Are you tired of sacrificing flavor for convenience on busy weeknights? Look no further! As a busy individual, finding meals that are both delicious and easy to prepare can be a daunting task. That’s why we’ve curated 20 mouth-watering vegan crockpot recipes that will make your life easier and your taste buds happier.
From classic comfort foods like chili and stew to exotic flavors like Thai peanut tofu and Indian-inspired lentil dal, these slow cooker meals are perfect for a quick and easy dinner that can be enjoyed by the whole family. And the best part? They’re all vegan-friendly!
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through the world of plant-based crockpot cooking, sharing our favorite recipes that are not only delicious but also easy to make and packed with nutrients. Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or just looking for some inspiration in the kitchen, these 20 easy vegan crockpot recipes will become your new go-to’s.
Slow Cooker Vegan Chili
Warm Up with a Hearty Slow Cooker Vegan Chili Recipe
Perfect for a chilly evening or a weeknight dinner, this slow cooker vegan chili is a comforting and flavorful option that’s easy to prepare. With its rich texture and bold spices, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can diced tomatoes
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, chopped
– 1 tablespoon chili powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 can crushed tomatoes (14.5 oz)
– 1 cup vegetable broth
Instructions:
1. Add all ingredients to a slow cooker.
2. Stir well to combine.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro and crusty bread, if desired. Enjoy!
Creamy Coconut Lentil Curry
This recipe combines the comforting warmth of lentils with the rich flavor of coconut and spices, creating a delicious and nutritious curry perfect for any occasion. With its creamy texture and aromatic flavors, this dish is sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup red or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 medium ginger, grated
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon turmeric
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté onions, garlic, and ginger in a little oil until softened.
2. Add lentils, curry powder, cumin, turmeric, salt, and pepper. Cook 1 minute.
3. Pour in coconut milk and water (if needed) to cover the mixture by about an inch.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until lentils are tender.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as desired.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Vegan Crockpot Minestrone Soup
This hearty and comforting vegan minestrone soup is a perfect meal for any time of the year. With a variety of vegetables, beans, and pasta, this crockpot recipe is easy to prepare and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (such as carrots, zucchini, bell peppers)
– 1 cup small pasta shapes (such as elbow macaroni or ditalini)
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Add all ingredients to the crockpot.
2. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or basil if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Easy Vegan Black Bean Stew
This hearty stew is a perfect blend of comforting flavors, with the richness of black beans and the warmth of spices. It’s a great option for a quick and satisfying meal that’s also packed with nutrients.
Ingredients:
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can diced tomatoes
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: jalapenos or hot sauce for added heat
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic until softened.
2. Add the red bell pepper and cook for an additional minute.
3. Stir in the cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 30 seconds.
4. Add the black beans, diced tomatoes, and vegetable broth. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat and let stew cook for 20-25 minutes or until heated through.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Slow Cooker Lentil Bolognese
Transform your favorite Italian dish into a hearty, plant-based meal with this slow cooker lentil bolognese recipe. With minimal prep and hands-off cooking, you’ll have a flavorful and nutritious meal ready for the family.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 carrot, finely chopped
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: ground beef or pork for added protein
Instructions:
1. In the slow cooker, combine lentils, olive oil, onion, garlic, and carrot.
2. Add crushed tomatoes, vegetable broth, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
3. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
4. Serve over pasta, with bread, or as a topping for vegetables.
Cooking Time: 4-10 hours
Vegan Crockpot Butternut Squash Soup
Warm up with this comforting and creamy vegan soup that’s perfect for chilly days. This recipe is a game-changer, as it’s incredibly easy to make and packed with nutritious ingredients.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium butternut squash (about 2 lbs)
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 can coconut milk (full-fat)
– Fresh cilantro or scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Peel and chop the butternut squash into large chunks.
2. Add the squash, onion, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper to a 6-quart crockpot.
3. Pour in the vegetable broth and stir gently.
4. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-5 hours.
5. Stir in the coconut milk until smooth.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro or scallions (if desired).
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low) or 4-5 hours (high)
Spicy Thai Peanut Tofu Stew
A flavorful and spicy stew that combines the creaminess of peanut sauce with the warmth of Thai chilies, all wrapped up in a comforting bowl. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying meal to share with friends.
