Vegetarian Gumbo

Heat the oil and butter in a large pot over medium-high heat. Once the butter has melted add in the onion and saute for about 5 minutes, or until they become translucent. Add in the bell pepper, celery and okra and saute for another 5 minutes to soften everything. It’s fine if the onions start to brown. Season with salt and pepper and then add in the garlic last and saute for one minute.

Add in the bay leaf and flour and cook for one minute more. Stir in the beer and cook until the liquid has reduced by half. Now add the vegetable broth, water, hot sauce, Worcestershire sauce (if using it), nutmeg, paprika and crushed tomatoes. Stir in the greens and bring everything up to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer for at least 15 minutes, or until the greens are fully cooked.

Serve by itself, or you can ladle it over rice or cornbread.

This recipe can be made a day ahead and just heated up before serving. The longer the flavors have to mix together the better.