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🌟 Vegan Cajun Lunch: Mouthwatering Tempeh Jambalaya with Aromatic Spices & Creole Flavors

🌟 Vegan Cajun Lunch: Mouthwatering Tempeh Jambalaya with Aromatic Spices & Creole Flavors

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Prep: 15 minutes
Cook: 30 minutes
Total: 45 minutes
2-4 servings
Easy

About This Recipe

A plant-based take on the Louisiana classic, this tempeh jambalaya brings together Cajun spices, the holy trinity of onion, celery, and bell pepper, and long-grain rice simmered in a savory broth with diced tomatoes.

Cajun cuisine originates from the French-speaking settlers in Louisiana, who blended their culinary traditions with those of African and Acadian communities. Jambalaya is a staple dish in Cajun cooking, typically made with meat and rice. This vegan version replaces the traditional protein with tempeh for a plant-based twist.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup tempeh, diced
  • 2 cup vegetable broth
  • 1 cup uncooked long-grain rice
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 1 green bell pepper, chopped
  • 1 red bell pepper, chopped
  • 2 celery stalks, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 tsp paprika
  • 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
  • 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • 1 tsp Creole seasoning
  • 1 cup diced tomatoes
  • 1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • salt, to taste
  • 1 tbsp vegetable oil

Instructions

  1. 1

    In a large skillet or saucepan, heat a small amount of oil over medium heat.

  2. 2

    Add the diced onion, bell peppers, and celery; sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.

  3. 3

    Stir in the garlic, paprika, cayenne pepper, black pepper, thyme, and Creole seasoning; cook for 1 minute.

  4. 4

    Add the tempeh to the skillet; cook until slightly browned, stirring occasionally.

  5. 5

    Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil.

  6. 6

    Stir in the rice; reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 18 minutes or until the rice is cooked.

  7. 7

    Add the diced tomatoes and parsley; season with salt, as needed. Cook for an additional 2 minutes, then remove from heat.

  8. 8

    Let the jambalaya sit for a few minutes before serving.

Chef's Notes

Tempeh benefits from a quick sear before simmering to develop a nutty, slightly crisp exterior. Adjust cayenne to taste for more or less heat.

Plating Tips

Serve in a wide shallow bowl and garnish with extra chopped parsley and a few dashes of hot sauce on the side.

Nutrition (per serving)

454 kcal18g protein72g carbs8g fat5g fiber8g sugar727mg sodium