This Easy Shrimp and Sausage Gumbo is a warm and hearty dish full of flavor. With shrimp, sausage, and a blend of spices, it’s sure to make your taste buds dance!
This dish is like a cozy hug in a bowl. I love how it’s simple to whip up and perfect for sharing with friends. Don’t be surprised if everyone asks for seconds! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Andouille sausage: This smoky sausage adds great flavor! If you can’t find it, you can use kielbasa or even chicken sausage for a lighter option.
Shrimp: Large shrimp work best for this dish. If you prefer, you can substitute with chicken or even a mix of seafood like crab or fish for variety.
Cajun/Creole seasoning: This gives the gumbo its signature spice. You can make your own blend using paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, and onion powder if you don’t have pre-made seasoning handy.
Vegetables: Feel free to switch the veggies! Instead of bell pepper, you could use red or yellow pepper, and add okra for extra texture.
How Do I Make the Perfect Roux?
Making a roux is key to a rich gumbo. It involves cooking flour and oil until brown, which develops deep flavors. Here are some tips:
- Heat the oil over medium heat, then whisk in the flour gradually.
- Keep stirring constantly to prevent burning. The roux should take about 15-20 minutes to reach a deep brown color.
- If you see any darker spots, reduce the heat to avoid burning the roux.
Don’t rush this step; a good roux builds the foundation of flavor in your gumbo!
Easy Shrimp and Sausage Gumbo
Ingredients:
- For the Gumbo:
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, finely chopped
- 2 celery stalks, finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound andouille sausage, sliced into 1/2-inch pieces
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (optional)
- 2 teaspoons Creole seasoning (or Cajun seasoning)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 2 bay leaves
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 2 teaspoons hot sauce (optional)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 4 green onions, chopped
- Cooked white rice, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This scrumptious gumbo takes about 15-20 minutes for preparation and around 30-40 minutes for cooking, making your total time approximately 1 hour. It’s a great dish to prepare for family gatherings or a cozy dinner. So, put on your apron and let’s make some delicious gumbo!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Roux:
In a large heavy pot or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Gradually whisk in the flour, stirring constantly. You want to keep stirring until the roux turns a deep brown color, which should take about 15-20 minutes. Be careful not to burn it—this step is crucial for flavor!
2. Cook the Vegetables:
Add the finely chopped onion, bell pepper, and celery to the roux. Continue to cook while stirring occasionally until the vegetables soften, about 5 minutes. This mix of veggies, known as the “holy trinity,” adds great flavor to the gumbo.
3. Add Garlic and Sausage:
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Then, add the sliced andouille sausage to the pot and cook for 4-5 minutes until it’s nicely browned. This step really builds the flavor!
4. Combine with Broth:
Slowly pour in the chicken broth while stirring to combine with the roux mixture. If you’re using diced tomatoes, add them in now. This will create the delicious base for your gumbo.
5. Season and Simmer:
Stir in the Creole seasoning, thyme, bay leaves, Worcestershire sauce, and hot sauce (if you’re using it). Bring the gumbo to a gentle simmer, letting it cook uncovered for 30-40 minutes. Be sure to stir occasionally so nothing sticks to the bottom!
6. Add the Shrimp:
When the gumbo is beautifully simmering, add the shrimp. Cook them until they turn pink and are just cooked through, about 5 minutes.
7. Finish and Serve:
Remove the pot from heat and discard the bay leaves. Stir in the chopped parsley and green onions for a fresh touch. Taste your gumbo and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
Serve your gumbo hot over bowls of cooked white rice, and enjoy every delicious bite!
Enjoy your flavorful and comforting Easy Shrimp and Sausage Gumbo!
FAQ for Easy Shrimp and Sausage Gumbo
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the frozen shrimp completely before adding them to the gumbo. You can thaw them overnight in the refrigerator or quickly by placing them in a sealed plastic bag and submerging it in cold water for about 30 minutes.
What Can I Substitute for Andouille Sausage?
If you can’t find andouille sausage, you can use kielbasa, any smoked sausage, or even chicken sausage for a lighter option. Just keep in mind that the flavor might change slightly depending on the sausage you choose.
Can I Make This Gumbo Vegetarian or Vegan?
Yes, you can! Substitute the sausage with a plant-based sausage or omit it altogether. For the broth, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also add more vegetables, like okra or mushrooms, to enhance the flavor!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a little water if it looks thickened. You can also freeze the gumbo for up to 3 months; just let it cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers!
