How to Make Hearty Vegan Jambalaya with Rice

Simple Summary

This vegan jambalaya is a flavorful, plant-based twist on the classic Creole dish, packed with colorful vegetables and aromatic spices for a satisfying and nutritious meal.

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Servings: 6
• Difficulty: Intermediate

Ingredients

• 2 cups long-grain white rice
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, diced
• 3 celery stalks, chopped
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 2 cups sliced vegan sausage (or 1 can kidney beans, drained and rinsed)
• 1 cup frozen okra, sliced
• 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• 2 bay leaves
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 2 green onions, thinly sliced

Instructions

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion, celery, and bell peppers. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until vegetables begin to soften.

2. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

3. Stir in the diced tomatoes, vegan sausage (or kidney beans), okra, smoked paprika, thyme, oregano, cayenne pepper, bay leaves, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

4. Add the rice and vegetable broth to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.

5. Remove from heat and let stand, covered, for 5 minutes.

6. Remove bay leaves and fluff the rice with a fork.

7. Stir in chopped parsley and garnish with sliced green onions before serving.

Chef's Notes

• For a gluten-free version, ensure your vegan sausage is gluten-free or use kidney beans instead.
• To add more protein, consider adding cubed firm tofu or tempeh along with the vegetables.
• Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of water to prevent drying out.
• For a spicier jambalaya, add a diced jalapeño pepper or increase the amount of cayenne pepper.

Nutritional Info

Per serving (approximate):

• Calories: 350
• Protein: 10g
• Fiber: 6g
• Vitamin C: 80% DV
• Iron: 15% DV This dish is low in fat, high in fiber, and provides a good source of vitamins and minerals from the variety of vegetables.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a side of crusty bread or cornbread to soak up the flavorful sauce.
• Pair with a crisp green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette for a balanced meal.
• For a complete Creole-inspired feast, serve alongside vegan gumbo or red beans.
• Garnish with additional fresh herbs like cilantro or a squeeze of lemon for added brightness.
• This dish is perfect for potlucks, family dinners, or meal prep for the week ahead.