cajun shrimp gumbo recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best cajun shrimp gumbo recipe

I’ve always been a fan of hearty, comforting meals that warm the soul. One of my all-time favorite recipes is cajun shrimp gumbo, a classic dish from the southern United States.

The rich flavors and spices in this recipe transport me straight to the bayous of Louisiana, where I spent many summers visiting family and friends. My kids love it too, and it’s become a staple in our household for special occasions like holidays and family gatherings.

Not only is it delicious, but it’s also packed with nutritious ingredients like shrimp, vegetables, and brown rice that make it a great option for busy weeknights or post-workout meals. What I love most about cajun shrimp gumbo is the way the different flavors meld together – the spicy kick of the hot sauce, the earthy undertones of the okra, and the savory goodness of the shrimp all blend to create a taste experience that’s greater than the sum of its parts.

Whether you’re in the mood for something comforting and familiar or looking to spice up your meal routine, cajun shrimp gumbo is sure to hit the spot. And let’s not forget about its impressive nutritional profile – this recipe is full of fiber-rich brown rice, protein-packed shrimp, and antioxidant-rich veggies that will leave you feeling satisfied without overloading on calories.

As someone who’s always on the lookout for healthy yet satisfying meal options, I can confidently say that cajun shrimp gumbo checks all my boxes.

Cajun Shrimp Gumbo

4.9 from 851 votes

Cajun Shrimp Gumbo is a hearty and flavorful stew packed with shrimp, chicken, and the holy trinity of vegetables. This dish is perfect for a comforting meal on a chilly day, and it serves 4 people.

Prep Time20 mins
Cook Time45 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time1 hr 5 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 450 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Roux

1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup vegetable oil

For the Seasoning

1 large onion, chopped
1 large bell pepper, chopped
2 stalks celery, chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 pounds shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 can diced tomatoes
4 cups chicken broth
2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon thyme
1/2 teaspoon oregano
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon white pepper
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon butter

For the Garnish

1/2 cup chopped green onions
1/2 cup chopped parsley
1/2 cup chopped scallions
1/2 cup chopped celery

👨‍🍳Directions

1In a large pot, heat vegetable oil over medium heat until it reaches 350°F.
2Add flour and stir constantly with a wooden spoon until it turns a dark brown color, about 10-15 minutes.
3This is your roux.
4Be careful not to burn it.
5Add onion, bell pepper, and celery to the pot and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
6Stir frequently to prevent burning.
7Add garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute.
8Add chicken to the pot and cook until it is no longer pink on the outside, about 5 minutes.
9Stir frequently to prevent burning.
10Add diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and Cajun seasoning to the pot.
11Stir well to combine.
12Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and let it simmer for 20 minutes.
13Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
14Add shrimp to the pot and cook until they turn pink and are cooked through, about 5 minutes.
15Stir frequently to prevent burning.
16Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
17Garnish with green onions, parsley, scallions, and celery.
18Serve hot with rice.

🔧Equipment

Large pot
Wooden spoon
Measuring cups and spoons
Cutting board
Knife

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 450 kcal🧈Total Fat: 20g💛Saturated Fat: 5g❤️Cholesterol: 250mg🧂Sodium: 1200mg🌾Total Carbs: 25g🥦Dietary Fiber: 3g🍬Sugars: 5g🥩Protein: 40g

📝Notes

Tips: You can substitute andouille sausage for chicken if you prefer. Add additional vegetables such as okra or file powder to thicken the gumbo.

Cajun Shrimp Gumbo is a classic dish that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s a hearty, comforting dish that’s packed with flavor and nutrition. It’s also a great way to feed a crowd and is perfect for family gatherings or potluck dinners.

You can store leftover gumbo in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw the gumbo in the refrigerator overnight and reheat it in a pot over medium heat until heated through. It’s a versatile dish that can be customized to your liking.

You can add other seafood, such as crab or crawfish, to the gumbo for a more hearty dish. You can also serve it with rice, crusty bread, or crackers. It’s a great way to enjoy the flavors of the Gulf Coast in a comforting and satisfying dish.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Cajun Shrimp Gumbo

Q: What is cajun cuisine?

Cajun cuisine originated in rural south Louisiana among French-speaking people who settled in the region in the late 18th century. It’s characterized by its bold flavors, aromas, and spices that reflect its Acadian heritage.

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