Ham Gumbo
A hearty Southern-inspired gumbo featuring smoky bacon, savory ham, and tender okra, perfect for comforting meals and friends gathering around a flavorful bowl.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Lightly brown bacon; tear into pieces.
- Lightly brown onion.
- Add all ingredients and simmer for about 10 minutes.
- Cook mixture until okra is tender, about 15 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a deeper flavor, consider adding spices like cayenne pepper or thyme. If okra isn't available, you can substitute with frozen okra or even diced zucchini for a different texture. To make it heartier, add cooked rice or beans. If you want a smoky taste, try using smoked ham instead of regular.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Ham Gumbo with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or green onions on top for added color and flavor. It pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or cornbread to soak up the delicious broth. For a complete meal, consider serving a simple side salad or coleslaw to balance the richness of the gumbo.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also microwave it in a covered dish but be cautious not to overheat, as this can affect the texture of the okra.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ham Gumbo contains roughly 168 calories, with 8g protein, 8g carbohydrates, and 12g fat. It is a good source of protein (16% of the Daily Value) and vitamin C (11% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 684mg per serving (30% 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 use different types of meat in this gumbo?
Absolutely! While this recipe uses diced cooked ham, you can substitute with sausage or even shredded chicken. For a vegetarian version, omit the meat and add more vegetables like bell peppers and mushrooms.
What if I don't like okra?
If you're not a fan of okra, you can leave it out entirely or replace it with green beans or diced bell peppers. This will change the texture slightly, but the dish will still be flavorful.
How can I make this gumbo spicier?
To add heat, consider incorporating cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños when you're cooking the onions. You can also serve it with hot sauce on the side for those who enjoy a spicier kick.
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).