A hearty, flavorful dish that can be enjoyed by both vegetarians and non-vegetarians alike. This homemade vegetarian gumbo is a delectable mix of vegetables and spices, cooked to perfection. It's an ideal comfort food that's also healthy and satisfying.
Some ingredients like cremini mushrooms, vegan Worcestershire sauce, and liquid smoke may not be commonly found in your pantry. Cremini mushrooms are a variety of mushroom that are darker, firmer, and more flavorful than their white button counterparts. Vegan Worcestershire sauce is a plant-based version of the traditional Worcestershire sauce, available in most supermarkets or online. Liquid smoke is a water-soluble yellow to red liquid used for flavoring. It can be found in the condiment aisle of many supermarkets.
Ingredients for Homemade Vegetarian Gumbo
Olive oil: A healthy fat used for sautéing and adding richness.
Yellow onion: Adds sweetness and depth of flavor.
Cremini mushroom: Provides a meaty texture and robust flavor.
Garlic: Infuses the dish with a pungent, spicy flavor.
Soy sauce: Gives a salty and umami flavor.
Dried thyme: Adds earthy and slightly minty notes.
Smoked paprika: Gives a smoky, sweet, and rich flavor.
Dried oregano: Delivers a robust, aromatic flavor.
Cayenne pepper: Adds heat to the dish.
Vegan Worcestershire sauce: Gives a tangy, slightly sweet flavor.
Liquid smoke: Imparts a smoky flavor.
Cannellini bean: Provides creaminess and protein.
Bread crumbs: Binds the ingredients together.
Vital wheat gluten: Adds elasticity and binds the ingredients together.
Vegetable broth: Adds depth and richness to the dish.
Celery: Provides a crunchy texture and a subtle, savory flavor.
Okra: Gives a unique texture and a mildly sweet flavor.
Green bell pepper: Adds a crunchy texture and a mild, sweet flavor.
Tomato: Offers a fresh, tangy flavor and acidity.
Red kidney bean: Delivers a hearty texture and protein.
Brown rice: Serves as a filling, wholesome base.
Fresh parsley: Adds a fresh, vibrant touch.
One reader, Brett Rao says:
This homemade vegetarian gumbo recipe is a game-changer! The flavors are rich and satisfying, and the meatballs add a delightful texture. It's a hearty and comforting dish that's perfect for a cozy night in. I love how versatile and flavorful it is - a definite must-try for all food enthusiasts!
Key Techniques for Making Homemade Vegetarian Gumbo
How to prepare the meatballs: This involves mashing the cannellini beans until mostly smooth, then combining them with the mushroom mixture, bread crumbs, vital wheat gluten, and vegetable broth. The mixture is then kneaded and rolled into meatballs.
How to make the roux: Involves heating olive oil in a pot, adding flour, and stirring continuously until the consistency resembles wet sand.
How to simmer the gumbo: This involves cooking the gumbo on low heat for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens.
How to serve the gumbo: The gumbo is served over rice and garnished with parsley before being enjoyed.
How To Make Homemade Vegetarian Gumbo
Make the most delicious gumbo with our flavorful and guilt-free vegetarian gumbo recipe made with cremini mushrooms, beans, veggie broth, and more!
Serves:
Ingredients
- 6tbspolive oil,divided
- 1cupyellow onion,diced, divided
- 10ozcremini mushroom,finely chopped
- 6clovesgarlic,minced, divided
- 2tbspsoy sauce,low-sodium
- 2tspdried thyme,divided
- 2tspsmoked paprika,divided
- 1tspdried oregano,divided
- ½tspcayenne pepper,divided
- 3tspvegan Worcestershire sauce,divided
- 1tspliquid smoke,divided
- ½tspsalt,plus more to taste, divided
- ¾tsppepper,divided
- 15ozcannellini bean,(1 can) drained, rinsed
- ¾cupbread crumbs
- ⅓cupvital wheat gluten,or bread crumbs
- 3½cupsvegetable broth,plus an additional 2 tbsp, divided
- 3tbspall-purpose flour
- 1stalkcelery,diced
- 2cupokra,sliced into ½-inch rounds
- 1green bell pepper,seeded, diced
- 1½cupstomato,crushed
- 15ozred kidney bean,(1 can) drained, rinsed
- brown rice,cooked, for serving
- fresh parsley,chopped, for serving
Instructions
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In a large pot, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil begins to shimmer, add ½ cup diced onion and cook for 3 to 4 minutes, until semi-translucent.
