Elsie'S Creole Gumbo
Elsie's Creole Gumbo features rich flavors from bacon, okra, tomatoes, and Creole spices, combining seafood and poultry options in a hearty, southern-inspired stew perfect for sharing.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Fry bacon in a large, deep iron skillet or heavy Dutch oven until crispy. Remove bacon and set aside.
- To make the roux, add flour gradually to the bacon grease, stirring constantly until it reaches a medium gravy consistency, no more.
- Discard any excess flour from the roux.
- Cook the roux over medium-high heat, stirring constantly, until it turns a rich dark golden brown, being careful not to burn.
- If the roux gets too thick, add a touch of water or tomato juice to thin it out.
- Add chopped onion and celery to the roux and cook until tender, about 5-7 minutes, adding water gradually to keep it smooth.
- Add okra and chopped fresh tomatoes or canned tomatoes, stirring well.
- Add water to cover all ingredients, then return to simmer and cook until flavors meld, approximately 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce along with the Lea & Perrins. If you don't have frozen okra, fresh or canned okra works too; just adjust cooking time accordingly. To thicken the gumbo, ensure your roux is cooked to a nice dark brown, similar to what you would achieve in classic American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the gumbo hot over a bed of white rice for a traditional presentation. It pairs beautifully with Heart Attack Cheesy Hash Brown Potatoes for a hearty meal. For a complete dinner, consider offering crusty bread or a side salad to balance the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover gumbo can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to maintain consistency. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months; just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Elsie'S Creole Gumbo contains roughly 229 calories, with 7g protein, 29g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (65% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1577mg per serving (69% 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 ahead of time?
Absolutely! Gumbo often tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld. Simply prepare it a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Reheat gently on the stove before serving.
What can I substitute for bacon?
If you're looking for a vegetarian option, you can replace bacon with olive oil or butter for sautéing. For a smoky flavor, consider adding smoked paprika or liquid smoke to mimic that depth of flavor.
How spicy is this gumbo?
The spice level can be adjusted to your taste. Start with a small amount of Louisiana hot sauce and add more as desired. If you're sensitive to heat, consider omitting the hot sauce altogether or using mild Creole spices.
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).