Ingredients:
– 1 block firm tofu, drained and cubed
– 2 tablespoons peanut oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 2 tablespoons Thai peanut sauce
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1-2 Thai chilies, sliced (depending on desired heat level)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add tofu and cook until golden brown, about 5 minutes.
2. Add onion, garlic, and bell pepper; cook until vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in coconut milk, peanut sauce, soy sauce, ginger, cumin, and chilies. Bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and let stew cook for 10-15 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Slow Cooker Vegan Potatoes and Chickpeas
Get ready for a comforting, plant-based meal that’s perfect for any time of the year! This slow cooker recipe is easy to prepare and packed with nutritious potatoes, chickpeas, and aromatic spices.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Add the cubed potatoes, chickpeas, onion, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to a slow cooker.
2. Drizzle with olive oil and stir to combine.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Easy Crockpot Vegan Ratatouille
Savor the flavors of France with this effortless vegan twist on the classic ratatouille recipe, perfectly cooked to perfection in your crockpot. This hearty and aromatic dish is perfect for a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 2 medium zucchinis, sliced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, sliced bell peppers, and zucchinis to the crockpot.
2. Pour in the diced tomatoes, oregano, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir gently to combine.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or thyme if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Enjoy your delicious and easy vegan ratatouille!
Vegan Slow Cooker Mushroom Stroganoff
Savor the rich flavors of this comforting vegan twist on a classic dish, perfect for a cozy night in. This slow cooker recipe combines tender mushrooms with a creamy sauce, all without compromising on taste or texture.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb mushrooms (button or cremini), sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 cup vegan sour cream (such as soy or coconut-based)
– 1/2 cup vegetable broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a slow cooker, combine mushrooms, olive oil, onion, garlic, paprika, and thyme.
2. Cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours.
3. Stir in vegan sour cream, vegetable broth, tomato paste, and Dijon mustard.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 3-6 hours
Lazy Vegan Crockpot Mac and Cheese
This creamy, comforting dish is perfect for a stress-free lunch or dinner that’s ready when you need it. With just a few ingredients and no fuss, you can have a delicious macaroni and cheese dish without heating up your kitchen.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound macaroni
– 2 cups vegan cheddar cheese shreds
– 1 cup non-dairy milk (such as soy or almond)
– 1/4 cup vegan butter or margarine
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In the crockpot, combine the cooked macaroni, vegan cheddar cheese shreds, non-dairy milk, vegan butter or margarine, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Stir until the cheese is well coated with the sauce.
4. Cook on low for 2-3 hours or high for 1-2 hours, stirring occasionally, until the macaroni and cheese are heated through and creamy.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours (low) or 1-2 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Vegan Split Pea Soup
Cozy up with this comforting slow cooker recipe that’s perfect for a chilly day. This vegan split pea soup is a flavorful and nutritious twist on the classic, made with tender peas, aromatic spices, and a hint of lemon.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green split peas
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, chopped
– 1 celery stalk, chopped
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice (optional)
Instructions:
1. Add all ingredients to a slow cooker.
2. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
3. Season with salt, pepper, and additional lemon juice if desired.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro (optional).
Cooking Time: 4-10 hours
Crockpot Vegan BBQ Jackfruit Sandwiches
Satisfy your cravings with these tender and flavorful Crockpot Vegan BBQ Jackfruit Sandwiches. This easy recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 (14 oz) can jackfruit in brine, drained and chopped
– 1/4 cup vegan BBQ sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 hamburger buns
– Coleslaw or pickles for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. In the Crockpot, combine jackfruit, BBQ sauce, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Cook on Low for 8 hours or High for 4 hours.
3. Assemble sandwiches by placing the jackfruit mixture onto hamburger buns.
4. Serve with coleslaw or pickles, if desired.
Cooking Time: 4-8 hours
Easy Vegan Crockpot Lentil Dal
Warm up with this comforting, plant-based take on traditional Indian dal. This easy vegan crockpot lentil dal recipe is a perfect blend of flavors and textures that’s ready in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: spinach or kale leaves for added nutrition
Instructions:
1. Add lentils, water, onion, garlic, cumin, curry powder, and turmeric to a crockpot.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro (optional).
