Dive into the heart of Cajun cuisine with our irresistible Shrimp and Sausage Gumbo! This rich and flavorful dish is a true celebration of southern cooking, combining succulent shrimp and smoky sausage in a savory broth that will transport your taste buds straight to the bayou. Perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in, this gumbo is sure to impress with its bold flavors and comforting warmth. Ready to learn the secrets behind this classic recipe? Let’s get cooking!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 1 hrs
Total Time: 1 hrs 20 mins
Cuisine: Cajun
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 lb smoked sausage, sliced
- 1/2 cup flour
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Green onions for garnish
Instructions
- In a large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, create a dark roux by heating oil and gradually whisking in flour. Stir continuously over medium heat until the mixture turns a deep chocolate-brown color, approximately 15-20 minutes. Be careful not to burn the roux.
- Add chopped onions, bell peppers, and celery (known as the Cajun holy trinity) to the roux. Sauté until vegetables are soft and translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Slowly pour in chicken broth, whisking constantly to prevent lumps from forming. This will create a smooth base for the gumbo.
- Add sliced smoked sausage to the pot and bring the mixture to a simmer. Cook for 30-40 minutes, allowing the flavors to develop and the sausage to infuse the broth.
- Season the gumbo with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
- About 5-10 minutes before serving, add the peeled and deveined shrimp. Cook until shrimp turn pink and are just cooked through, being careful not to overcook.
- Remove from heat and let the gumbo rest for a few minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
- Serve hot in deep bowls, garnished with chopped green onions. Traditionally served over steamed white rice.
Tips
- Master the Roux: The key to a great gumbo is a well-made roux. Stir continuously and keep a close eye on the heat to achieve that perfect deep chocolate color without burning it.
- Use the Holy Trinity: Don’t skip the "holy trinity" of Cajun cooking—onions, bell peppers, and celery. These aromatics form the flavorful base of your gumbo.
- Simmer for Flavor: Allow your gumbo to simmer for at least 30-40 minutes. This step is crucial for developing the rich flavors that make gumbo so delicious.
- Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Add the shrimp towards the end of cooking and only let them cook until they turn pink. Overcooked shrimp can become tough and rubbery.
- Garnish Generously: Finish your gumbo with a sprinkle of fresh green onions for a burst of color and flavor. Serve it over fluffy white rice for a complete meal!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 28g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Cholesterol: 250mg
