Laverne'S Shrimp Gumbo
Laverne's Shrimp Gumbo offers a rich, savory blend of seafood and vegetables, perfect for hearty gatherings or a flavorful family meal with a Cajun flair.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Simmer the mixture with onions, bell pepper, celery, hot water, tomato paste, garlic powder, Kitchen Bouquet, Accent, salt, and pepper for 30 minutes.
- Add shrimp and crab meat to the simmering gumbo.
- Serve the gumbo over rice.
- Enjoy with crackers on the side.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding andouille sausage or smoked sausage to the gumbo. You can substitute fresh shrimp with frozen shrimp, just ensure they're thawed before adding. If you prefer a thicker gumbo, incorporate a roux made from equal parts flour and oil. Adjust seasoning based on your taste preferences, especially with salt and pepper.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the gumbo over fluffy white rice for a classic presentation. Pair it with crusty bread or a side of lightly dressed greens for a refreshing contrast. It also goes well with a tangy salad like Lemon Cranberry Salad to balance the richness of the dish. For beverages, consider serving it alongside Holiday Punch Slush for a festive touch.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the gumbo in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. You can also microwave it in short intervals, ensuring it's heated evenly throughout before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Laverne'S Shrimp Gumbo contains roughly 120 calories, with 5g protein, 25g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (63% of the Daily Value), potassium (26% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 736mg per serving (32% 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?
Yes, this gumbo can be made a day ahead, which allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just store it in the refrigerator and reheat it before serving. If you add shrimp, consider adding them during reheating to prevent overcooking.
What if I can't find Kitchen Bouquet?
If Kitchen Bouquet is unavailable, you can substitute it with a combination of soy sauce and a bit of Worcestershire sauce for color and flavor. Alternatively, using a dark soy sauce can also achieve a similar depth without being overly salty.
Is this gumbo spicy?
The recipe as written is not overly spicy, but you can adjust the heat by adding cayenne pepper or hot sauce to your taste. Start with a small amount and gradually increase it. For a milder option, omit any added spice for a flavorful yet gentle dish.
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).