Louisiana Shrimp Gumbo
A hearty Louisiana-style shrimp gumbo loaded with okra, tomatoes, and bold flavors, perfect for seafood lovers and comfort food enthusiasts seeking a spicy, flavorful meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Peel and devein the uncooked shrimp.
- Make a dark roux by cooking flour and oil together.
- Add the shrimp to the roux and cook for a few minutes, stirring constantly, then set aside.
- Smother chopped okra and onions in oil until nearly cooked.
- Add canned tomatoes to the okra and onions.
- Pour in water, then add bay leaf, garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Return the cooked shrimp and roux to the pot, cover, and simmer for 30 minutes.
- Serve the gumbo in bowls over a little rice, with French bread on the side.
Tips & Substitutions
For a deeper flavor, allow the roux to cook until it's a rich chocolate brown, but be careful not to burn it. You can substitute the shrimp with chicken or andouille sausage if desired. If fresh okra is unavailable, frozen okra works just as well, though you might want to adjust cooking time slightly. Explore other seafood recipes to complement your gumbo.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the gumbo hot in bowls over a scoop of rice for a hearty meal. Pair it with crusty French bread for dipping. A side salad can add freshness, and a cold drink like iced tea complements the dish beautifully. For a special touch, consider pairing with Quick Oyster Dressing for a delightful seafood feast.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover gumbo in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. For best results, add a splash of water or broth to maintain moisture during reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Louisiana Shrimp Gumbo contains roughly 2116 calories, with 24g protein, 166g carbohydrates, and 157g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (127% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (70% of the Daily Value), and protein (49% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1379mg per serving (60% 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 gumbo ahead of time?
Yes, gumbo is often even better the next day as the flavors meld. Prepare it a day in advance and let it cool before refrigerating. Reheat gently before serving for optimal taste.
What if I can't find okra?
If okra is unavailable, you can use sliced green beans or even diced zucchini as a substitute. While the texture will differ, it will still add a wonderful vegetable element to your gumbo.
How can I thicken my gumbo?
To thicken gumbo, let it simmer longer to reduce the liquid, or add a bit more roux if needed. A slurry made from cornstarch and water can also be stirred in for extra thickness without altering the flavor.
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).