How do I create a vegetarian version of chicken gumbo?

Discover a vegetarian twist on the classic Chicken Gumbo! Our recipe substitutes chicken for plant-based proteins, giving you a flavorful and satisfying meat-free option.

You'll need

Items needed to answer the question, How do I create a vegetarian version of Chicken Gumbo. Items include: Olive oil All-purpose flour Onion Green bell pepper Celery stalks Vegetarian proteins Paprika Thyme Garlic powder Cayenne pepper Vegetable broth Canned diced tomatoes Salt Pepper Fresh parsley Cooked rice or crusty bread

Olive oil ¼ cup
All-purpose flour ½ cup
Onion 1, diced
Green bell pepper 1, diced
Celery stalks 2, diced
Vegetarian proteins 2 cups
Paprika 1 tablespoon
Thyme 1 teaspoon
Garlic powder ½ teaspoon
Cayenne pepper pinch
Vegetable broth 4 cups
Canned diced tomatoes 1 can (14 oz)
Salt to taste
Pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish
Cooked rice or crusty bread for serving

Take note
Please note that cooking times may vary depending on your stove and the brand of ingredients used. Also, be cautious when working with hot liquids to avoid any accidental spills or burns.

1

Make the Roux

In a large, heavy-bottomed pot, heat ¼ cup of olive oil over medium heat. Gradually add in ½ cup of all-purpose flour, stirring constantly to avoid any lumps. Keep cooking the mixture, stirring frequently, until it turns a rich golden brown color. This process will take about 15-20 minutes.

2

Saute the Aromatics

Add 1 diced onion, 1 diced green bell pepper, and 2 stalks of celery (also diced) to the pot with the roux. Cook the vegetables for about 5 minutes, until they soften and become fragrant. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

3

Add the Vegetarian Proteins

Now it's time to add the star of the show – vegetarian proteins! Feel free to use 2 cups of faux chicken strips, tofu cubes, or even seitan chunks. Stir them into the pot and let them brown for a couple of minutes.

4

Spice it Up

To give your gumbo its signature flavor, add 1 tablespoon of paprika, 1 teaspoon of thyme, ½ teaspoon of garlic powder, and a pinch of cayenne pepper. Stir well to evenly distribute the spices and let them bloom for a minute or so.

5

Pour in the Liquid

Pour 4 cups of vegetable broth and 1 can (14 oz) of diced tomatoes (with their juices) into the pot. Give everything a good stir, scraping the bottom to incorporate any browned bits. Bring the mixture to a simmer.

6

Simmer and Season

Reduce the heat to low and let the gumbo simmer for about 30 minutes. This will allow the flavors to meld together and the vegetarian proteins to soak up all the deliciousness. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

7

Serve and Enjoy

Once the gumbo has thickened slightly, it's time to serve up this hearty dish. Ladle it into bowls, garnish with freshly chopped parsley, and serve with cooked rice or crusty bread. Get ready to dig into a bowlful of vegetarian gumbo goodness!