Vegan Jambalaya Recipe is a classic Creole dish known for its robust flavors and hearty ingredients. Traditionally, it’s made with meat, seafood, and rice. However, a vegan version can be just as satisfying and packed with flavor.
Vegan Jambalaya Recipe
This recipe substitutes the traditional meats with plant-based alternatives, ensuring that it remains a comforting and delicious dish.
Equipment
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Can opener
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 3 celery stalks, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup long-grain rice
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, with juices
- 2 1/2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup sliced okra (fresh or frozen)
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 2 bay leaves
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Vegetables:Dice the onion, green and red bell peppers, and celery.Mince the garlic.
- Sauté the Vegetables:In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat.Add the diced onion, bell peppers, and celery. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are softened.Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add the Rice and Seasonings:Stir in the rice, making sure it gets coated with the oil and mixed with the vegetables.Add the tomato paste, smoked paprika, thyme, oregano, basil, cayenne pepper, bay leaves, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
- Add Liquid and Simmer:Pour in the vegetable broth and diced tomatoes (including the juices). Stir to combine.Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and most of the liquid is absorbed.
- Add Beans and Okra:Once the rice is cooked, stir in the drained kidney beans and sliced okra.Continue to cook for another 5-10 minutes until the beans and okra are heated through and tender.
- Rest and Serve:Remove the pot from heat and let it rest, covered, for about 5 minutes.Remove the bay leaves before serving.Garnish with sliced green onions and chopped parsley.
- Enjoy:Serve hot, and enjoy your delicious vegan jambalaya!
Notes
- Adjust the cayenne pepper to your preferred level of spiciness.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated before serving.
More Vegetarian Recipes:
- Sweet Potato Peanut Curry Recipe
- American Pancakes Recipe
- Rice Cake Cress Faces Recipe
- Breakfast Casserole Recipe
Ingredients for Vegan Jambalaya Recipe
- Vegetables:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 3 celery stalks, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Plant-Based Proteins:
- 1 cup vegan sausage, sliced (optional, for a more authentic flavor)
- 1 cup chickpeas or black beans (drained and rinsed)
- Rice and Liquids:
- 1 1/2 cups long-grain rice (or brown rice for a healthier option)
- 3 cups vegetable broth
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- Spices and Seasonings:
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 bay leaves
- Optional Additions:
- 1/2 cup frozen peas
- 1/2 cup corn kernels
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Sliced green onions (for garnish)
Instructions
- Sauté the Vegetables:
- Heat the olive oil in a large, deep skillet or pot over medium heat.
- Add the diced onion, bell peppers, and celery. Cook until the vegetables are soft and the onion is translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add Plant-Based Proteins:
- If using vegan sausage, add the slices to the pot and cook until they are browned.
- Add the chickpeas or black beans and stir to combine.
- Incorporate the Rice and Liquids:
- Add the rice to the pot and stir to coat it with the oil and vegetables.
- Pour in the vegetable broth, diced tomatoes (with their juice), tomato sauce, and soy sauce. Stir well.
- Season the Jambalaya:
- Add the smoked paprika, dried thyme, dried oregano, cayenne pepper, salt, black pepper, and bay leaves. Mix everything together thoroughly.
- Simmer:
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 25-30 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and has absorbed most of the liquid.
- Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. If the mixture becomes too dry, add a little more vegetable broth or water.
- Add Optional Vegetables:
- If using peas and corn, stir them into the jambalaya about 5 minutes before the rice is fully cooked.
- Finishing Touches:
- Once the rice is tender and the jambalaya has thickened, remove the bay leaves.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
- Serve:
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and sliced green onions.
- Serve hot and enjoy your delicious, hearty vegan jambalaya!
Tips for Success
- Rice Choice: Long-grain white rice is traditional, but brown rice adds a nutty flavor and extra nutrients. If using brown rice, you may need to adjust the cooking time and liquid ratio.
- Spice Level: Adjust the cayenne pepper according to your spice preference. You can also add hot sauce for extra heat.
- Versatility: This recipe is very adaptable. Feel free to add or substitute other vegetables like okra, zucchini, or mushrooms.
- Meal Prep: Vegan jambalaya makes for great leftovers. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of vegetable broth if needed.
Enjoy this vegan twist on a classic Creole dish that’s sure to satisfy your cravings for something flavorful and comforting!