Simple Gumbo Recipe is a delicious and comforting Louisiana dish that can be prepared with minimal effort. This straightforward recipe incorporates ingredients like chicken, sausage, shrimp, and vegetables to create a flavorful and satisfying stew. With a simple sauté of the meats and vegetables, followed by the addition of a dark roux for depth and thickening, this easy gumbo comes together effortlessly. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe allows you to enjoy the authentic flavors of gumbo without the hassle. With its ease of preparation and incredible taste, Easy Gumbo is a go-to option for a hearty and flavorful meal.
Ingredients for Simple Gumbo Recipe
⦁ – 4 tbsp. butter
⦁ – 1/4 c. all-purpose flour
⦁ – 1 small yellow onion
⦁ – 1 medium green bell pepper, chopped
⦁ – 2 celery ribs, chopped
⦁ – 2 cloves garlic, minced
⦁ – 12 oz. andouille sausage, sliced into 1/2″ pieces
⦁ – 1 tbsp. cajun seasoning (without salt)
⦁ – Kosher salt
⦁ – Freshly ground black pepper
⦁ – 1 bay leaf
⦁ – 1 (15-oz.) can fire-roasted diced tomatoes
⦁ – 4 c. low-sodium chicken broth
⦁ – 1 lb. medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
⦁ – 3 green onions, sliced
⦁ – cooked white rice, for serving
Steps to make Simple Gumbo Recipe
Step 1
Begin by melting butter in a large, deep skillet over medium-low heat. Once melted, add the all-purpose flour and stir continuously. Keep stirring until the mixture turns into a rich, dark caramel color, which should take around 10 minutes. This dark roux will add depth and flavor to your gumbo.
Step 2
Next, add the finely chopped onions, peppers, and celery to the skillet. Stir the vegetables until they become softened and aromatic, which should take about 5 minutes. Incorporate the minced garlic and sliced sausage into the mixture, allowing their flavors to meld together. Season the gumbo with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper, adjusting the amounts to your taste preferences. To enhance the flavor profile further, add a bay leaf, fire-roasted diced tomatoes, and chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for approximately 1 hour, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
Step 3
When you’re about 10 minutes away from finishing the cooking process, it’s time to introduce the shrimp. Gently stir in the peeled and deveined medium-sized shrimp, making sure they are evenly distributed in the gumbo. Allow the shrimp to cook until they turn pink and are fully cooked through. Take a moment to taste the gumbo and adjust the seasonings according to your preference. Finally, sprinkle in the sliced green onions, reserving a portion for garnish, and give it a gentle stir.
Step 4
Your Easy Gumbo is now ready to be served! Spoon the flavorful stew over a bed of white rice, allowing the rice to soak up the delicious flavors. For an added touch, garnish the gumbo with a sprinkle of reserved green onions. Enjoy the delightful combination of textures and flavors in this comforting Louisiana dish.
Nutrition Facts
⦁ – Calories: 350 Cal
⦁ – Carbohydrates: 19g
⦁ – Protein: 15g
⦁ – Fat: 24g
⦁ – Saturated Fat: 10g
⦁ – Polyunsaturated Fat: 4g
⦁ – Monounsaturated Fat: 8g
⦁ – Trans Fat: 0g
⦁ – Cholesterol: 105mg
⦁ – Sodium: 860mg
⦁ – Potassium: 350mg
⦁ – Fiber: 3g
⦁ – Sugar: 5g
⦁ – Vitamin A: 520IU
⦁ – Vitamin C: 30mg
⦁ – Calcium: 60mg
⦁ – Iron: 2mg
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Steps to avoid while preparing Simple Gumbo Recipe
1. Avoid rushing the roux: Take your time when making the roux by melting the butter and adding the flour over medium-low heat. Stir continuously and patiently until it reaches a dark caramel color. Rushing this step may result in a burnt or unevenly cooked roux, affecting the flavor and texture of the gumbo.
2. Avoid overcrowding the skillet: When adding onions, peppers, celery, and sausage, make sure not to overcrowd the skillet. Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking and may prevent the vegetables and sausage from properly caramelizing. Cook them in batches if needed.
3. Avoid overcooking the shrimp: When adding shrimp to the gumbo, be cautious not to overcook them. Overcooked shrimp can become tough and rubbery. Cook the shrimp just until they turn pink and are fully cooked through. Overcooking them will affect the overall texture and taste of the dish.
4. Avoid neglecting the seasoning: Seasoning is crucial for a flavorful gumbo. Taste and adjust the seasonings as you go, especially after adding the shrimp. Neglecting to taste and adjust can result in a bland or unbalanced flavor profile. Take the time to ensure the gumbo is properly seasoned to your liking.
5. Avoid skipping the simmering time: The simmering process allows the flavors to meld together and develop a rich taste. Avoid rushing this step and give the gumbo enough time to simmer on low heat for approximately 1 hour. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
FAQ
1. What is gumbo and how do I make an easy version of it?
Gumbo is a popular Louisiana dish known for its rich flavors and variety of ingredients. To make an easy gumbo, you’ll need butter, flour, onions, bell peppers, celery, garlic, andouille sausage, Cajun seasoning, tomatoes, chicken broth, shrimp, green onions, and rice. Here’s a step-by-step recipe to guide you.
2. Can I make gumbo without using meat?
Yes, you can make a vegetarian gumbo by substituting the meat with vegetables like okra, bell peppers, and mushrooms. You can also add extra spices and seasonings to enhance the flavors.
3. Is gumbo a spicy dish?
Gumbo can be spicy, depending on the amount of Cajun seasoning or other spices you use. Adjust the spice level according to your preference by adding more or less seasoning.
4. Can I make gumbo ahead of time?
Yes, gumbo often tastes even better the next day as the flavors have more time to meld together. You can make a large batch of gumbo and store it in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat it gently on the stovetop before serving.
5. What are some common variations of gumbo?
There are various regional and ingredient-specific variations of gumbo. Some popular types include seafood gumbo, chicken and sausage gumbo, and vegetarian gumbo. Each variation may have its own unique combination of ingredients.
6. Can I freeze gumbo?
Yes, gumbo freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to airtight containers or freezer bags. It can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. Thaw the gumbo overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
7. What is the role of roux in gumbo?
Roux is a mixture of fat and flour used as a thickening agent in gumbo. It adds richness and depth of flavor to the dish. In the recipe, you’ll create a roux by cooking butter and flour together until it turns a dark golden brown color.
8. Can I use pre-packaged Cajun seasoning for gumbo?
Yes, pre-packaged Cajun seasoning can be used in gumbo. However, be mindful of the salt content in the seasoning blend, as some brands may contain a high amount. Adjust the amount of additional salt accordingly to avoid an overly salty dish.
9. What are some traditional side dishes served with gumbo?
Gumbo is commonly served with steamed white rice. Cornbread, crusty French bread, or hushpuppies are also popular accompaniments. Serve a side salad or pickles for added freshness and texture.
10. How can I customize gumbo to my taste preferences?
Gumbo is a versatile dish, and you can customize it based on your preferences. You can add additional vegetables like okra, corn, or carrots. You can also experiment with different meats, such as chicken, turkey, or even duck. Adjust the seasonings, spices, and spice level to suit your taste buds.