Vegan and Gluten Free Étouffée

Name: Vegan and Gluten Free Étouffée
Ingredients: 1 lb medium-firm tofu; 1 green pepper, diced, seeds removed; 1 yellow onion, diced; 2 small zucchini, sliced in half moons; 10 ounces portobello mushrooms, chopped; 3 celery stalks, diced; 1 cup crushed tomatoes in juice; 2 cups vegetable broth; 1/4 cup gluten free flour; 6 tablespoons olive oil; 5 garlic cloves, minced; 10 dashes hot sauce; 1 teaspoon thyme; 3/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/2 teaspoon paprika; 1/2 teaspoon cayenne * start with 1/4 tsp if sensitive to heat; 3-5 drops liquid smoke, optional; 1/4 cup scallions, chopped finely, optional for serving; 3 cups cooked brown rice, optional for serving