Texas-Style Okra Gumbo

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1/2 pound smoked pork sausage, sliced
• 1/2 pound ham, diced
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 1/2 cup celery, chopped
• 1 green bell pepper, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 2 teaspoons Creole seasoning
• 2 (14.5-ounce) cans diced tomatoes
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon hot pepper sauce
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
• 2 pounds fresh okra, sliced
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup cold water

Directions

1. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the sausage, ham, onion, celery, bell pepper, and garlic. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Stir in the Worcestershire sauce and Creole seasoning. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the tomatoes, chicken broth, salt, black pepper, hot pepper sauce, oregano, thyme, and basil. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 30 minutes.
5. Add the okra and simmer for an additional 15 minutes.
6. In a small bowl, whisk together the flour and water until smooth. Gradually whisk the flour mixture into the gumbo and stir until thickened.
7. Simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
8. Serve with rice and cornbread.

Interesting Facts

• Okra is native to Africa and was brought to the U.S. by African slaves.
• Gumbo is a Creole dish, originating in Louisiana.
• Gumbo is a thick stew, usually made with a roux and a variety of meats and vegetables.
• Okra is a good source of dietary fiber and is high in vitamins A and C.