Gumbo is a New Orleans treat that is hard to match. Due to National Gumbo Day approaching fast (yes, it’s a thing!), this Sunday, October 12 to be exact, I have complied some recipes to try if you can’t make it to the soulful NOLA.
Before you begin, know that there are two types of Gumbo, and that it is a Creole dish, not a Cajun one. Type one is based on okra the African vegetable, and two, is thickened with gumbo file, which is powdered sassafras leaves, which has a Native American descent. Both types need a roux base which has oil rather than butter, and flour cooked until it’s dark brown. It is also necessary to have onion, celery, and bell pepper; everything else is up to the chef, but shrimp, crawdads, alligator, Andouille sausage, and chicken are common ingredients. Some famous and noted Gumbo chefs are Leah Chase and Paul Prudhomme.
1) Chicken-Andouille Gumbo with Roasted Potatoes
5) Turkey Gumbo
6) James Trahan’s Seafood Gumbo
7) Super Quick Vegetable Gumbo
8) Bobby Flay’s Gumbo with Crispy Okra
9) Slow Cooker Sausage and Shrimp Gumbo
Although I advise you experience the real thing one day, trying out one of these at home is a good alternative in the mean time. Good luck and happy cooking!
For More info on Gumbo you can visit GumboCooking.com
Background info c/o Ken Albala.
