There’s something magical about the aroma of gumbo simmering away in the kitchen. It wafts through the house like a warm hug, reminding us of those cozy family gatherings. Lately, this dish has been making waves on TikTok and Pinterest, and it’s no wonder! Who doesn’t love a one-pot wonder that tastes like love?
This traditional meal blends shrimp, crab, and smoky andouille sausage for a flavor explosion. Picture a rich, dark roux, the holy trinity of veggies, and perhaps a little okra to bring it all together. It’s like your grandma’s version, but with fewer steps! Full details in the blog!
Enjoy a rich gumbo packed with flavors from shrimp, crab, and andouille sausage. This traditional gumbo recipe cajun creole features the perfect blend of seafood gumbo shrimp crab andouille with authentic seasonings. It’s a hearty and satisfying meal that embodies classic Louisiana cooking.
Ingredients
Scale
¾ cup 1½ sticks or 170 g unsalted butter
1 cup 125 g all-purpose flour
2 ribs celery roughly chopped about 1 cup
1 large yellow onion roughly chopped about 1 cup
1 large green bell pepper roughly chopped seeds removed about 1 cup
2 teaspoons garlic minced
10 cups 2.41 kg beef broth
1 ring 14 ounces andouille sausage or kielbasa sliced into rounds
1 can 14.5 ounces stewed tomatoes
1 can 6 ounces tomato sauce
2 tablespoons hot sauce
1 tablespoon white sugar
½ teaspoon Cajun seasoning
½ teaspoon dried thyme leaves
4 teaspoons gumbo file powder divided
4 bay leaves
3 pounds uncooked medium shrimp peeled deveined
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
cooked white rice for serving
Instructions
Melt the butter in a large 6-quart pot over medium-low heat and gradually whisk in the flour until smooth, cooking constantly until the roux turns a deep brown color, about 30 to 40 minutes, taking care to avoid burning.
Remove the pot from heat and keep whisking the roux until it cools slightly, then set it aside.
Meanwhile, finely chop the celery, onion, green bell pepper, and garlic using a food processor.
Stir the chopped vegetables into the roux, return the pot to medium-low heat, and cook until the vegetables soften, about 8 to 12 minutes.
Slowly whisk in the beef broth and bring the mixture to a boil, which should take 15 to 20 minutes.
Lower the heat to maintain a simmer and add the sausage, stewed tomatoes, tomato sauce, hot sauce, sugar, Cajun seasoning, dried thyme, and bay leaves, stirring well. Let this simmer uncovered for 45 minutes.
Stir in 2 teaspoons of gumbo filé powder, then continue to simmer for another 15 minutes.
Remove the bay leaves, add the shrimp and Worcestershire sauce, and let cook gently over low heat for 45 to 60 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend.
Finally, mix in the remaining gumbo filé powder and serve the gumbo hot over cooked white rice.
Prep Time:15 minutes
Cook Time:3 hours 10 minutes
Category:Dinner, Main Course
Method:Stovetop
Cuisine:American
Nutrition
Serving Size:1 bowl
Calories:282kcal
Why You’ll Love This Gumbo Recipe
This gumbo recipe is the kind of comfort food that wraps you in a cozy hug, bringing to mind all those wonderful family gatherings you cherish. It’s hearty, flavorful, and best of all, easy to make! You can rely on this one-pot delight as a crowd-pleaser for a casual dinner or a special family occasion.
Easy to Make: While gumbo is often seen as tricky, this recipe makes it approachable even for the newest cooks. It’s more about patience and love than technique!
Flavorful Layers: Each ingredient, from the rich roux to the shrimp and sausage, blends to create a symphony of flavors. You’ll savor every spoonful.
Perfect for Batch Cooking: This dish is freezer-friendly, so you can prepare a big batch and enjoy cozy meals throughout the week. Nothing says “I love you” like a bowl of homemade gumbo waiting in your freezer!
Key Ingredients & Tools
Having the right ingredients and tools makes all the difference in crafting this delicious meal. Here’s what you’ll need:
Roux: Don’t shy away from the butter and flour! This is where the magic begins.
Holy Trinity: The classic trio of celery, onion, and bell pepper is essential for authentic flavor.
Andouille Sausage & Shrimp: The real stars of the dish! They add bold flavors and heartiness.
Cooking Pot: A large 6-quart pot gives everything enough room to mingle perfectly.
