Embark on a culinary journey to the heart of Southern hospitality with a steaming bowl of Gumbo Soup, a timeless and soulful dish that encapsulates the rich flavors of Creole and Cajun cuisine. At the core of this culinary masterpiece is a meticulously crafted roux, a harmonious blend of oil and flour, which sets the stage for the myriad of ingredients that follow.

As the roux transforms into a deep, chocolate-brown hue, a symphony of aromatics enters the pot—finely chopped onions, diced bell peppers, celery, and minced garlic—sauteing together until a fragrant melody fills the kitchen. The addition of andouille sausage, succulent diced chicken thighs, and plump shrimp adds layers of richness and texture, creating a dynamic interplay of flavors.

Diced tomatoes and sliced okra join the ensemble, infusing the pot with vibrant colors and a delightful medley of tastes. A fragrant broth, seasoned with bay leaves, dried thyme, smoked paprika, and a hint of cayenne pepper, bathes the ingredients, creating a robust and savory base.

As the Gumbo Soup simmers, allowing the flavors to meld and intensify, it transforms into a comforting masterpiece that beckons to be ladled over a bed of fluffy white rice. Garnished with the freshness of chopped green onions and parsley, this Southern classic invites you to savor each spoonful, capturing the essence of a culinary tradition that’s steeped in warmth, flavor, and a dash of Cajun spice.

Whether enjoyed on a cozy evening at home or shared among friends and family, Gumbo Soup stands as a testament to the rich tapestry of Southern cooking—a celebration of diverse influences and a bowlful of comfort that transcends time and borders. So, embrace the spirit of the South and let Gumbo Soup transport you to a place where every bite tells a story of tradition, flavor, and culinary excellence.

Gumbo Soup

Ingredients:

  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil or roux (equal parts flour and oil)
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 1 bell pepper, chopped
  • 2 celery stalks, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 pound (about 450g) smoked sausage, sliced
  • 1 pound (about 450g) chicken thighs, boneless and skinless, diced
  • 1 pound (about 450g) shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 1 teaspoon thyme
  • 1 teaspoon oregano
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 1 cup okra, sliced (fresh or frozen)
  • 1/2 cup green onions, chopped
  • Cooked rice for serving

Instructions:

  1. Make Roux:
    • In a large pot, heat vegetable oil or roux over medium heat until it reaches a dark brown color.
  2. Sauté Vegetables:
    • Add chopped onion, bell pepper, celery, and minced garlic. Sauté until the vegetables are softened.
  3. Add Protein:
    • Add sliced smoked sausage, diced chicken thighs, and shrimp. Cook until the chicken is no longer pink and the shrimp turns pink.
  4. Tomatoes and Sauce:
    • Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and chicken broth.
  5. Season:
    • Add thyme, oregano, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, pepper, and a bay leaf. Stir to combine.
  6. Simmer:
    • Allow the soup to simmer for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  7. Add Okra and Green Onions:
    • Add sliced okra and chopped green onions. Continue simmering for an additional 10-15 minutes.
  8. Serve:
    • Remove the bay leaf and serve the Gumbo Soup over cooked rice.

Nutritional Information (approximate per serving, assuming 6 servings):

  • Calories: Approximately 400-450
  • Protein: 25g
  • Carbohydrates: 20g
  • Dietary Fiber: 3g
  • Sugars: 5g
  • Fat: 25g
  • Saturated Fat: 6g
  • Cholesterol: 120mg
  • Sodium: 1200mg