Southern Shrimp & Sausage Gumbo
This Southern Shrimp & Sausage Gumbo is a comforting dish filled with juicy shrimp, smoky sausage, and tender chicken, all simmered in a thick, aromatic broth.
Ingredients
For the roux
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
For the gumbo
- 1 medium chopped onion
- 1 piece bell pepper
- 2 stalks celery
- 4 cloves minced garlic
- 1 pound sliced smoked sausage
- 1 pound chopped boneless chicken thighs
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon thyme
- 2 pieces bay leaves
- to taste salt and pepper
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley for garnish
- 1 bowl cooked white rice for serving
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large pot, whisk together the flour and oil over medium heat. Keep stirring constantly for about 10 to 15 minutes until the mixture turns a deep brown color, resembling creamy peanut butter.
- Once the roux is ready, stir in the chopped onion, bell pepper, and celery. Cook these vegetables until they’re soft and fragrant, about 5 minutes. Then, toss in the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute.
- Add the sliced sausage and chopped chicken to the pot, sautéing for approximately 5 to 7 minutes until they’re slightly browned.
- Pour in the chicken broth and add the Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, thyme, and bay leaves. Bring the gumbo to a simmer and allow it to bubble gently for about 30 to 40 minutes.
- Finally, add the peeled and deveined shrimp, cooking just until they turn pink.
Serving
- Spoon the gumbo into bowls, serve it over cooked white rice, and garnish with fresh parsley.
Notes
Consider adding your favorite vegetables like okra or tomatoes for added texture and flavor. Adjusting the Cajun seasoning allows you to control the heat. A splash of lemon juice just before serving can brighten up the dish.