Vegetarian Jambalaya

In a large pot, heat 1 1/2 teaspoons of the oil over medium heat. Add the onion, celery, and bell pepper and sauté for 5 minutes, or until the vegetables begin to soften. Add the garlic, tomatoes, tomato paste, filé powder (if using), parsley, Tabasco, salt, and water. Cover and simmer for 20 minutes, or until the vegetables are soft. Stir in the beans.

Meanwhile, heat the remaining 1 1/2 teaspoons oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the tempeh and vegetarian sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Add the tempeh and sausage to the tomato mixture and simmer for about 10 minutes, until the flavors are well blended. Adjust the seasonings. Serve over the hot rice.

Excerpted from One-Dish Vegetarian Meals, by Robin Robertson. Copyright 2007, used by permission from The Harvard Common Press http://www.harvardcommonpress.com.