E Z Gumbo
A quick and flavorful gumbo-inspired dish featuring okra, tomatoes, rice, and shrimp, perfect for a hearty, Southern-style meal that’s easy to prepare on busy days.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine okra, tomatoes, rice, and water in a pot.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 5 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding diced bell peppers or onions to the pot. If you don't have canned okra and tomatoes, fresh okra and diced tomatoes can be used instead. For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some hot sauce. This dish can also benefit from extra seafood, so you might consider adding shrimp from a recipe like Shrimp-Corn-Sausage Toss.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the gumbo hot, garnished with fresh parsley or green onions for a pop of color. It pairs beautifully with crusty bread or over a bed of rice. For a complete meal, consider serving a side salad or a dish like Savory Seafood Bisque. This dish is hearty enough to stand alone but makes a wonderful starter for an American recipes-themed dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, pour the gumbo into a saucepan and warm over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. You can also microwave it in a microwave-safe dish, covering it to prevent splatters. Be sure to add a splash of water if it seems too thick.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of E Z Gumbo contains roughly 157 calories, with 28g protein, 5g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (57% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1283mg per serving (56% 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 vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make this gumbo vegetarian by omitting the shrimp and using vegetable broth instead of water. You can also add more vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms to enhance the flavors and textures.
How can I thicken the gumbo?
If you prefer a thicker gumbo, you can mash some of the okra or add a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with water to the pot while simmering. Another option is to let it simmer longer to reduce the liquid naturally.
What can I substitute for Spanish rice?
If you don't have Spanish rice, you can use regular white rice or even brown rice. Just cook it separately and add it to the gumbo at the end or mix it in during the cooking process, adjusting the water accordingly.
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).