This authentic wild turkey gumbo recipe is a delicious and hearty dish that brings together the flavors of the American South. Made with tender and succulent wild turkey meat, simmered with a medley of vegetables and aromatic spices, this gumbo is a perfect comfort food for any occasion. The rich and flavorful broth, thickened with a dark roux, complements the tender turkey meat perfectly. Serve this gumbo over steamed rice for a satisfying and wholesome meal that will warm you up from the inside out.
Ingredients
- 1 wild turkey breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 cup diced onion
- 1 cup diced celery
- 1 cup diced bell pepper
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup okra, sliced
- 1 can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 4 cups chicken or turkey broth
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 4 cups cooked rice, for serving
- Chopped green onions, for garnish
Directions
- Heat vegetable oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
- Add the diced onion, celery, and bell pepper. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and sliced okra. Cook for an additional 2 minutes.
- Push the vegetables to one side of the pot and add the turkey pieces. Cook until browned on all sides.
- In a separate small pot, make a roux by combining the flour and vegetable oil. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the roux turns a dark brown color, about 10-15 minutes.
- Add the roux to the pot with the turkey and vegetables. Stir well to combine.
- Add the diced tomatoes, chicken or turkey broth, Cajun seasoning, dried thyme, dried oregano, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine.
- Bring the gumbo to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Simmer uncovered for 1 to 1 1/2 hours, stirring occasionally.
- Taste and adjust seasonings if necessary.
- Serve the wild turkey gumbo over cooked rice, garnished with chopped green onions.
Interesting Facts
Gumbo is a traditional dish from Louisiana, typically made with a mixture of meat or seafood, vegetables, and a thickener like roux or okra.
The word 'gumbo' is derived from a West African word for okra, which is often used as a thickening agent in the dish.
Wild turkey meat is leaner and more flavorful than domestic turkey meat, making it a great choice for gumbo.
The dark roux used in this recipe adds a deep and rich flavor to the gumbo.
Gumbo is often served at festive occasions and gatherings in the American South.