Okra Gumbo Freezer Mix

Cook: 120 min Serves: 6 Cuisine: Southern

A hearty and flavorful okra gumbo freezer mix with tender okra, savory vegetables, and spiced tomato sauce, perfect for quick, delicious Southern-inspired meals anytime.

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Ingredients

  • 22 c. sliced okra
  • 6 c. onion, chopped
  • 1 1/2 c. celery, chopped
  • 2 c. green pepper, chopped
  • 1 (15 oz.) can tomato sauce
  • 2 Tbsp. salt
  • 1 Tbsp. cracked black pepper
  • 5 bay leaves

Instructions

  1. Combine all ingredients in two 13 x 9 x 2-inch baking pans.
  2. Cover and bake at 300°F for 2 hours or until okra is tender, stirring once after 1 hour.
  3. Cool completely.
  4. Spoon mixture into 1-pint freezer containers.
  5. Label and freeze.

Tips & Substitutions

For a more robust flavor, consider adding a dash of hot sauce or smoked paprika. If you don't have fresh okra, frozen sliced okra works well too. Substitute bell peppers with poblano or jalapeño for a spicier kick. This mix can also be enhanced with cooked sausage or shrimp if you prefer a meatier gumbo.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this gumbo mix over white rice or alongside cornbread for a comforting meal. It pairs beautifully with Southern Pea Salad for a refreshing contrast. You can also garnish with fresh parsley or green onions for added flavor. Pair it with a side of Vegetable Dip For Chips for a delightful appetizer.

Storage & Reheating

After preparing the gumbo mix, ensure it cools completely before transferring to 1-pint freezer containers. Seal tightly and label with the date. It can be stored in the freezer for up to six months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then heat on the stove over medium heat until warmed through.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Okra Gumbo Freezer Mix contains roughly 932 calories, with 18g protein, 145g carbohydrates, and 41g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (193% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (100% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (66% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2482mg per serving (108% of the Daily Value).

932 kcal 47% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 18.1g 36% DV
Total Fat 40.8g 52% DV
Carbs 144.7g 53% DV
Fiber 28g 100% DV
Sugar 18.6g 37% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 2482.5mg 100% DV
Potassium 1230.4mg 26% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 267mcg 30% DV
Vitamin C 59.3mg 66% DV
Calcium 757.9mg 58% DV
Iron 34.8mg 100% DV
Diet fit High-fiber

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 add meat to this gumbo mix?

Absolutely! You can add cooked sausage, chicken, or shrimp to the gumbo mix for a heartier dish. Just add the meat during the last 30 minutes of baking to keep it tender and flavorful.

How long can I freeze this gumbo mix?

This gumbo mix can be frozen for up to six months. Just make sure to label your containers with the date to keep track of freshness, and always thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

What can I serve with okra gumbo?

Okra gumbo is delicious served over steamed rice, but it also pairs well with cornbread or crusty bread. For a refreshing side, consider serving it with Southern Pea Salad to complement the rich flavors of the gumbo.

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).

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