Ingredients

The following ingredients have 8 Servings
  • 2 tablespoons unbleached white flour
  • 1 medium onion (chopped)
  • 1 medium green or yellow pepper (chopped)
  • 2 ribs celery (chopped)
  • 2 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 3 cups vegetable broth
  • 2 15-ounce cans diced tomatoes
  • 8 ounces eggplant or other vegetables (diced (see note))
  • 1 pound sliced okra (fresh or frozen)
  • 1 16-ounce can chickpeas (drained)
  • 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (or to taste)
  • 1-3 teaspoons Tabasco
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons dried thyme
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon liquid smoke flavoring (or chipotle chile powder to taste)
  • 2-3 cups additional broth or water

Instruction

  • In a small skillet, toast the flour over medium-high heat, stirring constantly, until it is a uniform tan color, about the color of whole wheat flour. (If you use whole wheat flour for this, it will of course be darker.) Be very careful not to burn it. Remove from heat and set aside to cool.
  • Heat a large non-stick pot and sauté the onions, pepper, and celery over medium-high heat. When the vegetables begin to get brown, add the garlic and browned flour and stir to combine. Add the vegetable broth and tomatoes, stir, and add all the remaining ingredients. The gumbo should have enough liquid to resemble a chunky soup; if it is too dry, add some more vegetable broth or water. 
  • Cook for at least 30 minutes, until the flavors have a chance to mingle. Remove the bay leaves and serve over rice.