Simple Steps to Make It
Now, let’s roll up those sleeves! Making traditional gumbo at home is easier than it sounds. Follow these straightforward steps:
In a large pot, melt the butter over medium-low heat. Gradually whisk in the flour until smooth and cook until it turns a deep brown, about 30-40 minutes. Don’t rushthis step builds the deep flavor!
While the roux cools, process the chopped celery, onion, bell pepper, and garlic until finely chopped. Add this vegetable mixture to the roux and stir well.
Gradually whisk in the beef broth and bring to a boil. Add the sliced sausage, tomatoes, tomato sauce, hot sauce, sugar, Cajun seasoning, thyme, and bay leaves.
Simmer uncovered for 45 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
Finally, stir in the shrimp and Worcestershire sauce, cooking for another 45-60 minutes. This is when the flavors truly meld!
Easy Customizations
Your gumbo can be as unique as your family! Here are some fun twists and swaps:
Add Okra: For a classic touch, toss in chopped okra during cooking to thicken and add flavor.
Spice Level: Want more heat? Add extra hot sauce or Cajun seasoning to kick up the spice!
Seafood Swap: Feeling adventurous? Substitute crab or a mix of seafood for an extra coastal vibe.
Serving, Storage & Reheating
Your gumbo is ready to shine! Follow these helpful tips for serving, storing, and reheating:
Serve it Right: Ladle the gumbo over a bed of cooked white rice for the perfect pairing. A sprinkle of green onions on top adds a lovely touch!
Freezing Tip: Let the gumbo cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. It keeps well for up to three months.
Reheat Gently: When ready to enjoy again, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop over low heat to preserve all the flavors.
Cooking Time Overview
Time
Roux Preparation
30-40 minutes
Vegetable Preparation
10 minutes
Simmering Time
1 hour 15 minutes
Total Cooking Time
Over 3 hours
This traditional gumbo recipe is crafted to nourish both body and soul. Gather your loved ones, get cozy in the kitchen, and let the aromas transport you to those cherished family moments. Happy cooking!
Expert Says
Gumbo is a dish that beautifully combines flavors and textures, largely thanks to the Maillard reaction during browning of meats and vegetables. This not only enhances flavor but also improves nutrient absorption, making gumbo a satisfying addition to your table when prepared thoughtfully.
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The Road to My Family’s Favorite Gumbo
This gumbo recipe took a few too many attempts to perfect, but every pot was a valuable lesson. From over-seasoning to forgetting the okra, each “oops” brought me closer to the rich, smoky flavor my family loves. Now, it’s the cozy dish that reminds us of home and the love we share around the table.
FAQs ( Gumbo )
What is the “Holy Trinity” in gumbo?
The “Holy Trinity” refers to the essential base of bell peppers, onions, and celery used in many Cajun and Creole dishes. In this recipe, it forms the aromatic foundation that enhances the overall depth and flavor of the dish. Always finely chop these vegetables for the best results.
How can I make this gumbo spicy?
Add cayenne pepper, hot sauce, or diced jalapeños to increase the heat. Start with a small amount and adjust according to your taste preference. Remember, it’s easier to add heat than to take it away, so proceed slowly!
Can this gumbo be made ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, letting the flavors develop overnight enhances the taste. Simply prepare the dish, let it cool, and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, reheat gently on the stove.
What should I serve with gumbo?
This meal is traditionally served over white rice. Consider adding cornbread or a fresh green salad for a complete meal. For a kick of flavor, a side of pickled vegetables can also enhance the experience.
How do I store leftover gumbo?
Store leftover gumbo in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze it in portion-sized containers. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to enjoy at a later time.
Conclusion
And there you have it, my friend! This easy homemade gumbo is the perfect comfort dish. It takes some time to develop those deep flavors, but the rich aroma and warm satisfaction that fill your home make it worthwhile. You’ll love how it turns out, especially when served over fluffy ricewarm hearts guaranteed around your dinner table!
Feeling adventurous? Try folding in some fresh spinach for an extra pop of color, or a squeeze of lemon juice for a zesty lift. Remember, this gumbo freezes beautifully! Just be sure to let it cool completely before storing; a quick reheat is a lifesaver on busy nights.
I’d love to hear how your gumbo turns out! Did you grow up with something like this? Snap a photo and share your stories in the comments. Recipes like this are meant to be savored, shared, and cherished. Feel free to save or share this recipe with loved ones who deserve a cozy meal too!
Sharing a handpicked collection of easy, healthy recipes made in our family kitchen. Rachel brings comforting classics, while Emily adds fresh, modern ideas together creating meals that are simple, flavorful, and family-friendly.
