Shrimp And Okra Gumbo
A hearty and flavorful gumbo featuring tender shrimp, okra, smoked sausage, and tomatoes, infused with Cajun and Spike seasonings. This dish offers a savory, slightly spicy taste with a rich, thickened broth, perfect for comforting family dinners or gatherings that love bold Southern flavors.
Ingredients
- 1/3 cup canola oil
- 2 pounds frozen okra, chopped or sliced ⓘ
- 1 cup green onions with tops, chopped
- 1 cup onions, chopped ⓘ
- 8 cups cooked rice ⓘ
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning ⓘ
- 2 tablespoons Spike seasoning ⓘ
- 2 quarts chicken stock ⓘ
- 4 large tomatoes, chopped ⓘ
- 1 can stewed tomatoes ⓘ
- 1 pound smoked sausage, cut in small chunks ⓘ
- 1 to 2 pounds small cocktail shrimp ⓘ
Instructions
- In a large skillet, heat canola oil and brown the chopped or sliced okra until tender, about 10 minutes.
- Add chopped onions and chopped tomatoes to the skillet and cook until the onions are translucent.
- In a large pot, combine the cooked okra and vegetable mixture along with the remaining ingredients: cooked rice, Cajun seasoning, Spike seasoning, chicken stock, stewed tomatoes, smoked sausage, and shrimp.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 45 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using fresh okra if available, as it enhances the dish's texture. If you're short on time, you can substitute fresh shrimp with frozen ones; just ensure they are thawed before adding. To adjust spice levels, feel free to modify the amount of Cajun seasoning. Pairing this gumbo with crusty bread can also elevate the meal experience.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this gumbo over cooked rice for a hearty meal. It pairs beautifully with a side of cornbread or a fresh green salad for a refreshing contrast. For a complete experience, consider offering a selection of hot sauces for guests to customize their heat level. This dish also complements well with recipes like Chicken Chip Bake or Gerry'S Chicken With Lime Butter.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of chicken stock to restore moisture. This gumbo can also be frozen for up to 3 months, but it's best to add the shrimp just before serving to maintain their texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Shrimp And Okra Gumbo contains roughly 4290 calories, with 47g protein, 274g carbohydrates, and 340g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (94% of the Daily Value), iron (65% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (57% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% 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 other proteins instead of shrimp?
Absolutely! You can substitute shrimp with chicken or even crab for a different flavor profile. If you choose chicken, ensure it's cooked through before adding it to the gumbo to maintain safety and texture.
What can I do if the gumbo is too thick?
If your gumbo turns out thicker than desired, simply add a little more chicken stock or water while simmering. Stir well until the desired consistency is reached. Adjust the seasoning as needed after adding extra liquid.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, this gumbo actually tastes better the next day as the flavors meld together. You can prepare it a day in advance, store it in the refrigerator, and reheat it gently on the stove before serving.
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).