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Add the mushrooms and cook for 5 minutes, until most of the juices have evaporated.
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Add 2 cloves of minced garlic, soy sauce, 1 teaspoon of thyme, 1 teaspoon of paprika, ½ teaspoon of oregano, ¼ teaspoon of cayenne, 2 teaspoons of vegan Worcestershire sauce, ½ teaspoon of liquid smoke, ½ teaspoon of salt, and ¼ teaspoon of pepper.
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Cook for another 4 to 5 minutes, until all of the liquid has evaporated and the spices are fragrant.
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Add the cannellini beans to a medium bowl and mash until mostly smooth (a few lumps are okay).
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Then, add the mushroom mixture, bread crumbs, vital wheat gluten, and 2 tablespoons of vegetable broth, and mix well until combined.
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Use your hands to knead the mixture until cohesive, then begin to roll about a tablespoon at a time of the mixture into “meatballs”.
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In the same large pot, heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil begins to shimmer, add the meatballs and cook for about 5 minutes on each side, until golden brown.
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Remove the meatballs from the pot and set aside.
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Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil to the pot along with the flour. Stir the roux continuously with a wooden spoon for about 3 to4 minutes, until the consistency resembles wet sand.
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Add the remaining ½ cup of diced onion, celery, and okra to the pot and cook for 4 to 5 minutes, until the onion is semi-translucent.
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Add the remaining 4 cloves of minced garlic and the green bell pepper, and cook for another 3 to 4 minutes, until the garlic is fragrant.
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Add the remaining teaspoon of vegan Worcestershire sauce, ½ teaspoon of liquid smoke, 1 teaspoon of thyme, ½ teaspoon of oregano, 1 teaspoon of paprika, ¼ teaspoon of cayenne, and ½ teaspoon of pepper.
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Cook for 4 more minutes, until the spices are fragrant.
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Add the crushed tomatoes and stir until combined. Then, add the red beans and add the remaining 3½ cups vegetable broth and stir until well combined.
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Simmer on low heat for 30 minutes, stirring from time to time, until the gumbo has thickened.
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Season with salt to taste. Then, add the meatballs and stir to incorporate.
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Serve over rice and garnish with parsley.
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Enjoy!
Nutrition
- Calories: 897.14kcal
- Fat: 19.55g
- Saturated Fat: 2.91g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 12.25g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 3.17g
- Carbohydrates: 135.25g
- Fiber: 31.09g
- Sugar: 10.04g
- Protein: 52.11g
- Sodium: 809.92mg
- Calcium: 418.88mg
- Potassium: 3461.93mg
- Iron: 18.40mg
- Vitamin A: 97.35µg
- Vitamin C: 50.75mg
Helpful Technique for Enhancing Homemade Vegetarian Gumbo
When making your vegetarian gumbo, it's important to continuously stir the roux to prevent it from burning. The roux, a mixture of flour and fat, is the base of your gumbo and gives it its thick consistency. It needs to be cooked slowly and evenly to develop a deep, rich flavor without any burnt taste. If it starts to darken too quickly, reduce the heat and keep stirring. Remember, patience is key when making a perfect roux.
Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Vegetarian Gumbo
Prepare the ingredients: Gather and prepare all the ingredients and equipment before starting to cook to streamline the process.
Multi-task: While one component is cooking, use that time to prepare the next step to save time and be more efficient in the kitchen.
Prep in advance: Chop vegetables and measure out ingredients ahead of time to cut down on prep time when you start cooking.
One-pot cooking: Look for opportunities to cook multiple components in the same pot or pan to minimize clean-up and save time.
Use kitchen tools: Utilize kitchen tools like food processors, blenders, and mixers to speed up the prep work and cooking process.
