Simple Seafood Gumbo
A hearty and flavorful seafood gumbo featuring shrimp, crab, and okra in a rich tomato-based broth, perfect for comforting gatherings and seafood lovers alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine beef stock, tomatoes, tomato paste, and bay leaf in a large saucepan.
- Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Brown flour in a small amount of oil in a separate saucepan.
- Add chopped celery, onion, and green pepper to the browned flour and cook for 2 minutes.
- Add the okra to the stock mixture.
- Simmer the gumbo for 1 1/2 hours.
- Add the shrimp and cook for an additional 30 minutes.
- Add the crab meat and cook for another 30 minutes.
- Season with salt and pepper and cook for a final 30 minutes.
- Serve the gumbo over rice.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using homemade beef stock or a high-quality store-bought option. If you're out of okra, sliced green beans can be a great substitute. Adjust the seasoning gradually, tasting as you go to achieve the perfect balance. This gumbo can be made spicier by adding cayenne pepper or hot sauce, similar to variations found in American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the gumbo over cooked rice for a filling meal. Pair it with crusty bread or a light salad to balance the richness. A sprinkle of fresh parsley or green onions on top adds a nice touch. This dish pairs beautifully with sides like cornbread or collard greens, reminiscent of comfort foods like Minnesota Swedish Meatballs.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover gumbo in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or stock to maintain its consistency. For longer storage, freeze in portions for up to 3 months, ensuring to cool completely before sealing.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Simple Seafood Gumbo contains roughly 450 calories, with 25g protein, 68g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (135% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (82% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (56% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2547mg per serving (111% 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?
Absolutely! Gumbo often tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Prepare it a day in advance, let it cool, and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat gently before serving to enjoy its full flavor.
What other seafood can I use in this gumbo?
You can customize your gumbo with a variety of seafood. Consider adding scallops, clams, or even fish like tilapia or cod. Just be mindful of cooking times; delicate seafood should be added towards the end to avoid overcooking.
Is it possible to make this gumbo vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily adapt this recipe to be vegetarian by using vegetable stock instead of beef stock and omitting the shrimp and crab. You can add more vegetables like bell peppers and mushrooms for added texture and 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).