This Shrimp and Sausage and Chicken Gumbo recipe is a classic Cajun dish that is rich and full of flavor. Made with a combination of succulent shrimp, spicy sausage, and tender chicken, this gumbo is a true comfort food. The thick and flavorful broth is infused with spices and a dark roux, creating a deeply satisfying dish. Serve it over a bed of steamed rice for a complete meal that will warm your soul. Perfect for a family dinner or a gathering with friends.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 onion, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound smoked sausage, sliced
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs, diced
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 4 green onions, sliced
- Cooked rice, for serving
Directions
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
- Add the flour to the pot and cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture turns a dark brown color (similar to the color of milk chocolate). This is the roux and it will add flavor and thickness to the gumbo. This process should take about 15-20 minutes.
- Add the diced onion, bell pepper, celery, and garlic to the pot. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until the vegetables start to soften.
- Add the sliced sausage and diced chicken thighs to the pot. Cook for 5-7 minutes, until the chicken is no longer pink.
- Add the shrimp, chicken broth, diced tomatoes, bay leaves, Cajun seasoning, thyme, oregano, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper to the pot. Stir well to combine.
- Bring the gumbo to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Remove the bay leaves from the gumbo. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
- Serve the gumbo hot over a bed of cooked rice. Garnish with sliced green onions for added freshness and flavor.
Interesting Facts
Gumbo is a traditional Louisiana dish that combines West African, French, Spanish, and Native American influences.
The word 'gumbo' is derived from the West African word for okra, which is often used as a thickening agent in gumbo recipes.
Gumbo is often cooked slowly, allowing the flavors to develop and intensify over time.
While this recipe uses shrimp, sausage, and chicken, gumbo can be made with a variety of proteins, such as seafood, sausage, chicken, or even game meats.
Gumbo is often served at social gatherings and celebrations, bringing people together over a shared love of good food.