Vegan Mardi Gras Jambalaya

Celebrate the vibrant flavors of Mardi Gras with this delicious and hearty plant-based jambalaya. Packed with an array of colorful vegetables, aromatic spices, and protein-rich plant-based ingredients, this vegan twist on the classic Louisiana dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Gather your friends and family, put on some festive music, and let the good times roll with this flavorful Vegan Mardi Gras Jambalaya!

Ingredients:

• 2 cups of long-grain brown rice
• 1 large onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 1 cup okra, sliced
• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
• 1 cup vegetable broth
• 1 cup tomato sauce
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon thyme
• 1 teaspoon oregano
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 cup vegan sausage, sliced (choose your favorite brand)
• 1 cup vegan chicken strips or cubes
• 1 bay leaf
• Chopped green onions for garnish
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

• Prepare the Rice:
• Cook the brown rice according to the package instructions. Set aside when done.
• Saute the Aromatics:
• In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.
• Add diced onion, garlic, and celery. Saute until the onions are translucent.
• Add the Vegetables:
• Stir in the diced bell peppers and okra. Cook for another 3-5 minutes until the vegetables start to soften.
• Spice it Up:
• Add smoked paprika, thyme, oregano, cayenne pepper, paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to coat the vegetables in the spices.
• Tomato Base:
• Pour in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and tomato paste. Stir to combine.
• Bring in the Protein:
• Add vegan sausage and chicken strips/cubes. Cook until the proteins are lightly browned.
• Combine and Simmer:
• Pour in the vegetable broth and add the bay leaf. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
• Beans and Corn:
• Stir in the kidney beans and corn kernels. Let the jambalaya simmer for an additional 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
• Adjust Seasoning:
• Taste and adjust the seasoning according to your preference. If you like it spicier, add more cayenne pepper.
• Serve:
• Remove the bay leaf and discard.
• Serve the Vegan Mardi Gras Jambalaya over a bed of cooked brown rice.
• Garnish with chopped green onions and fresh parsley.

Enjoy the festive and flavorful plant-based Mardi Gras celebration with this delicious vegan jambalaya! This dish is a perfect blend of textures and tastes, bringing the spirit of New Orleans to your table in a cruelty-free and delicious way. Laissez les bon temps rouler!