simple okra gumbo recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best simple okra gumbo recipe

I’ve been making this simple okra gumbo recipe for years, and it’s always a hit with my family. It’s a staple in our household, especially during the winter months when we need a warm and comforting meal.

The dish has its roots in African and French cuisine, where okra was used as a thickening agent and to add flavor to soups and stews. My kids love helping me in the kitchen, and they’re always excited to taste the finished product.

The key to making a great gumbo is to use a combination of techniques – sautéing the vegetables, browning the meat, and then simmering everything together until it’s thick and rich. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or for special occasions like holidays or family gatherings.

Plus, it’s incredibly healthy – the okra provides fiber and protein, while the vegetables add vitamins and minerals. I like to serve it over rice, which helps to soak up all the flavorful broth.

My family loves this recipe because it’s easy to make and customize to our tastes. We like to add hot sauce or hot peppers for an extra kick of flavor.

I’ve also been known to add in some leftover meat or vegetables from previous meals to make it even more hearty.

Simple Okra Gumbo

4.9 from 1929 votes

A comforting and flavorful gumbo featuring okra, chicken, and vegetables. This dish is perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Gumbo

2 tbsp vegetable oil
1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 medium onion, chopped
1 bell pepper, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
2 cups chicken broth
1 lb okra, sliced
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
1/2 tsp paprika
1/2 tsp thyme
1/2 tsp oregano
2 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water

For Serving

Cooked rice
Green onions, chopped

👨‍🍳Directions

1Heat vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2Add chicken pieces, cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes.
3Remove chicken from pot and set aside.
4In the same pot, add onion, bell pepper, and garlic.
5Sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
6Add diced tomatoes, chicken broth, okra, salt, black pepper, cayenne pepper, paprika, thyme, and oregano.
7Stir well to combine.
8Return the chicken to the pot.
9Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, and let it simmer for 20 minutes, or until the okra is tender and the flavors have melded.
10Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
11Stir in the cornstarch mixture.
12Cook for an additional 3 minutes, or until the gumbo has thickened.
13Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
14Serve the gumbo over cooked rice and garnish with chopped green onions.

🔧Equipment

Large pot
Wooden spoon
Measuring cups and spoons

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 14g💛Saturated Fat: 3g❤️Cholesterol: 70mg🧂Sodium: 1200mg🌾Total Carbs: 25g🥦Dietary Fiber: 6g🍬Sugars: 8g🥩Protein: 28g

📝Notes

Tips: For a spicier gumbo, add more cayenne pepper or a diced jalapeño. For a richer flavor, use smoked paprika and add a pinch of smoked salt.

This simple okra gumbo recipe is a staple in our household and always a good idea for any occasion. It’s easy to make and customize to our tastes, and we love serving it over rice with some crusty bread on the side.

The best part is that it’s incredibly healthy – the okra provides fiber and protein, while the vegetables add vitamins and minerals. We like to serve it at family gatherings or on weeknights when we need a quick and comforting meal.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Okra Gumbo

What is gumbo?

Gumbo is a stew-like dish that originated in Louisiana, made with a combination of ingredients such as okra, rice, meat or seafood, and a variety of vegetables.

What type of okra should I use?

For this recipe, you can use either frozen or fresh okra. If using fresh okra, make sure to slice it into small pieces so it cooks evenly.

Can I substitute other types of vegetables for the okra?

Yes, you can use other types of vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, or eggplant in place of the okra.

How do I store leftover gumbo?

You can store leftover gumbo in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze it for up to 2 months.

Can I reheat gumbo in the microwave?

Yes, you can reheat gumbo in the microwave by covering it with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap and heating it on high for 30-60 seconds.

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