Mardi Gras Veggie Jambalaya (Printable version)
Vibrant, flavor-packed Creole rice with colorful vegetables and bold spices. Ideal for Mardi Gras or any festive meal.
# What You'll Need:
→ Fresh Produce
01 - 1 large yellow onion, diced
02 - 1 red bell pepper, diced
03 - 1 green bell pepper, diced
04 - 2 celery stalks, diced
05 - 3 garlic cloves, minced
06 - 1 medium zucchini, diced
07 - 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
08 - 1 cup sliced okra, fresh or frozen
09 - 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
10 - 2 green onions, sliced
11 - Lemon wedges, for serving (optional)
→ Pantry Staples
12 - 2 tablespoons olive oil
13 - 1 1/2 cups long-grain white rice
14 - 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
15 - 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, rinsed and drained
16 - 3 cups vegetable broth
→ Spices & Seasonings
17 - 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
18 - 1 teaspoon dried thyme
19 - 1 teaspoon dried oregano
20 - 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper, adjust to taste
21 - 1 teaspoon salt
22 - 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
23 - 2 bay leaves
# Directions:
01 - In a large Dutch oven or deep skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced yellow onion, red bell pepper, and green bell pepper along with the celery. Sauté for 5 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften.
02 - Stir in the minced garlic, diced zucchini, and sliced okra. Continue to cook for 3 to 4 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
03 - Add the long-grain white rice to the pot and toast it for 2 minutes, stirring continuously to prevent sticking and ensure even toasting.
04 - Incorporate the diced tomatoes (with their juices), rinsed kidney beans, vegetable broth, smoked paprika, dried thyme, dried oregano, cayenne pepper, salt, black pepper, and bay leaves. Stir thoroughly to combine all ingredients. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot tightly and let it simmer for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed the liquid.
05 - Carefully remove and discard the bay leaves. Fluff the cooked rice gently with a fork. Stir in the halved cherry tomatoes and taste, adjusting the seasoning as needed to enhance the flavors.
06 - Serve the Mardi Gras Veggie Jambalaya hot, garnished generously with fresh chopped parsley, sliced green onions, and optional lemon wedges for a bright finish.
# Expert advice:
01 -
- You'll be amazed at how much flavor you can pack into a vegetarian dish, truly a revelation!
- It's a fantastic way to enjoy a hearty, festive meal that still feels fresh and light.
02 -
- I once overstirred the rice during cooking, and it turned out gluey; resisting the urge to peek and stir is paramount for fluffy rice!
- Discovering the power of smoked paprika truly elevated this dish from good to absolutely incredible; it's not just regular paprika.
03 -
- Don't rush the sautéing of the 'holy trinity' (onion, bell peppers, celery); building that flavor base is crucial for a truly delicious jambalaya.
- For an extra layer of flavor and protein, consider adding some crumbled vegan sausage during the sautéing step – it's a fantastic addition!