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low), 3-4 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Vegan Chickpea Tikka Masala
Slow Cooker Vegan Chickpea Tikka Masala: A flavorful and aromatic Indian-inspired dish that’s perfect for a cozy night in. This recipe is a creative twist on the classic chicken tikka masala, swapping out poultry for protein-rich chickpeas.
Ingredients:
– 1 can chickpeas (14 oz)
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon curry powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1 can coconut milk (14 oz)
– 1 cup vegetable broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon garam masala
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a slow cooker, combine chickpeas, onion, garlic, curry powder, cumin, cinnamon, cardamom, and salt.
2. Stir in coconut milk, vegetable broth, tomato paste, and garam masala.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve over basmati rice or with naan bread.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Vegan Crockpot Sweet Potato Curry
This comforting curry recipe is a perfect blend of warm spices and sweet potatoes, slow-cooked to perfection in your crockpot. It’s a great option for a cozy weeknight dinner or a nutritious meal prep.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon curry powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup vegetable broth
– 1/4 cup coconut milk
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Add the sweet potatoes, onion, garlic, curry powder, cumin, turmeric, paprika, salt, and pepper to your crockpot.
2. Pour in the diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, and coconut milk.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Simple Slow Cooker Vegan Gumbo
This hearty, slow-cooked gumbo is a comforting twist on the classic Southern dish, made entirely plant-based and perfect for a chilly day. With a rich blend of vegetables, spices, and aromatic seasonings, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your household.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups mixed bell peppers (any color), chopped
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1 bay leaf
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup cooked brown rice or other whole grain
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Transfer the mixture to the slow cooker with the remaining ingredients. Stir well.
3. Cook on Low for 6-8 hours or High for 3-4 hours.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve over cooked brown rice.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (Low) or 3-4 hours (High)
Vegan Crockpot Three-Bean Stew
This hearty stew is a perfect blend of flavors and textures, featuring three types of beans, tender vegetables, and aromatic spices. With minimal effort, you’ll have a delicious and nutritious meal ready to enjoy.
Ingredients:
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can pinto beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, chopped
– 1 can diced tomatoes
– 1 cup vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Add all ingredients to a crockpot.
2. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Vegan Quinoa Chili
Warm up with a bowl of this comforting, plant-based chili that’s perfect for a chilly evening. This recipe combines the nutty flavor of quinoa with tender beans and vegetables in a rich, tomato-based broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, chopped
– 1 can (4 oz) crushed black beans
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp chili powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse quinoa and add it to the slow cooker with water or broth.
2. Add diced tomatoes, red kidney beans, onion, garlic, red bell pepper, crushed black beans, cumin, and chili powder.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro, scallions, or a dollop of vegan sour cream (optional).
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Easy Crockpot Vegan Coconut Rice Pudding
This creamy and comforting dessert is a perfect way to end a meal. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a deliciously vegan coconut rice pudding that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup of uncooked white rice
– 3 cups of non-dairy milk (such as soy or almond milk)
– 1/4 cup of unsweetened shredded coconut
– 2 tablespoons of maple syrup
– 1/4 teaspoon of salt
– 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice and add it to a 6-quart crockpot.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the non-dairy milk, unsweetened shredded coconut, maple syrup, salt, and vanilla extract.
3. Pour the wet ingredients over the dry ingredients in the crockpot.
4. Cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours.
5. Stir the pudding well and serve warm or chilled.
Cooking Time: 2-5 hours
Summary
Looking for delicious and easy vegan recipes to spice up your busy weeknights? Look no further! This article presents 20 mouth-watering crockpot recipes that are sure to satisfy your cravings. From hearty stews and soups to creamy curries and comforting pasta dishes, these vegan-friendly meals require minimal effort and can be enjoyed by everyone. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a culinary newbie, this collection of slow-cooked masterpieces is guaranteed to become a staple in your kitchen. So go ahead, get cooking, and indulge in the flavors of a plant-based paradise!
