authentic louisiana gumbo recipe

Written BySheba G Updated On
authentic louisiana gumbo recipe
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The Best authentic louisiana gumbo recipe

My family and I have always been huge fans of authentic Louisiana gumbo recipe. It’s a staple in our household, and we love making it for special occasions like holidays and family gatherings.

The dish has a rich history, originating from the Creole cuisine of Louisiana, where it was created by African slaves who combined various ingredients to create a hearty and flavorful stew. The name ‘gumbo’ is derived from the African word ‘ki ngombo,’ which means ‘okra,’ a key ingredient in the dish.

Gumbo is more than just a meal; it’s a cultural symbol that brings people together. When you take your first bite, you’re transported to the warm and vibrant streets of New Orleans, where the aroma of spices and the sound of jazz fill the air.

The flavors are bold and complex, with the perfect balance of spicy heat and savory richness. Whether you’re serving it at a casual dinner or a formal event, gumbo is sure to impress.

As a home cook, I appreciate how versatile this recipe is – you can adjust the spice level, add or subtract ingredients to suit your taste, and still end up with a delicious meal that everyone will love. My kids adore helping me prepare this recipe, learning about the different spices and techniques involved in making a true gumbo.

It’s not just about following a recipe; it’s about sharing love and care in every pot that goes out to our family and friends.

Authentic Louisiana Gumbo

Authentic Louisiana Gumbo

4.6 from 1098 votes

Louisiana gumbo is a hearty stew packed with andouille sausage, chicken, and shrimp, thickened with a roux and served over steamed rice. This recipe is a must-try for any occasion.

Prep Time30 mins
Cook Time2 hours 30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time3 hours
Servings: 8Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 450 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Roux

1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup vegetable oil

For the Gumbo

1 large onion, chopped
1 large bell pepper, chopped
2 stalks celery, chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 lb andouille sausage, sliced
1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
6 cups chicken stock
1 tsp dried thyme
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp cayenne pepper
1 tsp black pepper
1 tsp salt
2 bay leaves
2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
2 tbsp chopped green onions
Hot cooked rice, for serving

Equipment

Large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot
Wooden spoon
Measuring cups and spoons
Cutting board
Sharp knife

👨‍🍳Directions

1In a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat.
2Gradually add the flour, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon to combine.
3Cook, stirring constantly, until the roux turns a dark chocolate color.
4This can take up to 30 minutes.
5Be patient and keep stirring to prevent burning.
6The roux is done when it is very dark and smells nutty.
7Add the onion, bell pepper, and celery to the pot.
8Cook, stirring frequently, until the vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes.
9The vegetables should be translucent and slightly browned.
10Add the garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
11The garlic should be fragrant.
12Add the andouille sausage to the pot and cook, stirring occasionally, until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
13The sausage should be crispy and the edges slightly charred.
14Add the chicken to the pot and cook, stirring occasionally, until browned and cooked through, about 7-10 minutes.
15The chicken should be white throughout with no visible pink.
16Stir in the diced tomatoes, chicken stock, thyme, oregano, paprika, cayenne pepper, black pepper, salt, and bay leaves.
17Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 1 hour, stirring occasionally.
18The gumbo should thicken slightly and the flavors should be well combined.
19Stir in the shrimp and cook until they turn pink and are cooked through, about 3-5 minutes.
20Be careful not to overcook the shrimp, as they can become rubbery.
21Stir in the parsley and green onions.
22Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
23The gumbo should be well seasoned and slightly spicy.
24Serve the gumbo hot over steamed rice.
25Garnish with additional parsley and green onions if desired.
26Enjoy your authentic Louisiana gumbo.

🔧Equipment

Mixing bowl
Measuring cups and spoons
Knife and cutting board
Cooking pan or pot
Spatula or wooden spoon

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 450 kcal🧈Total Fat: 25g💛Saturated Fat: 7g❤️Cholesterol: 120mg🧂Sodium: 1200mg🌾Total Carbs: 25g🥦Dietary Fiber: 2g🍬Sugars: 4g🥩Protein: 25g

📝Notes

Tips: Use a dark roux for a more traditional flavor. Add okra for a thicker gumbo.

I always keep a pot of gumbo simmering on my stovetop during cold winter months when my family needs something comforting.

It’s also perfect for special occasions like birthdays or holidays when we gather around the table for meals together.

After preparing this dish for years now I have noticed that even after storing leftovers in an air-tight container they remain edible for up to five days when reheated properly.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Louisiana Gumbo

Q1: What is gumbo?

Gumbo is a stew-like dish that originated in Louisiana, made with a combination of ingredients such as meat or seafood, vegetables (like okra), rice, and spices.

Q2: What type of meat is traditionally used in gumbo?

The traditional meat used in gumbo is usually either pork or chicken.

Q3: Can I make gumbo without okra?

Yes, you can still make gumbo without okra – simply omit it or substitute with another vegetable like zucchini or carrots.

Q4: Is gumbo spicy?

Gumbo can be made with varying levels of heat depending on your preference – if you like it milder, use less cayenne pepper or omit hot sauce.

Q5: How long does gumbo take to cook?

Gumbo typically takes around 30 minutes to an hour to prepare – however, this time may vary depending on how much prep work you do beforehand.

Hi, I’m Sheba G, the creator behind **Sheba’s Recipe**, where I share my favorite homemade dishes and easy recipes anyone can try. I love experimenting in the kitchen and helping others enjoy simple, flavorful meals with confidence.

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