To be honest, I don’t think I’ve ever had authentic gumbo, but my intuition tells me that it involves some sort of tomato base, okra, and a grain. Hence, my vegan version below…

Easy Black-Eyed Pea Gumbo

(Serves 1)

Ingredients

• 1 small clove garlic, minced
• 1/3 cup red onion, diced
• 1 cup okra, chopped
• 3/4 cup canned, no-salt-added diced tomatoes
• 3/4 cup canned, no-salt-added black-eyed peas
• 3 T. whole wheat couscous, dry
• 1/2 cup water
• 2 tsp. chili powder
• 1/2 tsp. ground cayenne pepper
• 1/2 tsp. smoked paprika
• salt, to taste

Method

1. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, cook garlic and onions until tender, 2-3 minutes.

2. Add okra and cook an additional 2-3 minutes.

3. Add remaining ingredients, turn down heat, and simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until the couscous has completely absorbed the liquid. Serve and enjoy!

Notes:

-I have also successfully made this recipe using black beans instead of black-eyed peas. Use whatever you have on hand!

-I chose to use couscous instead of brown rice in this recipe due to its quick cooking time. If you have a little spare time, go ahead and use rice.

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