South Carolina Shrimp Gumbo
A flavorful South Carolina shrimp gumbo featuring tender shrimp, smoky bacon, okra, and aromatic vegetables, perfect for a hearty Southern meal enjoyed over rice.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute bacon, onion, bell pepper, and celery until tender.
- Add tomatoes, okra, rice, and bay leaf to the pot.
- Cook for 45 minutes.
- Add shrimp, Tabasco sauce, and salt to taste.
- Cook for an additional 20 minutes.
- Serve over rice with cornbread.
Tips & Substitutions
For a deeper flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper. If you don't have fresh shrimp, thawed frozen shrimp can be used as a substitute. You can also replace okra with green beans for a different texture. To thicken the gumbo, add a roux made from equal parts flour and oil cooked until golden brown.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the gumbo over fluffy white rice or with a side of cornbread for a comforting meal. A light salad or steamed vegetables can complement the dish well. This gumbo pairs beautifully with Aunt Gen'S Barbecue Pork Chops for a complete Southern feast.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent sticking. For optimal flavor, avoid reheating in the microwave, as it can alter the texture of the shrimp.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of South Carolina Shrimp Gumbo contains roughly 592 calories, with 24g protein, 103g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (74% of the Daily Value), protein (47% of the Daily Value), and iron (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2421mg per serving (105% 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, you can prepare the gumbo a day in advance. In fact, the flavors often improve after sitting overnight. Just store it in the refrigerator and reheat it on the stove before serving.
What can I use instead of bacon?
If you're looking for a healthier option, turkey bacon or smoked sausage can be good substitutes. For a vegetarian version, skip the bacon and use olive oil and a dash of liquid smoke for flavor.
Is it necessary to use okra?
While okra adds a unique flavor and thickens the gumbo, it is not essential. You can omit it or replace it with diced zucchini or green beans if you prefer.
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).