Gumbo Recipe
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This Gumbo recipe is packed with flavor and easy to make, perfect for a cozy meal that feels like a hug in a bowl. You’ll love how the rich roux and tender meats come together to create a dish that’s hearty and satisfying, with a touch of Cajun spice that warms you up. The mix of okra, shrimp, and sausage adds layers of texture and taste, making every bite exciting. Plus, it’s a great way to bring a taste of Louisiana to your kitchen, even if you’ve never visited. Finally, it’s a crowd-pleaser, whether you’re cooking for family or friends.
Recipe
Gumbo is a flavorful and hearty dish originating from Louisiana, blending Creole and Cajun influences. This rich stew features a dark roux, tender meat, and the “holy trinity” of vegetables—bell peppers, onions, and celery—for a deep, savory taste.
Ingredients:
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 lb chicken thighs, diced
- 1 lb smoked sausage, sliced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 tsp thyme
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp cayenne pepper
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined (optional)
- 2 tbsp chopped parsley
- Cooked rice, for serving
Instructions:
- Make the roux: Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook, stirring constantly, until dark brown (about 20 minutes).
- Sauté meats: Add chicken and sausage to the roux, cooking until browned. Remove and set aside.
- Cook vegetables: Add onion, bell pepper, celery, and garlic to the pot. Sauté until softened (5 minutes).
- Simmer: Return meats to the pot. Pour in broth, tomatoes, thyme, paprika, cayenne, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 45 minutes.
- Add shrimp: Stir in shrimp and cook for 5 minutes until opaque. Discard bay leaf.
- Serve: Garnish with parsley and serve over rice.
Notes:
- For a thicker gumbo, simmer longer.
- Adjust cayenne for desired spiciness.
- Okra or filé powder can be added for authenticity.
Time:
Prep: 20 minutes
Cook: 1 hour 10 minutes
Serving: 6-8
Nutrition
Gumbo is a hearty dish packed with a variety of ingredients, offering a mix of essential nutrients. Here’s a breakdown of its nutritional content per serving:
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350 kcal |
| Protein | 20 g |
| Carbohydrates | 25 g |
| Fat | 15 g |
| Fiber | 4 g |
| Sodium | 800 mg |
What To Serve With It
I love pairing my gumbo with fluffy white rice or a slice of crusty French bread to soak up all that rich flavor. For a revitalizing drink, I often go with sweet iced tea or a cold beer to balance the dish’s bold spices. Don’t forget a simple side salad or some steamed greens to round out the meal!
Side Dishes
When pairing side dishes with gumbo, I always think about balancing flavors and textures to make the meal feel complete. Gumbo, with its rich creole cuisine roots, pairs perfectly with sides that highlight southern flavors. I love serving it with fluffy white rice, which soaks up the broth beautifully, or a slice of warm, buttery cornbread for a sweet contrast. A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette adds freshness, while pickled okra or coleslaw brings a crunchy, zesty kick. These sides complement the gumbo’s depth without overpowering it, creating a meal that’s hearty and satisfying.
Beverage Pairings
What’s the best way to wash down a steaming bowl of gumbo? I love pairing it with drinks that balance its rich, spicy flavors. Spicy cocktails, like a jalapeño margarita, add a fun kick that complements the heat. If you prefer something non-alcoholic, sweet teas—especially peach or mint—cool your palate without overpowering the dish. A cold beer works, too, but I’d avoid anything too heavy. Personally, I’ll never forget the time I sipped a chilled sweet tea with my grandma’s gumbo—it was perfect. The right drink turns a great meal into an unforgettable one. Cheers to that!
