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cajun gumbo recipe Scarlet Roux with Okra Emeralds
- Total Time: 107 minutes
- Yield: 6–8 servings 1x
- Diet: General
Description
This Cajun Gumbo recipe features a rich, dark ‘scarlet’ roux as its base, complemented by tender chicken, smoked sausage, and vibrant okra emeralds. It’s a deeply satisfying and comforting meal perfect for family dinners or healthy meal prep, combining authentic flavor with convenient preparation.
Ingredients
- 0.5 cup vegetable or canola oil, for the roux base
- 0.5 cup all-purpose flour, to create the roux
- 1 large yellow onion, chopped, providing aromatic sweetness
- 2 stalks celery, chopped, a core component of the ‘holy trinity’
- 1 large green bell pepper, chopped (or red bell pepper for sweeter notes), completing the aromatic trinity
- 1 lb cooked smoked sausage, sliced (lean chicken or turkey smoked sausage)
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces, adding rich protein
- 6 cups low-sodium chicken stock (or vegetable broth for a lighter flavor), for the gumbo base
- 12 oz fresh or frozen sliced okra, the ‘okra emeralds’ that thicken and flavor
- 2 dried bay leaves, for subtle herbaceous notes
- 2 Tbsp Cajun seasoning, to spice up the gumbo
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Build Your Scarlet Roux: In a cast-iron Dutch oven, combine 0.5 cup oil and 0.5 cup flour. Stir constantly over medium heat for 20-30 minutes until it reaches a rich, dark brown (like peanut butter) with a nutty aroma.
- Sauté Aromatics: Add the chopped onion, celery, and bell pepper (the holy trinity) to the dark roux. Cook, stirring occasionally, until softened and fragrant (about 5-7 minutes).
- Brown and Simmer: Sear chicken thigh pieces and sliced smoked sausage directly in the pot for 5-8 minutes until lightly browned. Pour in 6 cups chicken stock, stir well, then add 12 oz okra and 2 bay leaves. Bring to a strong simmer for 5 minutes, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 45-60 minutes, or until the chicken is tender and easily shredded.
- Adjust Consistency and Season: If your gumbo seems too thick after simmering, stir in an extra 0.25 cup (60 ml) chicken stock until it reaches your desired consistency. Stir in 2 Tbsp Cajun seasoning, then season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Notes
For quicker meals, consider using pre-made roux. Elevate the flavor with a dash of hot sauce, a squeeze of fresh lemon juice, or fresh herbs like chopped parsley or green onions at the end. For a spicier gumbo, add a pinch of cayenne pepper with the seasonings during simmering. Opt for organic vegetables, pasture-raised chicken thighs, and high-quality smoked sausage for enhanced flavor.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 87 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Cajun
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1.5 cups (360 ml)
- Calories: 550 calories
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 950 mg
- Fat: 35 g
- Saturated Fat: 12 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 23 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 38 g
- Fiber: 7 g
- Protein: 38 g
- Cholesterol: 120 mg