Authentic Seafood Gumbo Recipe: A Hearty Louisiana Classic
Dive into the rich flavors of Louisiana with this Authentic Seafood Gumbo, a hearty stew that combines the freshest seafood with a savory roux and aromatic vegetables. Perfect for family gatherings or cozy dinners, this easy-to-follow recipe brings the essence of Cajun cuisine right to your kitchen. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner, this Seafood Gumbo is sure to impress!
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 celery stalk, chopped
- 1 yellow onion, chopped (plus 1 tablespoon minced onion)
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic (plus 1 teaspoon minced garlic)
- 2 bay leaves
- 8 cups chicken stock or 3 cans chicken broth
- 16 oz whole tomatoes with liquid or 2 large tomatoes, diced
- 1 pound sliced okra
- 1 cup cooked chicken, chopped
- 1 pound lump crabmeat (or crab legs)
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon gumbo file powder
- 4 smoked sausages, sliced
- Dash of Worcestershire sauce
Preparation
In a heavy Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the flour and stir continuously until the mixture darkens to a rich peanut butter brown, creating a roux. This step is key to achieving the gumbo’s signature flavor and thickness.
Add the chopped celery, onion, green bell pepper, parsley, and garlic to the roux. Sauté until the vegetables are tender and fragrant, about 5-7 minutes.
Whisk in the chicken stock, chopped tomatoes, sliced sausages, and okra. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for 2 1/2 hours, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.
About 10 minutes before serving, add the cooked chicken, crabmeat, and shrimp. Stir in the gumbo file powder and a dash of Worcestershire sauce for an extra layer of flavor. Simmer until the seafood is heated through.
Serve this Authentic Seafood Gumbo hot, garnished with additional parsley if desired. Pair it with steamed rice or crusty bread for a complete meal that’s sure to satisfy!
Enjoy this taste of Louisiana in every spoonful!