Follow the recipe: Stick to the recipe to avoid mistakes that could lead to time-consuming fixes or adjustments.
Substitute Ingredients For Homemade Vegetarian Gumbo Recipe
olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a similar high smoke point and mild flavor, making it a suitable substitute for olive oil in this recipe.
yellow onion - Substitute with white onion: White onions have a slightly milder flavor compared to yellow onions and can be used as a substitute in this recipe.
cremini mushroom - Substitute with portobello mushroom: Portobello mushrooms have a similar earthy flavor and meaty texture, making them a great substitute for cremini mushrooms in the gumbo.
garlic - Substitute with shallots: Shallots have a mild garlic flavor and can be used as a substitute for garlic in this recipe.
soy sauce - Substitute with tamari: Tamari is a gluten-free alternative to soy sauce and can be used as a substitute in this vegetarian gumbo recipe.
dried thyme - Substitute with dried marjoram: Dried marjoram has a similar earthy and slightly sweet flavor, making it a suitable substitute for dried thyme in this recipe.
smoked paprika - Substitute with chipotle powder: Chipotle powder adds a smoky flavor similar to smoked paprika and can be used as a substitute in this gumbo recipe.
dried oregano - Substitute with dried basil: Dried basil has a slightly sweet and peppery flavor, making it a suitable substitute for dried oregano in this recipe.
cayenne pepper - Substitute with paprika: Paprika adds a mild heat and smoky flavor, making it a suitable substitute for cayenne pepper in this gumbo recipe.
vegan worcestershire sauce - Substitute with coconut aminos: Coconut aminos have a similar umami flavor and can be used as a substitute for vegan Worcestershire sauce in this recipe.
liquid smoke - Substitute with smoked salt: Smoked salt adds a smoky flavor similar to liquid smoke and can be used as a substitute in this vegetarian gumbo recipe.
cannellini bean - Substitute with great northern beans: Great northern beans have a similar creamy texture and mild flavor, making them a suitable substitute for cannellini beans in this recipe.
bread crumbs - Substitute with panko breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs have a light and airy texture, making them a suitable substitute for regular breadcrumbs in this recipe.
vital wheat gluten - Substitute with chickpea flour: Chickpea flour can be used as a gluten-free substitute for vital wheat gluten in this vegetarian gumbo recipe.
vegetable broth - Substitute with mushroom broth: Mushroom broth adds a rich umami flavor and can be used as a substitute for vegetable broth in this recipe.
all-purpose flour - Substitute with gluten-free flour blend: A gluten-free flour blend can be used as a substitute for all-purpose flour in this recipe.
celery - Substitute with fennel: Fennel has a similar crunchy texture and mild, slightly sweet flavor, making it a suitable substitute for celery in this gumbo recipe.
okra - Substitute with zucchini: Zucchini can be used as a substitute for okra, adding a similar texture to the gumbo.
green bell pepper - Substitute with red bell pepper: Red bell peppers have a slightly sweeter flavor compared to green bell peppers and can be used as a substitute in this recipe.
tomato - Substitute with canned diced tomatoes: Canned diced tomatoes can be used as a substitute for fresh tomatoes in this vegetarian gumbo recipe.
red kidney bean - Substitute with black beans: Black beans have a similar creamy texture and can be used as a substitute for red kidney beans in this recipe.
brown rice - Substitute with quinoa: Quinoa can be used as a substitute for brown rice, adding a nutty flavor and fluffy texture to the gumbo.
fresh parsley - Substitute with fresh cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds a bright, herbaceous flavor and can be used as a substitute for fresh parsley in this recipe.
Presentation Tips for Homemade Vegetarian Gumbo
Elevate the plating: When presenting the gumbo, focus on creating an artful and visually appealing arrangement on the plate. Use the vibrant colors of the dish to create a visually stunning presentation that is sure to impress.
Garnish with fresh parsley: Sprinkle a generous amount of freshly chopped parsley over the gumbo just before serving. This will not only add a pop of color but also infuse the dish with a fresh, herbaceous aroma.
Incorporate brown rice: Serve the gumbo over a bed of fluffy, perfectly cooked brown rice. The nutty flavor and slightly chewy texture of the rice will complement the rich flavors of the gumbo, adding depth to the overall presentation.
