Vegan Italian Sausage & Rice – A one pot quickie

One pot cooking technique can be applied to a whole world of combinations. This is one of my favorites, rice & protein.

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Jambalaya influenced

Vegan jambalaya is a plant-based version of the traditional Louisiana Creole dish, which typically includes meat and seafood. In the vegan version, these animal-based ingredients are replaced with plant-based alternatives to create a flavorful and satisfying dish.

The base of vegan jambalaya usually consists of vegetables such as onions, bell peppers, celery, and garlic, which are sautéed in oil. Additional vegetables like tomatoes, okra, corn, or mushrooms can also be added for extra flavor and texture.

To replace the meat and seafood, plant-based proteins like tofu, tempeh, seitan, or vegan sausage can be used. These proteins can be seasoned with Cajun spices or other seasonings to mimic the flavors of traditional jambalaya.

Rice is a key component of jambalaya, and in the vegan version, long-grain rice is typically used. The rice is cooked with the vegetables, plant-based proteins, and a flavorful broth or tomato sauce until it is tender and absorbs all the flavors.

Spices like Cajun seasoning, paprika, thyme, and bay leaves are commonly used to give vegan jambalaya its signature taste. Salt, pepper, and hot sauce can be added to adjust the seasoning according to personal preference.

Vegan jambalaya is a versatile dish that can be customized to suit individual tastes and dietary preferences. It is a delicious and satisfying option for those following a plant-based or vegan lifestyle.

What is one pot technique?

One pot cooking is a technique where an entire meal is prepared using just one pot or pan. It involves adding all the ingredients to the pot at different stages of cooking, allowing them to cook together and infuse flavors. Here are the basic steps for one pot cooking:

1. Choose a suitable pot or pan: Select a pot or pan that is large enough to accommodate all the ingredients comfortably.
2. Prepare the ingredients: Chop vegetables, trim meat, and gather all the necessary ingredients before starting.
3. Sauté aromatics: Heat some oil or cooking fat in the pot over medium heat. Add aromatics like onions, garlic, and spices to infuse flavor into the dish.
4. Add protein and vegetables: Add protein sources like meat, tofu, or legumes to the pot and cook until they are partially cooked or browned. Then, add vegetables and cook until they start to soften.
5. Add grains or starches: If using grains like rice or pasta, add them to the pot along with the liquid (such as broth or water) and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat, cover, and let it simmer until the grains are cooked and the liquid is absorbed.
6. Adjust seasonings: Taste the dish and adjust the seasonings as needed, adding salt, pepper, herbs, or spices to enhance the flavors.
7. Serve: Once everything is cooked and flavors have melded together, remove the pot from heat and serve the one pot meal directly from the pot or transfer it to serving dishes.

One pot cooking is a convenient and efficient technique that saves time and reduces the number of dishes to clean. It is versatile and can be used for a wide range of dishes, from soups and stews to stir-fries and pasta dishes.

What is Tofurkey

Tofurkey is a brand name for a vegetarian or vegan alternative to turkey. It is typically made from tofu, a soy-based protein, and is shaped and flavored to resemble the taste and texture of turkey. Tofurkey is often used as a centerpiece for vegetarian or vegan holiday meals, such as Thanksgiving, as a substitute for traditional turkey. It is a popular choice for those following a plant-based diet or looking for meat alternatives. Tofurkey is available in various forms, including roasts, deli slices, and sausages.

Brown rice

Brown rice is a whole grain rice that has had only the outermost layer, the hull, removed. This means it retains its bran and germ, which give it a nutty flavor and chewy texture. Brown rice is considered to be a healthier alternative to white rice because it is higher in fiber, vitamins, and minerals. It is also a good source of complex carbohydrates and provides a steady release of energy. Brown rice can be used in a variety of dishes, such as stir-fries, salads, and pilafs.

Gandules

We added some Gandules for some extra heartiness!

Gandules, also known as pigeon peas, are a type of legume that is commonly used in Caribbean, Latin American, and Indian cuisines. They are small, round, and come in various colors, including green, yellow, and brown. Gandules have a slightly nutty flavor and a firm texture.

Gandules are a good source of protein, dietary fiber, and various vitamins and minerals. They are often used in stews, soups, rice dishes, and curries. In Puerto Rico, for example, gandules are a key ingredient in the traditional dish called arroz con gandules, which is rice cooked with pigeon peas and various seasonings.

Gandules are versatile and can be cooked in various ways, including boiling, steaming, or pressure cooking. They can also be dried and stored for later use. Overall, gandules are a nutritious and flavorful addition to many dishes.

How to make

• Sauté aromatics, onions & peppers in a pot with a good amount of olive oil.
• Throw in sliced Tofurkey! We used Italian sausages.
• Add in Tomato Paste & seasonings, keep on stirring till color darkens a bit.
• Add in rice & Liquid.
• I used brown rice but using long grain basmati or jasmine will be better.
• Bring to boil & turn the heat to low for 30 mins.
• I added water and stirred a couple of times so check every 10 minutes.
• Add in Pigeon peas.
• Finish with any herb you might have on hand.