Name: Vegan Instant Pot Gumbo with Roasted Okra and Lentils Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Creole / Cajun
Ingredients: 1 Tablespoon light olive oil; 1 teaspoon minced garlic or 2 cloves; 1 bell pepper, diced; 1 ½ cups onion, chopped; 3 celery ribs, chopped (~1 cup); 1 Tablespoon fresh thyme or 1 teaspoon dried; 1 Tablespoon smoked paprika (plus more to taste); 3 teaspoon Cajun spice mix (adjust to taste); ½ teaspoon dried oregano; ¼ – ½ teaspoon cayenne; 1 Tablespoon apple cider vinegar; ⅔ cup uncooked red lentils; 3 cups vegetable broth or chicken broth; 1 can (14 ounces) fire roasted tomatoes; 1 Tablespoon Tabasco or Cajun hot sauce (plus more to taste); 1 bay leaf; 2 cups fresh or frozen chopped okra*; Kosher salt and pepper to taste; Cooked white rice or cauliflower rice for serving; Optional toppings: chopped cilantro, diced jalapeno; 3 Tablespoons butter or non-dairy butter; 3 Tablespoons all-purpose gluten-free flour

Jump to Recipe· 3.9 from 5 reviews

If you have ever wished to bring the soulful, spicy flavors of the South into your kitchen without all the fuss, this Vegan Instant Pot Gumbo with Roasted Okra and Lentils Recipe is your new best friend. It’s a vibrant medley of tender lentils, smoky spices, and beautifully roasted okra that come together in the magic of the Instant Pot. Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or simply curious about plant-based comfort food, this recipe delivers a warm, hearty bowl that feels just like a hug in a pot.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a top view of a white marbled surface with ingredients arranged neatly. At the top left, there are green celery stalks, next to a glass bowl filled with chopped green okra pieces. Above the okra is a clear round container holding orange lentils. To the right of the lentils, there is an unopened silver can with no label, tilted slightly. Below the can, two small glass bowls hold bright red and orange spices. On the bottom left, there is a whole garlic bulb, next to a large yellow onion, and to the far right, a whole red bell pepper lies on the surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of this gumbo lies in its simplicity and the thoughtful harmony of each ingredient. Every item plays a crucial role—bringing layers of flavor, rich textures, and a pop of color that makes each spoonful truly satisfying.

Light olive oil: Helps sauté the veggies with a subtle, fruity base note.
Minced garlic or fresh cloves: Adds aromatic depth and a slight bite.
Bell pepper, diced: Delivers sweetness and a burst of color.
Onion, chopped: The foundation of flavor, mellow and savory.
Celery ribs, chopped: Brings crunch and an herbal freshness.
Fresh thyme or dried thyme: Infuses an earthy, woodsy aroma.
Smoked paprika: Offers warmth and a subtle smokiness that elevates the dish.
Cajun spice mix: Packs the gumbo with authentic southern heat and seasoning.
Dried oregano: Provides a herbaceous note to balance the spices.
Cayenne pepper: Adds a kick of vibrant heat, adjustable to your heat preference.
Apple cider vinegar: Introduces tang and brightness that cuts through richness.
Uncooked red lentils: The hearty protein that creates a creamy yet textured stew.
Vegetable broth: A flavorful liquid base that ties all components together.
Fire roasted tomatoes: Deliver smoky sweetness and vibrant acidity.
Tabasco or Cajun hot sauce: Adds an extra layer of piquancy and complexity.
Bay leaf: Subtle, fragrant undertones that round out the gumbo.
Fresh or frozen chopped okra: Roasted to add crunch and the classic gumbo texture.
Kosher salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning and balancing flavors.
Cooked white rice or cauliflower rice: Perfect for soaking up the saucy goodness.
Optional toppings (cilantro, diced jalapeño): Provide bursts of freshness and heat.
For the roux: Vegan butter and gluten-free flour come together to thicken and add richness.

How to Make Vegan Instant Pot Gumbo with Roasted Okra and Lentils Recipe

Step 1: Roast the Okra

Begin by preheating your oven to 450 degrees Fahrenheit, and spread your fresh or frozen okra on a baking sheet. Roasting the okra until it’s slightly crispy and caramelized around the edges works wonders for adding a delightful texture and deep, nutty flavor that you just can’t get from boiling or steaming. This step brings out the best in the okra, ensuring it won’t be slimy but instead perfectly complemented in the gumbo.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables and Spices

Switch your Instant Pot to the sauté mode and warm the olive oil. Add the onions, garlic, bell pepper, and celery, cooking them until they soften and release their fragrant aromas. This creates the base of your gumbo, bursting with natural sweetness and earthiness. Then stir in the thyme, smoked paprika, Cajun spice mix, oregano, and cayenne for a balanced, smoky spice blend that makes your gumbo sing with Southern charm.

