Spicy Vegan Jambalaya with Okra and Tomatoes

I’m excited to try this new vegan jambalaya recipe. The traditional version has a lot of meat but this one uses vegetables instead, like corn, peppers, and beans.

It still sounds really hearty and flavorful. I like exploring different cultures through food, and Louisiana has such cool cooking. I will now share this recipe so you can also enjoy this meal.

Ingredients

Vegan jambalaya recipe

Here’s what you need to make our spicy vegan jambalaya with okra and tomatoes:

  • Olive oil: For cooking the vegetables.
  • Onion and garlic: Basic ingredients for flavor.
  • Bell peppers and celery: Essential for any jambalaya.
  • Fresh okra: Adds texture to the dish.
  • Spices: Cajun seasoning, cayenne pepper, smoked paprika, and thyme for the heat and flavor.
  • Tomatoes: Use diced tomatoes, ideally fire-roasted for a deeper flavor.
  • Vegan sausage: Pick a brand that you like; it should hold up well in cooking.
  • Rice: Long-grain rice is traditional and works best.
  • Vegetable broth: Used to cook the rice.
  • Red beans: Adds protein; canned for convenience.
  • Salt and pepper: For seasoning.

Instructions

Spicy vegan jambalaya

Follow these steps to make the jambalaya:

  1. Cook vegetables: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions, minced garlic, chopped bell peppers, and celery. Cook until soft.
  2. Add sausage and spices: Put in the sliced vegan sausage along with the Cajun seasoning, cayenne, paprika, and thyme. Cook until the sausage is slightly browned.
  3. Add rice and tomatoes: Put in the rice and diced tomatoes and stir so the rice gets coated with all the flavors.
  4. Cook: Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Reduce to a simmer, cover, and let it cook until the rice is tender, about 20-25 minutes.
  5. Add beans and okra: Mix in the red beans and sliced okra. Keep simmering until the okra is soft and the beans are warm.
  6. Season: Check the taste and add more salt and pepper if needed.
  7. Finish: Serve once everything is well-cooked and the flavors have blended.

What to Serve with Jambalaya?

Jambalaya with cornbread

Jambalaya is filling enough on its own but can be paired with a few simple sides:

  • Cornbread: A slice of plain cornbread goes well with the meal, and even cornmeal.
  • Greens: A side of steamed collard greens or a basic salad with a simple dressing works well.
  • Coleslaw: A plain coleslaw can add a fresh element to your meal.
  • Fried green tomatoes: These add a nice crunch to the meal. These options keep the meal interesting and add different textures and flavors without being overly complex.