traditional new orleans gumbo recipe

Written BySheba G Updated On
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The Best traditional new orleans gumbo recipe

Traditional New Orleans Gumbo Recipe is a classic dish that has been passed down through generations. It’s a hearty stew made with a combination of ingredients including meat, seafood, and vegetables, all cooked in a rich and flavorful broth. The dish is typically served over rice and is a staple in many New Orleans households.

I’ve been making this recipe for years and it’s always a hit with my family and friends. The best part about this recipe is that it’s incredibly versatile – you can customize it to your taste by adding or subtracting ingredients. One of the key techniques to making a great gumbo is to use a roux, which is a mixture of flour and fat that’s used to thicken the broth.

This gives the gumbo its signature thick and rich texture. I love using this recipe for special occasions like holidays and family gatherings because it’s easy to make ahead of time and can be reheated as needed. Plus, it’s a great way to use up any leftover ingredients I have on hand.

My kids love helping me make this recipe because it’s fun to get hands-on and mix everything together. We always have so much fun cooking together as a family and this recipe never fails to bring us all together. My family loves this recipe so much that we even have a special ‘gumbo night’ where we make it together as a family event.

It’s just one of those recipes that never gets old, no matter how many times we make it.

Traditional New Orleans Gumbo

4.5 from 1651 votes

A hearty and flavorful stew originating from New Orleans, featuring a rich roux, the holy trinity of vegetables, and a variety of meats and seafood. This recipe is a must-try for any occasion.

Prep Time25 mins
Cook Time1 hr 30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time2 hrs
Servings: 6-8Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 450 kcal

🥘Ingredients

Meat and Seafood

1 lb andouille sausage, sliced
1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 lb crab meat

Vegetables

1 large onion, chopped
1 large bell pepper, chopped
2 celery stalks, chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
2 cups chopped okra

Roux and Seasonings

1/2 cup vegetable oil
3/4 cup all-purpose flour
2 tsp paprika
2 tsp dried thyme
2 tsp dried oregano
2 bay leaves
1 tsp salt
1 tsp black pepper
1 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)

For Serving

Cooked white rice
Green onions, chopped
Hot sauce (optional)

👨‍🍳Directions

1In a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot, heat vegetable oil over medium heat.
2Add flour and stir constantly until it reaches a dark brown color, similar to chocolate.
3This process should take about 20-25 minutes.
4Be careful not to burn the roux.
5Once the roux is dark brown, add onion, bell pepper, and celery (the holy trinity).
6Cook, stirring frequently, for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are softened.
7Add garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute.
8Stir in paprika, thyme, oregano, bay leaves, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using).
9Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
10Add andouille sausage and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned.
11Add chicken pieces and cook for another 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is no longer pink on the outside.
12Pour in diced tomatoes (with juice) and 6 cups of water.
13Stir well to combine.
14Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 45 minutes, stirring occasionally.
15Add okra and cook for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the okra is tender.
16Add shrimp and crab meat, stirring to combine.
17Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, until the shrimp turn pink and are cooked through, and the crab meat is heated through.
18Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
19Serve the gumbo hot over cooked white rice, garnished with chopped green onions and hot sauce (if desired).

🔧Equipment

Large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot
Wooden spoon
Measuring cups and spoons

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 450 kcal🧈Total Fat: 25g💛Saturated Fat: 8g❤️Cholesterol: 150mg🧂Sodium: 1200mg🌾Total Carbs: 25g🥦Dietary Fiber: 3g🍬Sugars: 5g🥩Protein: 30g

📝Notes

Tips: To make this recipe vegetarian, omit the meat and seafood, and add more vegetables like sliced mushrooms, zucchini, and sweet potatoes.

This traditional New Orleans Gumbo Recipe is perfect for any occasion whether its just an everyday meal or an special gathering with friends or family alike.

Its rich flavor makes everyone feel full after eating without feeling bloated too!

After making this delicious meal at home ,store leftovers by refrigerating them within 2 hours & freezing them later when needed so nothing goes wasted either!

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About New Orleans Gumbo

What is the difference between gumbo and jambalaya?

Gumbo and jambalaya are both popular dishes from Louisiana, but they are quite different. Gumbo is a thick stew made with a combination of ingredients including meat, seafood, and vegetables, while jambalaya is more like a one-pot dish made with sausage, rice, and sometimes seafood or chicken.

What type of meat should I use in my gumbo?

Traditionally, gumbo is made with Andouille sausage or other types of smoked sausage, but you can also use chicken or beef if you prefer. The key is to use high-quality meat that’s flavorful and tender.

How do I make the roux for my gumbo?

To make the roux for your gumbo, you’ll need equal parts of flour and fat (such as oil or butter). Simply melt the fat in a pan over medium heat, then gradually add the flour whisking constantly until the mixture forms a smooth paste.

Can I make gumbo without okra?

While okra is often used in traditional gumbo recipes, you can easily omit it if you don’t have any on hand or if you’re not fond of its slimy texture.

How do I store leftover gumbo?

Leftover gumbo can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days or frozen for up to two months.

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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