Oh, let me tell you about this vegan gumbo gluten free recipe that’s become a staple in my kitchen! It’s hearty, flavorful, and truly a celebration of Creole cooking. I’ve always been fascinated by gumbo—how it brings people together with its warm, comforting vibes. When I transitioned to a vegan diet, I didn’t want to miss out on this delicious dish. So, I whipped up my own version, and wow, it’s perfect! Packed with veggies and spices, this gumbo will warm your soul and fill your belly. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be hooked!
Ingredients List
Here’s everything you’ll need to whip up this delightful vegan gumbo gluten free. Make sure to prep your veggies ahead of time for a smoother cooking experience!
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 1 cup okra, sliced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups cooked brown rice (for serving)
Feel free to adjust the spices to your liking or toss in any other veggies you’ve got lying around! This recipe is pretty flexible and welcoming to creativity.
How to Prepare Vegan Gumbo Gluten Free
Alright, let’s dive into making this delicious vegan gumbo gluten free! I promise, it’s easier than you think, and the flavors are just out of this world!
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
First things first, heat that tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. You want it hot enough to make the veggies sizzle! Add in the diced onion, bell pepper, and celery. Cook them for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they’re softened and fragrant. You’ll know they’re ready when the onion turns translucent and everything smells heavenly!
Step 2: Add Garlic and Spices
Now, it’s time to stir in the minced garlic. Cook it for just 1 minute—don’t let it burn! Then, toss in the can of diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, sliced okra, and all those beautiful spices: smoked paprika, thyme, oregano, and the bay leaf. Give it a good stir to combine everything and let those flavors mingle!
Step 3: Simmer the Gumbo
Bring your pot to a boil—feel that excitement in the air? Once it’s bubbling, reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 30 minutes. This is where the magic happens! You’ll want to stir occasionally, and keep an eye on the gumbo; it should thicken up nicely, and those vibrant flavors will deepen. It’s going to smell amazing!
Step 4: Final Seasoning and Serving
When the time’s up, remove the bay leaf (trust me, you don’t want to eat that!). Taste your gumbo and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Serve it over a generous scoop of cooked brown rice in bowls, and get ready to enjoy a big bowl of comfort. I like to garnish mine with a sprinkle of fresh herbs if I have them on hand!
Nutritional Information
Now, let’s chat about the nutritional goodness packed into this vegan gumbo gluten free! Each bowl is a hearty meal that’s not just delicious but also nourishing. Here’s a quick breakdown of the estimated values for one serving:
- Calories: 250
- Fat: 7g
- Protein: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Sugar: 4g
- Fiber: 10g
- Sodium: 300mg
These estimates can vary based on the specific ingredients you use, but it gives you a great idea of the wholesome benefits you’re getting with every bite. Enjoy knowing you’re fueling your body with a comforting, plant-based meal!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Hearty & Satisfying: This vegan gumbo gluten free is the ultimate comfort food, filling you up without weighing you down.
- Full of Flavor: With a blend of spices and fresh ingredients, each bite is bursting with delicious Creole flavors that will have you coming back for more!
- Easy to Prepare: You don’t need to be a pro chef to make this dish. Just sauté, stir, and simmer—it’s as simple as that!
- Packed with Veggies: It’s loaded with nutritious vegetables, making it a great way to sneak in those healthy ingredients without even trying.
- Healthy Option: With wholesome ingredients and no animal products, this gumbo is a guilt-free choice that nourishes your body and soul.
Tips for Success
Alright, let’s make sure your vegan gumbo gluten free turns out absolutely amazing! Here are some of my favorite tips that’ll take your dish to the next level.
- Spice it up: If you like a bit of heat, feel free to add some cayenne pepper or a splash of hot sauce to your gumbo. Start with a little and adjust to your taste—there’s no such thing as too much flavor!
- Veggie swaps: Don’t hesitate to get creative with your veggies! Carrots, zucchini, or even some leafy greens like spinach can work wonders in this gumbo. Just make sure to cook them until they’re tender.
- Herbs and more herbs: Fresh herbs like parsley or green onions sprinkled on top just before serving can brighten up the dish and add a lovely layer of flavor. Trust me, it makes a difference!
