Hearty and Savory Vegan Gumbo Recipe

Ingredients

  • 1 cup vegetable oil
  • 1 cup flour
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 1 red bell pepper, chopped
  • 1 green bell pepper, chopped
  • 2 stalks celery, chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 6 cups vegetable broth
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 1 package (14 oz) vegan sausage, sliced
  • 2 cups okra, sliced
  • 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup corn kernels (frozen or canned)
  • 1/2 cup chopped parsley
  • 4 green onions, chopped

Steps and instructions

  1. In a large pot over medium heat, combine the vegetable oil and flour to create a roux. Stir continuously for about 15-20 minutes until it reaches a dark brown color.
  2. Add the chopped onion, bell peppers, and celery to the pot. Cook until the vegetables are softened, around 5 minutes.
  3. Add the minced garlic, salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, thyme, and cayenne pepper. Stir well and cook for another 2 minutes.
  4. Add the diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, and bay leaves to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil.
  5. Once boiling, lower the heat to a simmer and add the vegan sausage, okra, kidney beans, and corn. Let the gumbo simmer for about 30 minutes.
  6. Remove the bay leaves. Stir in the chopped parsley and green onions just before serving.

Tools for making

  • Large pot - A large pot is needed to cook the gumbo and accommodate all the ingredients.
  • Wooden spoon - A wooden spoon is ideal for stirring the roux and preventing it from sticking.
  • Chopping board - A chopping board is necessary for chopping the onion, bell peppers, celery, and other vegetables.
  • Sharp knife - A sharp knife is essential for cutting the vegetables, sausage, and okra.
  • Measuring cups - Measuring cups are required to accurately measure the vegetable oil, flour, and other ingredients.
  • Measuring spoons - Measuring spoons are needed to measure out the salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, thyme, and cayenne pepper.
  • Can opener - A can opener is necessary to open the cans of diced tomatoes, kidney beans, and corn.
  • Spatula - A spatula can be handy for scraping the pot and ensuring all the ingredients are well mixed.
  • Ladle - A ladle is useful for serving the gumbo into bowls.
  • Soup bowls - Soup bowls are needed to serve the gumbo.
  • Garnish - Optional garnishes like fresh parsley or green onions can be used to top the gumbo.

Recipe variations

  • Use a different type of oil such as olive oil or coconut oil for a different flavor.
  • Experiment with alternative flours like whole wheat flour or gluten-free flour for a healthier or gluten-free option.
  • Replace the vegan sausage with tofu, tempeh, or seitan for a meat-free protein alternative.
  • Add different vegetables such as carrots, sweet potatoes, or mushrooms for added variety and flavor.
  • Try using different spices or herbs like oregano, basil, or smoked salt to customize the flavor profile.
  • For a spicier gumbo, increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add hot sauce to taste.
  • Add a splash of vegan Worcestershire sauce or liquid smoke for a smoky flavor.
  • Consider adding cooked rice or quinoa to make it a heartier meal.

Recipe overview

This Vegan Gumbo recipe is a hearty, flavorful dish that will satisfy both vegans and non-vegans alike. It's filled with vegetables like okra, bell peppers, and tomatoes, plus vegan sausage for added protein. The base of the gumbo, known as a roux, is made up of flour and vegetable oil, which gives the dish its characteristic richness and depth of flavor. In this easy-to-follow recipe, we'll guide you step-by-step through the process, from making the roux to adding in all the vegetables and seasonings. You'll be simmering your gumbo to perfection in no time. Expect a delicious, comforting meal that's perfect for a family dinner or a gathering of friends. Enjoy this plant-based delight with a side of rice for a complete meal.

Common questions

  1. Can I use a different type of oil? Yes, you can use other vegetable oils like canola oil or sunflower oil as a substitute for vegetable oil.
  2. Can I use a gluten-free flour for the roux? Yes, you can use a gluten-free flour blend as a substitute for regular flour to make the roux.
  3. What can I use instead of vegan sausage? If you prefer, you can use other plant-based protein alternatives like tempeh, tofu, or seitan instead of vegan sausage.
  4. Can I omit the okra? Yes, you can omit the okra if you're not a fan or if it's not readily available. The gumbo will still be delicious without it.
  5. How spicy is this gumbo? The spice level can be adjusted according to your preference. The cayenne pepper gives it a mild to medium level of spiciness. You can add more or less cayenne pepper to suit your taste.
  6. Can I make this gumbo ahead of time? Yes, you can make the gumbo ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. It actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Simply reheat it on the stove before serving.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Large pot - A large pot is needed to cook the gumbo and accommodate all the ingredients.
  • Stirring spoon - A sturdy stirring spoon is essential for continuously stirring the roux and for mixing the ingredients in the pot.
  • Chopping knife - A sharp chopping knife is required for chopping the onion, bell peppers, celery, and parsley.
  • Cutting board - A cutting board will provide a stable surface for chopping the vegetables and herbs.
  • Measuring cups - Measuring cups are necessary for accurately measuring the vegetable oil, flour, and other ingredients.
  • Measuring spoons - Measuring spoons are needed for precise measurements of salt, pepper, paprika, thyme, and cayenne pepper.
  • Can opener - A can opener is required to open the cans of diced tomatoes, kidney beans, and corn.
  • Soup ladle - A soup ladle makes it easy to serve the gumbo into bowls.
  • Bowls - Bowls are needed for serving the gumbo.
  • Serving spoons - Serving spoons are necessary for serving individual portions of gumbo onto plates.

Origin stories

Gumbo, a hearty stew teeming with spices and vegetables, is deeply rooted in the culinary traditions of Louisiana. The dish's roots extend all the way across the Atlantic, drawing inspiration from French, Spanish, African, and Native American cuisines, amongst others. Interestingly, the name ‘gumbo’ itself is derived from a West African word for okra, one of the essential ingredients. The fusion of diverse culinary practices over centuries in a melting pot that is Louisiana, gave birth to this comforting, rich, and flavorful dish. The thickening of the stew, which is a critical step in making gumbo, showcases the amalgamation of African and French cooking techniques. While okra, an African introduction, was initially used for thickening, the French method of making a roux (a mixture of flour and fat) was later adopted. This vegan version of gumbo maintains the traditional cooking methods and flavors, providing a delightful meal that pays homage to its multicultural roots.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.