Step 3: Add Lentils and Liquids

Now stir in the apple cider vinegar, uncooked red lentils, vegetable broth, fire roasted tomatoes, hot sauce, and a bay leaf. This assembly of ingredients will happily mingle and transform into a robust, full-bodied gumbo. The vinegar adds acidity and brightness, while lentils soak up all the spices and broth into a wonderfully creamy texture.

Step 4: Pressure Cook the Gumbo

Secure the Instant Pot lid and set the vent to closed. Select manual mode and cook on high pressure for just 3 minutes, followed by a natural release of 12 to 15 minutes. This quick pressure cooking perfectly softens the lentils and melds the flavors without overcooking your veggies, preserving their freshness.

Step 5: Prepare the Roux

While the gumbo is cooking, whisk together the vegan butter and gluten-free flour in a small saucepan over medium heat. Cook and stir frequently for about 5 to 7 minutes until the mixture turns a rich butterscotch color. This roux will thicken your gumbo, lending it silkiness and depth. Be careful not to burn it, as the roux is a delicate balance that requires attentive stirring.

Step 6: Finish the Gumbo

Once the Instant Pot has finished its natural release, unlock the lid and remove the bay leaf. Stir in the roux and the roasted okra to thicken and enrich the gumbo. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to your taste, and maybe a bit more hot sauce if you love the heat. The result is a luscious, hearty stew packed with complex flavors and textures.

How to Serve Vegan Instant Pot Gumbo with Roasted Okra and Lentils Recipe

The image shows one white plate with two layers: on the left, a thick stew made of orange lentils mixed with diced green okra, small bits of orange carrots, and green herbs sprinkled on top, creating a chunky textured layer; on the right, a fluffy layer of plain white rice partially mixed into the stew, with a few green herb pieces scattered on it. A silver spoon is placed on the bottom right edge of the plate, partially touching the rice. The plate is set on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To elevate your gumbo even further, fresh garnishes like chopped cilantro or diced jalapeño add contrast and vibrancy. The cilantro brings a fresh, herbaceous lift while the jalapeño contributes an exciting spicy crunch that balances the deep smoky flavors within the gumbo. Sprinkle these on as you serve to personalize every bowl.

Side Dishes

The classic way to enjoy gumbo is over a scoop of fluffy white rice, which beautifully soaks up all the rich sauce. For a lighter, lower-carb option, serve it on cauliflower rice. A simple side salad with crisp greens and a citrus vinaigrette can also provide a refreshing counterpart to the gumbo’s hearty richness.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve your Vegan Instant Pot Gumbo with Roasted Okra and Lentils Recipe inside a hollowed-out bell pepper for an eye-catching presentation. You might also ladle it over creamy polenta or even baked sweet potatoes to put a spin on the traditional. Don’t be afraid to get creative and share your gumbo in unexpected but delicious ways!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After enjoying your gumbo, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. It stays fresh and flavorful for 3 to 4 days, making it an excellent option for weekday lunches or cozy dinners when time is short. Just make sure to cool it completely before refrigerating to preserve all those precious flavors.

Freezing

This gumbo freezes beautifully, too. Transfer portions to freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty zip-top bags. Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge for gentle defrosting and retain the dish’s wonderful texture and taste.

Reheating

Reheat your gumbo slowly on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Adding a splash of broth or water can revive its creamy consistency if it thickens too much. If you’re in a hurry, a quick microwave reheat also works well—just cover to avoid drying out.

FAQs

Can I use frozen okra instead of fresh?

Absolutely! Frozen okra works just as well but may take slightly longer to roast and can release a bit more moisture. Just roast it until nicely browned for the best texture. Either way, roasting brings out that fantastic gumbo crunch.

Is this gumbo spicy?

The gumbo has a lovely, balanced heat thanks to the Cajun spices, cayenne, and hot sauce, but it’s flexible. You can easily adjust the spice level by reducing cayenne or hot sauce, making it mild and approachable or full-on fiery according to your taste.

Can I substitute lentils with another type of legume?

While red lentils cook quickly and break down to create that perfect gumbo texture, you can try brown lentils or even small beans like black-eyed peas. Just be aware of cooking times, as they may need to be adjusted in your Instant Pot.

Do I have to make the roux?

The roux is key to thickening the gumbo and adding richness. If you’re short on time, you can skip it, but your gumbo will be thinner. A quick slurry of cornstarch and water is an alternative, but the roux provides unmatched flavor and texture.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Just be sure to use gluten-free flour for the roux, and double-check your spice blends for any hidden gluten. This recipe is thoughtfully designed to be inclusive without compromising on taste.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly special about this Vegan Instant Pot Gumbo with Roasted Okra and Lentils Recipe. It marries tradition with convenience, making it perfect for anyone eager to enjoy bold, comforting flavors without hours in the kitchen. Whether you’re serving family, friends, or just yourself, this recipe will quickly become a beloved staple worth making again and again.