Cajun Tofu and Rice Stew

1 large onion
1 bell pepper - whatever color you prefer
1 block tofu - extra firm
1 cup celery sliced
4 cloves garlic minced
1 cup brown rice - dry
1 28 ounce can diced tomatoes
2 -3 t. chili powder
1 1/2 t. thyme (crush as adding to pot)
1 t. salt
1 - 2 t. liquid smoke
crushed red pepper to taste ( I like a lot)
2 T. olive oil
1/2 cup water (if necessary)

Press tofu in a clean dishtowel under a heavy object while you chop veggies. Chop onion, green pepper and celery and sautee in the 2 T of olive oil until lightly browned adding herbs and spices about halfway through (except for liquid smoke). Add tomatoes and deglaze the bottom of the pan and add rice. Dice tofu and stir in pot adding any optional water depending on consistency. Cook for about 45 minute or until rice is done checking consistency and stirring periodically adding additional water as necessary.

Makes 4 generous servings

Number of Servings: 4

Recipe submitted by SparkPeople user LUDDITE0217.