Heat oil over low heat in a big soup pot or Dutch oven. When it's hot, add the flour. This is supposed to cook over low heat for about 10 to 15 minutes until it's the color of a copper penny.

Add the chopped onion, peppers, celery, thyme, and garlic. Cook this over low heat for about 30 to 45 minutes. It will be fairly dry; stir frequently. Try not to add any more oil, but if you have to, go ahead.

Saute the okra in a little oil in a separate skillet. When it's done, add to the pot along with the vegetable stock, tomatoes, parsley, bay leaves, tamari, or pick-a-peppa, hot sauce, paprika, salt, and tofu.

Let it come to a boil, then turn down and let simmer 2 to 3 hours. The key to this recipe is low heat and almost constant stirring the first 45 minutes or so. After that, stir when you think of it. After an hour or so, taste and add more salt or a pinch of cayenne.

Serve with a big platter of hot rice, and top with file powder.

(** the software doesn't allow an accent over the "e" in file - this is pronounced "fee-lay"; Zatarain's brand is commonly available in stores all over the country)

From Cookin' Southern Vegetarian Style, by Ann Jackson