Recipe for Vegan Gumbo: Easy, Flavorful, and Healthy

Gumbo is a beloved classic from the heart of Louisiana, known for its rich flavors, hearty ingredients, and soulful appeal. Traditionally made with seafood or meats, this dish can easily be transformed into a comforting, flavorful vegan delight that satisfies both vegans and non-vegans alike.

This vegan gumbo recipe brings together the essence of Creole cooking with fresh vegetables, smoky spices, and a thick, delicious roux that creates a perfect balance of texture and taste.

Whether you’re looking to explore Southern cuisine without animal products or simply want a warming bowl of gumbo on a chilly evening, this recipe is sure to impress. It’s packed with wholesome ingredients like okra, bell peppers, and mushrooms, and seasoned with traditional Cajun spices.

Plus, it’s easy to customize, making it a versatile addition to your recipe collection. Ready to dive into a bowl of soulful goodness?

Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegan gumbo is a fantastic way to enjoy the rich, bold flavors of Creole cuisine without any animal products. The dish is incredibly hearty and satisfying, filled with nutritious vegetables and plant-based protein that make it a complete meal.

It uses a traditional roux made with oil and flour, giving it that characteristic thick and velvety texture that gumbo fans crave.

Another reason to love this recipe is its versatility. You can easily swap out veggies based on what’s in season or what you have on hand.

Plus, it’s perfect for meal prep and reheats wonderfully. If you enjoy dishes with a bit of spice and deep, complex flavors, this gumbo will quickly become a favorite in your recipe rotation.

Ingredients

• 1/4 cup vegetable oil (for roux)
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (for roux)
• 1 large onion, diced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups okra, sliced
• 8 oz mushrooms (cremini or button), sliced
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes with juice
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 cup cooked kidney beans or black-eyed peas
• 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Cooked white rice, for serving
• Chopped green onions and fresh parsley, for garnish

Equipment

• Large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon, for stirring the roux
• Sharp knife and cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Ladle, for serving
• Bowls for serving

Instructions

1. Make the roux: In your heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Slowly whisk in the flour to create a smooth paste. Continue stirring constantly with a wooden spoon, making sure to scrape the bottom and sides of the pot to prevent burning. Cook for about 10-15 minutes until the roux turns a dark caramel brown color, similar to peanut butter. Patience here is key for a deep, rich flavor.
2. Add the “holy trinity”: Once the roux is ready, add the diced onion, green bell pepper, and celery to the pot. Stir to coat the vegetables in the roux, and cook for 5-7 minutes until they soften and the onions turn translucent.
3. Garlic and mushrooms: Stir in the minced garlic and sliced mushrooms. Cook for another 5 minutes, allowing the mushrooms to release their moisture and soften.
4. Add okra and tomatoes: Add the sliced okra and canned diced tomatoes along with their juice. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
5. Spice it up: Sprinkle in the smoked paprika, dried thyme, oregano, Cajun seasoning, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper. Stir well to evenly distribute the spices.
6. Pour in the broth: Slowly add the vegetable broth, stirring constantly to prevent lumps from forming. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for 30-40 minutes. This will allow the flavors to meld and the gumbo to thicken.
7. Add beans: About 10 minutes before the gumbo is done, stir in the cooked kidney beans or black-eyed peas. Continue to simmer until the beans are heated through.
8. Final taste and adjust: Taste your gumbo and adjust the seasoning if needed. Add more salt, pepper, or Cajun spice according to your preference.
9. Serve: Ladle the gumbo over bowls of hot cooked white rice. Garnish with chopped green onions and fresh parsley for a pop of color and fresh flavor.

Tips & Variations

“The key to an authentic gumbo flavor lies in the roux—be sure to stir continuously to avoid burning and aim for a deep brown color.”

• Vegetables: Feel free to add other veggies like zucchini, carrots, or sweet potatoes for added texture and nutrition.
• Protein boost: Add cooked vegan sausage or smoked tofu for extra protein and smokiness.
• Spice level: Adjust cayenne pepper and Cajun seasoning to suit your heat tolerance.
• Thickening: If you want a thicker gumbo, mash some of the beans before stirring them in or use a cornstarch slurry.
• Gluten-free option: Substitute the all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour or use a pre-made gluten-free roux.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This vegan gumbo pairs beautifully with warm crusty bread or a side of Vegan Bread Machine Recipe for Soft, Delicious Loaves to soak up the flavorful sauce. A simple side salad with a tangy vinaigrette also complements the richness of the gumbo perfectly.

For a more substantial meal, serve it alongside Vegetarian Swiss Chard Recipes for Healthy Meals or a light vegetable stir-fry. And if you’re craving some dessert after this savory feast, the Vegetarian Date Cake Recipe: Moist, Easy, and Delicious is a perfect sweet finale.

Conclusion

Making vegan gumbo is a rewarding experience that brings the heart of Southern cooking right into your kitchen—without any animal products involved. This recipe balances tradition with plant-based goodness, creating a dish that’s hearty, flavorful, and nourishing.

The secret lies in the roux and the careful layering of spices that build depth and warmth in every bite.

Whether you’re new to vegan cooking or a seasoned pro, this gumbo is sure to become a staple for cozy dinners and family gatherings. Its flexibility means you can easily tailor it to your taste and dietary needs, making it as spicy, smoky, or mild as you like.

So grab your pot, gather your ingredients, and enjoy a bowl of soulful vegan gumbo that’s both delicious and wholesome.

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