Use elegant serving dishes: Opt for sophisticated and stylish serving dishes that complement the rustic charm of the gumbo. Choose vessels that enhance the overall presentation and elevate the dining experience for the esteemed guests.
Create a balanced composition: Pay attention to the placement of each element on the plate. Aim for a balanced composition that showcases the various components of the gumbo while maintaining an elegant and refined presentation.
Highlight the meatballs: Arrange the meatballs strategically on the plate to make them a focal point of the presentation. Their golden-brown exterior and savory aroma should be highlighted to entice the senses.
Add a touch of sophistication with a drizzle of olive oil: Just before serving, delicately drizzle a high-quality olive oil over the gumbo to add a touch of richness and sophistication to the dish. The glistening sheen of the oil will enhance the visual appeal and elevate the overall presentation.
Emphasize the umami flavors: Highlight the depth of flavors in the gumbo by emphasizing the umami-rich ingredients. Ensure that the presentation reflects the complexity and layers of taste that the dish offers, enticing the judges with its depth of flavor.
Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Vegetarian Gumbo
- Cutting board: A flat surface used for cutting, slicing, and chopping ingredients.
- Chef's knife: A versatile kitchen knife used for a variety of tasks such as chopping, slicing, and dicing.
- Large pot: A deep cooking vessel used for preparing soups, stews, and boiling ingredients.
- Wooden spoon: A kitchen utensil used for stirring, mixing, and cooking various dishes.
- Skillet: A frying pan with a flat bottom and sloping sides, used for sautéing and frying ingredients.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Used for accurately measuring ingredients in cooking and baking.
- Whisk: A kitchen tool used for blending, whipping, and beating ingredients together.
- Saucepan: A small, deep cooking vessel with a long handle, used for heating and cooking sauces, soups, and liquids.
- Oven: A kitchen appliance used for baking, roasting, and heating food.
- Stovetop: The cooking surface on top of a stove, used for heating pots and pans.
Storing and Freezing Homemade Vegetarian Gumbo
- Let the gumbo cool completely to room temperature before storing or freezing.
- To store in the refrigerator, transfer the cooled gumbo to an airtight container and keep it refrigerated for up to 4-5 days.
- When ready to reheat, transfer the desired portion to a saucepan and heat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. You may need to add a splash of vegetable broth or water to thin out the consistency if it has thickened too much in the refrigerator.
- To freeze, transfer the cooled gumbo to freezer-safe containers or resealable bags, leaving about an inch of space at the top for expansion. Label the containers with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.
- To reheat frozen gumbo, first, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight. Then, transfer the thawed gumbo to a saucepan and heat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. You may need to add a splash of vegetable broth or water to thin out the consistency if it has thickened too much during freezing and thawing.
- For best results, store the rice separately from the gumbo, as it will absorb liquid and become mushy if stored together. Cook fresh rice when ready to serve the reheated gumbo.
- When reheating, be sure to heat the gumbo until it is steaming hot throughout to ensure food safety.
How To Reheat Leftover Vegetarian Gumbo
Stovetop method: transfer the leftover gumbo to a pot or saucepan and reheat it over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until it's heated through. This method allows you to control the temperature and ensure that the gumbo is evenly heated without burning or sticking to the bottom of the pot. If the gumbo seems too thick, you can add a splash of vegetable broth or water to thin it out.
Microwave method: place the desired portion of leftover gumbo in a microwave-safe bowl and cover it with a damp paper towel or a microwave-safe lid. Heat the gumbo in the microwave on high power in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until it's heated through. Be careful when removing the bowl from the microwave, as it may be hot.
Oven method: preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the leftover gumbo to an oven-safe dish and cover it with aluminum foil. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the gumbo is heated through. Stir the gumbo halfway through the reheating process to ensure even heating.
Slow cooker method: if you have a large amount of leftover gumbo, you can reheat it in a slow cooker. Transfer the gumbo to the slow cooker and set it to low heat. Cover and let the gumbo reheat for 1-2 hours, stirring occasionally, until it's heated through. This method is particularly useful if you want to keep the gumbo warm for an extended period, such as during a party or gathering.
