence of the original while being entirely vegan and packed with flavor.
HealthScore 80