Roux:

• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour

Vegetables:

• 1 medium onion, diced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced

Other Ingredients:

• 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 2 cups sliced okra (fresh or frozen)
• 1 (15-ounce) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 (15-ounce) can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
• 2 bay leaves
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Cooked white rice for serving
• Sliced green onions and chopped fresh parsley for garnish