Hearty Louisiana Gumbo Stew (Print Version)

Rich Louisiana stew with andouille, chicken, shrimp, and vegetables in a dark roux-based broth served over rice.

# What You'll Need:

→ Proteins

01 - 10 oz andouille sausage, sliced
02 - 14 oz boneless skinless chicken thighs, cut into chunks
03 - 10 oz medium shrimp, peeled and deveined

→ Vegetables

04 - 1 large onion, finely chopped
05 - 1 green bell pepper, diced
06 - 2 celery stalks, diced
07 - 4 garlic cloves, minced
08 - 2 medium tomatoes, diced
09 - 2 scallions, sliced
10 - 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

→ Roux

11 - 1/3 cup vegetable oil
12 - 2/3 cup all-purpose flour

→ Broth & Seasoning

13 - 5 cups chicken or seafood stock
14 - 2 bay leaves
15 - 1 tsp dried thyme
16 - 1-1.5 tsp smoked paprika
17 - 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
18 - 1 tsp salt
19 - 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
20 - 2 tsp Worcestershire sauce
21 - 1 tsp hot sauce

→ To Serve

22 - 2 cups cooked long-grain white rice
23 - Filé powder

# How To Make It:

01 - Prepare all ingredients before starting, as the roux requires constant attention.
02 - Heat oil in a large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Gradually whisk in flour to make the roux. Stir constantly for 15-20 minutes until the mixture turns a deep chocolate brown but is not burnt.
03 - Add onion, bell pepper, and celery. Cook, stirring frequently, for about 5 minutes until softened.
04 - Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
05 - Add sausage and chicken. Sauté for 5 minutes until lightly browned.
06 - Stir in tomatoes, bay leaves, thyme, paprika, cayenne, salt, and black pepper.
07 - Gradually pour in stock while stirring. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 45 minutes, stirring occasionally.
08 - If using shrimp, add during the last 10 minutes of simmering. Cook just until pink and opaque.
09 - Stir in Worcestershire sauce and hot sauce. Adjust seasoning as needed.
10 - Remove from heat. If desired, stir in 1/2-1 tsp filé powder to thicken and add flavor.
11 - Serve hot over cooked rice. Garnish with scallions and parsley.

# Top Tips:

01 -
  • Authentic Flavor: Achieves the deep, smoky, and complex taste of a true Cajun/Creole gumbo.
  • Hearty & Satisfying: A complete, comforting meal packed with protein, vegetables, and served over rice.
  • Customizable: Easily adapted for a classic chicken-and-sausage version or a full seafood gumbo.
02 -
  • Choose the Right Pot: Use a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven for even heat distribution, which is essential for making the roux without burning it.
  • Don't Rush the Roux: Constant stirring over medium heat is the secret to developing its deep brown color and nutty flavor. Patience is key.
  • Mise en Place: Have all your vegetables (the 'holy trinity') chopped and ready. Once the roux is at the perfect color, the cooking process moves quickly.
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