Dive into a bowl of comfort with Lew's Gumbo Du Monde, a dish that transports you straight to the heart of Cajun country! This rich and flavorful gumbo is not just a meal; it's an experience that brings together the perfect blend of spices, succulent shrimp, and smoky sausage. With just 20 minutes of prep time and an hour of simmering goodness, you'll be savoring each spoonful in no time. Are you ready to impress your family and friends with this culinary masterpiece? Let’s get cooking!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 1 hrs
Total Time: 1 hrs 20 mins
Cuisine: Cajun
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1/2 cup flour
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 2 stalks celery, chopped
- 1 lb smoked sausage, sliced
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups okra, sliced
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large heavy-bottomed pot, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Gradually add flour, stirring constantly to create a dark roux. Cook the roux, continuously stirring, until it reaches a deep chocolate-brown color, about 15-20 minutes. Be careful not to burn the mixture.
- Add chopped onions, bell peppers, and celery to the roux. Sauté the vegetables until they become soft and translucent, approximately 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the sliced smoked sausage and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, allowing the sausage to release its flavors into the mixture.
- Pour in the chicken broth, stirring to combine and prevent any lumps from forming. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Add sliced okra, Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Reduce heat to low and let the gumbo simmer for 45-50 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- About 5 minutes before serving, add the peeled and deveined shrimp. Cook until the shrimp turn pink and are just cooked through.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Remove from heat and let stand for 5 minutes before serving.
- Serve hot over steamed rice in deep bowls, garnishing with fresh chopped parsley if desired.
Tips
- Master the Roux: The key to a great gumbo lies in the roux. Stir continuously and keep a close eye on the color; aim for a deep chocolate brown for the best flavor. Patience is essential!
- Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh shrimp and okra whenever possible. Fresh ingredients will enhance the overall taste and texture of your gumbo.
- Customize Your Spice: Adjust the Cajun seasoning according to your spice tolerance. If you prefer a milder flavor, start with less and add more as needed.
- Let It Simmer: Allow the gumbo to simmer gently for the full time to develop deep, rich flavors. The longer it simmers, the better it gets!
- Serve with Style: For an authentic touch, serve your gumbo over fluffy steamed rice and garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 352kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: mg
