Gumbo with Andouille Sausage and Seafood
Ingredients:
- 60 ml (1/4 cup) vegetable oil
- 70 g (1/2 cup) all-purpose flour
- 450 g (1 lb) Andouille sausage, sliced
- 1 medium onion, chopped (approx. 150 g or 1 cup)
- 1 bell pepper, chopped (approx. 120 g or 1 cup)
- 2 celery stalks, chopped (approx. 100 g or 1 cup)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1.5 liters (6 cups) chicken broth
- 400 g (14 oz) canned tomatoes, drained
- 2 bay leaves
- 2 tsp (10 g) Cajun seasoning
- 350 g (3/4 lb) shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 300 g (2/3 lb) crabmeat
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
- Cooked white rice for serving
- Green onions and parsley, chopped, for garnish
Cooking Time:
Total estimated time: 2 hours 30 minutes
Instructions:
Step 1: Make the Roux
In a large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Gradually add the flour, constantly stirring with a wooden spoon until it turns a chocolate-brown color, about 20 minutes. This roux forms the flavorful base of your gumbo.
Step 2: Sauté the Holy Trinity
Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and celery to the roux. Cook until the vegetables are soft, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
Step 3: Build the Flavor
Add the sliced Andouille sausage to the pot and cook until browned. Stir in the chicken broth, gradually to prevent lumps, followed by the drained tomatoes, bay leaves, and Cajun seasoning. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let simmer, uncovered, for 45 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Step 4: Incorporate Seafood
Add the shrimp and crabmeat to the pot. Cook until the shrimp are pink and opaque, about 5-7 minutes. Adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper as needed. Discard the bay leaves.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Serve your gumbo hot over cooked white rice, garnished with chopped green onions and parsley for a fresh finish. Savor every flavorful bite of this comforting dish.
Conclusion
Congratulations on crafting a flavorful pot of gumbo! This dish is more than just a meal; it’s a tradition steeped in rich history and culture. With each spoonful, you’re transported to New Orleans’ vibrant streets, full of jazz and joyous celebrations. Mastery of this recipe means you have a treasured addition to your culinary repertoire. Share this gumbo with loved ones for gatherings filled with love, spirit, and happiness. Bon appétit!
