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shrimp gumbo recipe

shrimp gumbo recipe

This delicious shrimp gumbo is a classic Cajun dish, overflowing with bold flavors and the rich aroma of the South. Packed with shrimp and a medley of vegetables, it’s perfect for a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends. Serve it over rice for a hearty meal.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Course Main Course
Cuisine Cajun
Servings 4 People
Calories 350 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 Large pot or Dutch oven
  • 1 Wooden spoon
  • 1 Ladle
  • 1 Measuring cups
  • 1 Measuring spoons
  • 1 Knife and cutting board

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • ½ cup vegetable oil
  • ½ cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 1 medium green bell pepper, chopped
  • 2 stalks celery, chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, with juices
  • 6 cups seafood stock or water
  • 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning Adjust based on spice preference.
  • 1 teaspoon thyme
  • 2 leaves bay leaves
  • 1 cup okra, sliced (fresh or frozen)
  • to taste salt and pepper
  • 3 cups cooked white rice (for serving)
  • Chopped green onions and parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

  • In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Gradually whisk in the flour to make a roux.
  • Stir the roux continuously for about 15-20 minutes, until it becomes a dark brown color, similar to chocolate. Be careful not to burn it.
  • Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, celery, and garlic to the roux. Cook for about 5 minutes, until the vegetables are soft.
  • Stir in the diced tomatoes (with juices), seafood stock (or water), Cajun seasoning, thyme, bay leaves, and okra. Bring the mixture to a boil.
  • Reduce the heat to low and let the gumbo simmer for 20-30 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
  • Add the shrimp to the pot and cook for an additional 5 minutes, until the shrimp are fully cooked and pink.
  • Season the gumbo with salt and pepper to taste. Remove the bay leaves before serving.
  • Serve the gumbo over cooked white rice and garnish with chopped green onions and parsley, if desired.

Notes

If you prefer a thicker gumbo, let it simmer a bit longer to reduce the liquid.
You can substitute shrimp with other seafood like crab or add sausage for a more robust flavor.
Adjust the level of Cajun seasoning based on your spice preference.