Smoky Vegan Jackfruit Gumbo brings a soulful touch to plant-based cooking with its warm, rich flavors. It's a perfect dish for when you crave something hearty yet wholesome. This gumbo is not just a meal; it's an experience that will transport you straight to the heart of Louisiana.
Olive oil serves as the base for sautéing, adding a subtle richness. Onion, bell pepper, and celery form the classic Cajun “holy trinity,” delivering essential savory notes. Garlic infuses the dish with aromatic depth. The star, jackfruit, offers a meaty texture that soaks up the smoky spices. Smoked paprika and cayenne pepper introduce a warmth and kick, while thyme and oregano provide herbal undertones. All-purpose flour thickens the gumbo to a perfect consistency. Vegetable broth and diced tomatoes create a flavorful base. Okra adds traditional gumbo texture, and cooked brown rice makes it a complete meal. Salt and pepper fine-tune the seasoning, while fresh parsley and green onions finish with a touch of freshness.
This gumbo pairs beautifully with a side of crusty bread, perfect for soaking up the flavorful broth. For a complete Southern experience, serve it alongside a simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette. A cool glass of iced tea or a crisp white wine complements the meal perfectly.
Start by heating up a tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. You want to add your diced onion, bell pepper, and celery to the pot and sauté them until they're soft and aromatic. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, just until its fragrance blooms.
Next, toss in the shredded jackfruit. Stir in the smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, thyme, oregano, and flour. Make sure everything is well-coated — the flour will help thicken the gumbo later. Slowly pour in the vegetable broth, stirring constantly to avoid any lumps. This is key to a smooth consistency.
Now it's time to add the diced tomatoes and sliced okra. Stir well and bring the mixture to a simmer. Once it's bubbling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 45 minutes. Give it a stir occasionally to prevent sticking. When you're ready to serve, season with salt and pepper, and stir in the cooked brown rice.
Finish your gumbo with a sprinkle of chopped parsley and sliced green onions for a fresh pop of color and flavor.
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