Cajun Shrimp & Sausage Gumbo

Recipe Collection: Dinner

Cajun Shrimp & Sausage Gumbo brings the bold flavors of Louisiana to your table. This hearty, non-vegetarian dish combines succulent shrimp and smoky sausage in a rich, dark roux, thickened with unique file powder. Perfect for those following a gluten-free diet, this Cajun classic is a feast for the senses, ideal for serving over rice or enjoying on its own.

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Overview

Merwin's Shrimp Gumbo is a classic Louisiana Cajun dish, rich in flavor and tradition. This dark brown gumbo is made with shrimp, smoked sausage, and a variety of vegetables, served over rice. The dish is thickened with file powder, a unique ingredient made from ground sassafras leaves, added just before serving to avoid stringiness.

Diet Type

Non-Vegetarian

Allergies

Shellfish, Gluten

Cuisine

Cajun

Serving Size: 8

Cooking Time: 135 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 Pound (lb) smoked sausage, sliced
• 0.5 Cup vegetable oil
• 1 4 Pounds (lb) chicken, divided
• 0.67 Cup all-purpose flour
• 2 Cups onion, minced
• 0.5 Cup green onions, minced
• 0.67 Cup green bell pepper, minced
• 2 Tablespoons (tbsp) fresh parsley, minced
• 1 Tablespoon (tbsp) garlic, minced
• 2 Pounds (lb) medium shrimp, peeled
• 8 Cups water
• 1 Pinch salt, to taste
• 1 Pinch ground black pepper, to taste
• 0.125 Teaspoon (tsp) cayenne pepper
• 1 Teaspoon (tsp) dried thyme
• 2 Bay leaves
• 1 Pinch file powder, to taste

Steps

1. In a medium skillet, brown the sausage over medium heat. Remove from the pan and drain on paper towels. Discard the fat in the pan.
2. In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over high heat. Brown the chicken pieces in the hot oil, turning frequently until golden brown on all sides. Transfer the chicken to a dish, leaving the oil in the pan. Set the chicken aside, keeping it warm.
3. Make a roux by whisking the flour into the hot vegetable oil. Reduce the heat to low and continue cooking, stirring constantly, until the roux reaches a dark brown color, about 30 to 45 minutes.
4. Once the roux is dark brown, quickly add the sausage, onion, green onions, green pepper, parsley, and garlic. Cook over low heat until the vegetables are wilted, about 10 minutes, stirring constantly.
5. Stir in 2 cups of water and the spices. Add the chicken parts and slowly add the remaining water. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 45 minutes, until the chicken is done and tender.
6. Remove the chicken pieces and save them for another use. Add the shrimp to the gumbo and cook for about 8 to 10 minutes more. Remove the bay leaves. Taste and adjust the seasoning.
7. Serve the gumbo in deep bowls, sprinkling file powder over individual servings and stirring it in.

Enjoy your flavorful Cajun Shrimp & Sausage Gumbo!