Creole Soul Vegan Dirty Rice (Soy-Free)

This rice dish is rich, smoky, and intensely flavorful, using finely chopped vegetables and Creole seasoning to achieve the "dirty" look and taste.

INGREDIENTS

A. Rice & Aromatics

• 1 cup Long-Grain White Rice, rinsed thoroughly
• 1 tbsp Olive Oil, Grapeseed, or high-heat oil
• 1/2 medium Red Onion, finely diced
• 1/2 Green Bell Pepper, finely diced
• 1/2 cup Celery, finely diced (about 2 stalks)
• 4 cloves Garlic, minced

B. Flavor Base & Liquid

• 2 cups Vegetable Broth (low-sodium, ensure soy-free)
• 2 tbsp Tomato Paste
• 1 tbsp Creole Seasoning (such as Tony Chachere's or a homemade blend)
• 1 tsp Smoked Paprika
• 1/2 tsp Dried Thyme
• 1/4 tsp Cayenne Pepper (optional, for extra heat)
• 1/4 tsp Liquid Smoke (optional, adds depth)
• 1/2 cup Frozen Peas and/or Diced Carrots
• 1/2 tsp Salt (adjust based on broth/seasoning)
• 1/4 tsp Black Pepper

INSTRUCTIONS

STEP 1: SAUTÉ THE ONION, BELL PEPPER & CELERY

1. Sauté: Heat the olive oil in a medium pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onion, green bell pepper, and celery. Sauté for 8-10 minutes until the vegetables are very soft and fragrant. This step is crucial for flavor development.
2. Add Garlic & Tomato Paste: Stir in the minced garlic and tomato paste. Cook for 2 minutes, stirring constantly, to caramelize the paste.

STEP 2: BUILD FLAVOR AND SIMMER

1. Add Spices: Stir in the Creole seasoning, smoked paprika, dried thyme, cayenne pepper (if using), and liquid smoke (if using). Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
2. Toast Rice: Add the rinsed rice to the pot and stir until it is well-coated in the oil and spices. Cook for 2 minutes to slightly toast the grains.
3. Add Liquid: Pour in the vegetable broth. Add salt and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring once.
4. Simmer: Once boiling, immediately reduce the heat to the lowest setting, cover the pot tightly, and let it simmer for 18-20 minutes. DO NOT lift the lid during this time.

STEP 3: FINISH AND SERVE

1. Rest: After 18-20 minutes, remove the pot from the heat and let it sit, still covered, for 10 minutes. This allows the rice to finish steaming and absorb all the flavors.
2. Finish: Uncover the pot. Stir in the frozen peas and/or diced carrots. Gently fluff the rice with a fork. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed (a dash more Creole seasoning or a splash of hot sauce is using.
3. Serve: Serve hot, garnished with fresh chopped parsley or green onions. Enjoy!