Regardless of the reheating method you choose, be sure to stir the gumbo well to distribute the heat evenly and prevent any cold spots. Also, make sure that the gumbo reaches an internal temperature of at least 165°F (74°C) to ensure that it's safe to consume.
Interesting Fact About Vegetarian Gumbo
The vegetarian gumbo recipe is a delicious and nutritious meal that can be enjoyed by everyone, regardless of dietary preferences. It's a great way to incorporate more plant-based protein into your diet, as the recipe includes cannellini beans and vital wheat gluten, which are both excellent sources of protein. Additionally, the use of a variety of vegetables and spices in the recipe provides a wide range of essential nutrients and antioxidants. This homemade gumbo is a flavorful and satisfying dish that showcases the versatility and deliciousness of vegetarian cooking. Enjoy!
Is Making Vegetarian Gumbo at Home Cost-Effective?
The cost-effectiveness of this vegetarian gumbo recipe is quite high, as it utilizes affordable ingredients like beans, vegetables, and spices. The use of pantry staples and versatile components makes it a budget-friendly option for households. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $20, making it an economical choice. The overall verdict for this recipe is 9/10, considering its affordability, nutritional value, and delicious flavors.
Is This Vegetarian Gumbo Recipe Healthy?
This vegetarian gumbo recipe has several healthy elements, such as:
- The use of olive oil, which is a heart-healthy fat
- Plenty of vegetables, including onions, mushrooms, celery, okra, bell peppers, and tomatoes, which provide essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber
- The inclusion of protein-rich beans, like cannellini and red kidney beans
However, there are a few aspects that could be improved to make the recipe even healthier:
- The recipe calls for a significant amount of oil, which could be reduced to lower the overall calorie and fat content
- The use of all-purpose flour and bread crumbs adds refined carbohydrates to the dish, which could be replaced with whole-grain alternatives
- The sodium content may be high due to the use of soy sauce, vegan Worcestershire sauce, and added salt
To make this recipe even healthier, consider the following suggestions:
- Reduce the amount of oil used in the recipe, especially when cooking the meatballs and making the roux
- Replace the all-purpose flour with a whole-grain flour, such as whole wheat or spelt flour, to increase the fiber content and reduce refined carbohydrates
- Use whole-grain bread crumbs or rolled oats instead of regular bread crumbs for the meatballs
- Opt for low-sodium versions of soy sauce, vegan Worcestershire sauce, and vegetable broth to reduce the overall sodium content
- Increase the variety of vegetables used in the gumbo, such as adding carrots, zucchini, or leafy greens like kale or spinach, to boost the nutrient profile
- Serve the gumbo with a side of quinoa or brown rice instead of white rice to incorporate more whole grains and fiber into the meal
Editor's Opinion on This Vegetarian Gumbo Recipe
This vegetarian gumbo recipe is a delightful twist on the traditional dish, offering a rich and flavorful experience for both vegetarians and meat-eaters alike. The combination of mushrooms, beans, and a variety of spices creates a hearty and satisfying meal. The homemade meatballs add a unique texture and depth to the gumbo, while the blend of vegetables and seasonings provides a robust and comforting flavor. This recipe is a great option for those looking to enjoy a meatless version of a classic gumbo, and it's sure to impress with its complex and savory taste.
Enhance Your Homemade Vegetarian Gumbo Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
Similar Vegetarian Recipes to Try
Appetizer and Dessert Pairings for Homemade Vegetarian Gumbo
Why trust this Homemade Vegetarian Gumbo Recipe:
This vegetarian gumbo recipe offers a delightful blend of cremini mushrooms, cannellini beans, and a medley of aromatic spices. The savory meatballs are crafted from wholesome vital wheat gluten and bread crumbs, providing a hearty and satisfying texture. With a rich base of vegetable broth and a harmonious infusion of smoked paprika and thyme, this gumbo promises a symphony of flavors. The meticulous steps and attention to detail ensure a delectable outcome, making this recipe a trustworthy choice for a comforting and flavorful vegetarian meal.
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