Vegan Hispanic Heritage Month Recipes to Celebrate Latin Culture

by Annie Kimmelman on September 16, 2025

Every year from September 15 to October 15, the United States celebrates Hispanic Heritage Month, honoring the histories, cultures, and contributions of people from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central and South America. And like any good celebration, food plays a huge role.

Traditional recipes bring families together around the table, sharing stories and flavors that carry generations of meaning. For me, cooking is one of the most powerful ways to connect with culture. Even while eating plant-based, I’ve found so much joy in veganizing classic Latin dishes so they still taste comforting, authentic, and celebratory.

So today I’m sharing some of my favorite Vegan Hispanic Heritage Month recipes that are perfect for honoring this month with flavor. Since my wife is Peruvian, I do have a slight bias towards Peruvian recipes!

Why Food Matters for Hispanic Heritage Month

Food is often the center of cultural traditions. A pot of black beans simmering on the stove, a plate of street corn with lime and chile, or a creamy bowl of Peruvian locro de zapallo isn’t just a meal, it’s a story of heritage.

During Hispanic Heritage Month, many people cook dishes that reflect where they come from. It’s a time to honor roots and celebrate diversity, and recipes help keep those traditions alive. By veganizing these foods, we can make them inclusive for everyone at the table without losing the richness of flavor.

How to Create Your Own Vegan Heritage Month Dishes

Veganizing Latin recipes doesn’t mean sacrificing authenticity—it just means getting creative with ingredients:

Dairy swaps: Use cashews, sunflower seeds, silken tofu, or corn starch for creamy sauces and stews.
Meat alternatives: Jackfruit, lentils, mushrooms, tempeh, or shredded tofu mimic traditional textures.
Flavor anchors: Always keep the spices, herbs, and sauces true to the recipe—ají amarillo, cumin, lime, cilantro, achiote, and smoked paprika are key.

The goal isn’t to erase tradition, but to honor it in a way that’s accessible for everyone.