Dive into the vibrant world of Cajun cuisine with our Classic Cajun Vegan Jambalaya! Bursting with bold flavors and a medley of colorful vegetables, this hearty dish is not only a feast for the eyes but also a nourishing delight for the soul. Whether you're a seasoned vegan or just looking to add more plant-based meals to your repertoire, this jambalaya is sure to impress. With simple ingredients and an easy cooking process, you'll be savoring this delicious dish in just one hour. Get ready to spice up your dinner table and discover why this recipe is a must-try!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs
Cuisine: Cajun
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup long-grain rice
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 2 stalks celery, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- 1 cup okra, sliced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients on a clean workspace. This will make the cooking process more efficient.
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium heat. If you prefer an oil-free option, you can use vegetable broth instead.
- Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and celery to the pot. Sauté the vegetables for about 5-7 minutes, or until they are soft and the onion is translucent.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until fragrant, being careful not to let it burn.
- Next, add the can of diced tomatoes (with their juices) to the pot. Stir to combine with the sautéed vegetables.
- Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
- Once boiling, add the long-grain rice and Cajun seasoning. Stir well to ensure the rice is evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
- Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot with a lid, and let it simmer for about 20 minutes. Do not lift the lid during this time, as it will release steam.
- After 20 minutes, check the rice for doneness. If the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid, add the sliced okra. Stir gently to incorporate.
- Season the jambalaya with salt and pepper to taste. If you prefer a spicier dish, feel free to add more Cajun seasoning or a dash of hot sauce.
- Cover the pot again and let it cook for an additional 5-10 minutes, allowing the okra to soften and the flavors to meld.
- Once done, remove the pot from heat and let it sit, covered, for about 5 minutes. This will help the jambalaya set.
- Fluff the jambalaya with a fork before serving. You can garnish with fresh parsley or green onions if desired.
- Serve hot and enjoy your delicious Classic Cajun Vegan Jambalaya!
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To streamline your cooking process, chop all your vegetables and measure out your ingredients before you start. This will save you time and make cooking more enjoyable.
- Customize Your Spice Level: If you love heat, don’t hesitate to add more Cajun seasoning or a splash of hot sauce to kick up the flavor. You can also include diced jalapeños for an extra punch!
- Use Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor, opt for fresh vegetables and herbs. Fresh parsley or green onions make a lovely garnish that adds both color and freshness to your dish.
- Don’t Skip the Okra: Okra not only adds a unique texture but also helps thicken the jambalaya. If you can’t find fresh okra, frozen okra works just as well.
- Let It Rest: After cooking, let the jambalaya sit covered for about 5 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, ensuring each bite is packed with deliciousness.
- Serve with Style: For an extra touch, serve your jambalaya with a side of crusty bread or over a bed of greens for a complete meal that’s sure to impress your guests.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 220kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 5g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
