Description
Craving a comforting, flavorful dish that feels like a warm Southern hug? This Louisiana Seafood Gumbo is exactly what your soul needs. Packed with shrimp, crab, smoky andouille sausage, and tender okra in a dark, rich roux-based broth, it’s the perfect fusion of Cajun and Creole traditions. Whether you’re searching for easy dinner ideas, quick meal prep for the week, or a healthy comfort food that doesn’t skimp on flavor, this gumbo is it. The layers of savory spices, herbs, and slow-cooked goodness create a deeply satisfying dish ideal for cozy nights or festive gatherings.
This easy recipe transforms simple ingredients into something magical, making it a favorite for anyone who loves bold, soulful food. It’s hearty, deeply seasoned, and endlessly adaptable. Serve it up with rice and crusty bread and let your taste buds dance!
Ingredients
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1/2 lb lump crab meat (optional)
- 1/2 lb andouille sausage, sliced
- 1 cup okra, sliced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 (14 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 6 cups seafood or chicken stock
- 3 tbsp Cajun or Creole seasoning
- 2 bay leaves
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Hot sauce, to taste (optional)
- 1/4 cup chopped parsley
- 1/2 cup chopped green onions
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
For the Roux:
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
For Serving:
- Cooked white rice
- French bread or cornbread (optional)
Instructions
- Heat vegetable oil in a large Dutch oven over medium heat. Slowly whisk in flour to make a roux.
- Stir continuously for 20–30 minutes until the roux turns a deep brown (like chocolate).
- Add onion, bell pepper, and celery to the roux. Sauté for 5–7 minutes, then stir in garlic.
- Add sausage and cook until lightly browned. Mix in tomatoes, Worcestershire, seasoning, thyme, bay leaves, salt, and pepper.
- Pour in the stock gradually, stirring constantly. Add okra and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 30–40 minutes.
- Add shrimp and crab meat. Cook for another 10 minutes until shrimp are opaque.
- Taste and adjust seasoning. Add hot sauce if desired.
- Remove bay leaves. Serve over cooked white rice. Garnish with parsley and green onions.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour