Adele'S New Orleans Style Gumbo
A hearty New Orleans style gumbo packed with shrimp, crab, okra, and smoky roux, perfect for seafood lovers and those craving bold, comforting flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown flour in oil over medium heat to make a very brown roux.
- Lower heat and add chopped onion, garlic, and green onions. Simmer until onions are cooked.
- Add shrimp, crabs, and oysters. Simmer until shrimp turn pink and oysters curl if used.
- Add chopped okra, hot water, crushed bay leaf, salt, pepper, and Tabasco sauce. Cook until done.
- Serve in bowls over boiled rice.
Tips & Substitutions
For a deeper flavor, let the roux cook until it's very dark, almost chocolate in color. If you're out of shrimp, you can substitute with diced chicken or sausage for a different twist. Consider adding your favorite seafood or even using frozen okra if fresh isn't available. Adjust the spice level of the dish by varying the amount of Tabasco sauce to suit your taste.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the gumbo hot over boiled rice for a hearty meal. Consider pairing it with crusty French bread or a side salad for a refreshing contrast. For an extra kick, serve with additional Tabasco sauce on the side. This dish also pairs beautifully with Cajun Shrimp Soup for a complete seafood feast.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water if it thickens too much. Avoid microwaving, as it can alter the texture of the shrimp and oysters.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Adele'S New Orleans Style Gumbo contains roughly 338 calories, with 15g protein, 30g carbohydrates, and 18g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (30% of the Daily Value) and vitamin C (30% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 875mg per serving (38% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this gumbo in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the gumbo a day ahead. It actually allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. Just store it in the refrigerator and reheat gently before serving. However, it's best to add the shrimp and oysters just before serving to maintain their texture.
What can I use instead of crabs?
If crabs are unavailable, you can use more shrimp or even diced fish like catfish or tilapia. Alternatively, you could incorporate sausage for a heartier version, which will still deliver a satisfying flavor profile.
Is it necessary to include okra?
Okra adds a unique flavor and helps thicken the gumbo, but you can omit it if you prefer. For a similar thickening effect, consider using a bit of cornstarch mixed with water or simply increase the amount of roux.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).