- Batch cooking: This gumbo freezes beautifully! Make a double batch and store some in the freezer for those busy nights when you need a quick, wholesome meal. Just reheat gently on the stove!
- Let it rest: If you have the time, let your gumbo sit for a bit before serving. The flavors deepen and meld together, making each spoonful even more delicious. Yum!
With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to creating a gumbo that’s not just good, but utterly fantastic. Enjoy the process and don’t be afraid to make it your own!
Variations
Let’s get creative with this vegan gumbo gluten free! There are so many ways to switch things up and make this dish your own. Here are some fun ideas to keep it interesting:
- Different Veggies: Swap out the okra for some diced sweet potatoes or butternut squash for a touch of sweetness. You can also add in kale or spinach for a boost of greens!
- Protein Boost: If you want to add more protein, consider tossing in some cooked lentils or chickpeas. They’ll soak up all those delicious flavors while adding heartiness to your gumbo.
- Spice It Up: Experiment with different spices like Cajun seasoning or even a pinch of curry powder for a unique twist. Each spice adds its own character, so don’t be shy!
- Serving Suggestions: Instead of serving over brown rice, try quinoa or even a bed of cauliflower rice for a lighter option. You can also serve this gumbo with a side of crusty gluten-free bread for dipping!
- Herb Infusion: Fresh herbs like cilantro or basil can really elevate the dish. Stir in some chopped herbs just before serving for a fresh, vibrant flavor that sings!
With these variations, you can tailor this gumbo to suit your taste and keep your meals exciting. The possibilities are endless, so have fun experimenting!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Now, let’s talk about how to store those delicious leftovers of your vegan gumbo gluten free! First off, make sure it’s completely cooled down before you tuck it away in the fridge. I like to transfer it into an airtight container to keep it fresh and tasty. If stored properly, your gumbo will stay good in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just be sure to label it if you’re anything like me and forget what you made!
If you want to keep it longer, this gumbo freezes beautifully! Just portion it out into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving a little room for expansion, and it’ll stay fresh for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, transfer it to the fridge to thaw overnight for the best results.
When it’s time to reheat, you’ve got options! You can warm it up on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until it’s heated through. If you’re in a hurry, a microwave works too—just pop it in a microwave-safe bowl, cover it with a damp paper towel, and heat in short bursts, stirring in between until it’s nice and hot. Just don’t forget to taste and adjust the seasoning if needed after reheating. Enjoy that cozy goodness all over again!
FAQ Section
Can I make this gumbo in advance?
Absolutely! This vegan gumbo gluten free actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Just make sure to store it in the fridge in an airtight container. It’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days, so you can meal prep and enjoy it later!
Is gumbo traditionally gluten-free?
Yes, traditional gumbo can be gluten-free, especially if you skip the roux or use gluten-free flour to make it. My version is naturally gluten-free since I use wholesome ingredients without any flour, making it a fantastic option for those avoiding gluten!
What can I substitute for okra?
If okra isn’t your thing, no worries! You can swap it out for diced zucchini, green beans, or even bell peppers. Just adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure everything is tender. The gumbo will still be delicious and packed with flavor!
How spicy is this gumbo?
This recipe is mild, but you can easily adjust the heat level. If you like it spicy, add some cayenne pepper or hot sauce while it simmers. Start with a little, taste, and add more if you want that extra kick!
Can I make this gumbo in a slow cooker?
Yes! You can definitely adapt this vegan gumbo gluten free for a slow cooker. Just sauté the vegetables first, then add everything to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for about 3-4 hours. It’ll be just as tasty!
Vegan Gumbo Gluten Free: 5 Hearty Comforts to Savor
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegan
Description
A hearty and flavorful vegan gumbo that is gluten-free.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 1 cup okra, sliced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups cooked brown rice
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add onion, bell pepper, and celery. Cook until softened.
- Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
- Stir in diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, okra, and spices.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes.
- Remove bay leaf and season with salt and pepper.
- Serve over cooked brown rice.
Notes
- Adjust spices to your taste.
- Can add other vegetables like carrots or zucchini.
- Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Creole
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 10g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: vegan gumbo, gluten free gumbo