Discover the flavors of Southern cooking with this hearty Chicken and Smoked-Sausage Gumbo recipe. Brimming with a medley of fresh vegetables and succulent meat, this gumbo is a savory delight that will transport your taste buds straight to Louisiana. This classic Creole dish is very versatile and perfect for those cold winter nights.
The ingredients in this recipe are mostly common, but there are a couple you might need to look out for. Okra, a staple in Southern cooking, may not be readily available in all grocery stores. Check the frozen aisle as it's often sold there. Smoked sausage is another ingredient you want to ensure you get right. Opt for Andouille sausage if possible, as it lends an authentic, smoky flavor to the gumbo.
Chicken and Smoked-Sausage Gumbo Ingredients
Cooking oil: Used as the base of the roux, it helps in thickening the gumbo.
Flour: Combined with oil, it forms the roux.
Onion: It adds a sweet and savory depth to the gumbo.
Celery: It contributes to the classic flavor profile of the gumbo.
Green bell pepper: Adds a pop of color and subtle sweetness.
Okra: Helps to thicken the gumbo and adds a unique texture.
Bay leaf: Infuses the gumbo with a subtle, herbal flavor.
Dried thyme and oregano: Adds an earthy flavor.
Salt and pepper: Seasonings to enhance all the other flavors in the gumbo.
Cayenne: Gives the gumbo a spicy kick.
Tomatoes in thick puree: Gives the gumbo body and a tangy note.
Chicken broth: Provides the liquid base of the gumbo.
Smoked sausage: Adds a rich, smoky flavor to the gumbo.
Chicken meat: The main protein of the gumbo.
Long grain rice: The perfect companion to the gumbo, it soaks up all the delicious broth.
One reader, Ginger Burr says:
This chicken and smoked-sausage gumbo recipe is a game-changer! The flavors are rich and comforting, and the combination of chicken and sausage is simply divine. The recipe is easy to follow and the end result is a hearty and satisfying dish that's perfect for a cozy night in. Highly recommended!
Mastering the Techniques for Authentic Gumbo
Prepare the roux: Whisk the flour into the hot oil and cook until it starts to brown, creating a thickening agent for the gumbo.
Simmer the gumbo: After adding the broth and smoked sausage, bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Cook the rice: Boil the rice in salted water until it is just done, then drain and serve as a base for the gumbo.
How To Make Chicken and Smoked-Sausage Gumbo
This smoke sausage gumbo is a hearty and filling dish, that’s loaded with tender chicken and veggies, and all simmered in a richly spicy tomato sauce!
Serves:
Ingredients
- 3tbspcooking oil
- 3tbspflour
- 1onion
- 2celery ribs
- 1green bell pepper
- 1ozfrozen okra,(1 package), sliced
- 1bay leaf
- 1½tspdried thyme
- 1tspdried oregano
- 2tspsalt
- ¼tspfresh ground black pepper
- ¼tspcayenne
- 1¾cupstomatoes in thick puree,(one 15 oz can), canned, crushed
- 4cupschicken broth,(1 quart), low sodium, canned
- ½lbsmoked sausage
- 1lbchicken meat,boneless
- ¾cuplong grain rice
Instructions
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In a large stainless-steel pot, heat the oil over moderate heat. Whisk in the flour and cook, whisking, for about 4 minutes, until starting to brown.
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Reduce the heat to moderately low. Stir in the onion, celery, and bell pepper and cook for about 7 minutes, until starting to soften. Add the okra, bay leaf, thyme, oregano, salt, black pepper, cayenne, and tomatoes.
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Cover and cook for 5 minutes. Stir in the broth and the smoked sausage.
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Bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer for 15 minutes. Add the chicken and cook for 4 to 5 minutes longer, until just done. Remove the bay leaf.
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Bring a medium pot of salted water to a boil. Stir in the rice and boil for 10 to 12 minutes, until just done. Drain.
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Put a mound of rice in the center of each bowl. Ladle the gumbo around the rice.
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Serve warm, and enjoy!
Nutrition
- Calories: 663.39kcal
- Fat: 31.54g
- Saturated Fat: 6.91g
- Trans Fat: 0.10g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 14.78g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 7.07g
- Carbohydrates: 49.83g
- Fiber: 3.32g
- Sugar: 8.52g
- Protein: 43.64g
- Cholesterol: 126.27mg
- Sodium: 1429.73mg
- Calcium: 80.00mg
- Potassium: 1067.88mg
- Iron: 3.51mg
- Vitamin A: 79.19µg
- Vitamin C: 40.30mg
One Simple Technique for Elevating Your Gumbo
When making your gumbo, it's crucial to get the roux - the mixture of flour and fat - just right. This is the base of your gumbo and it's what gives it its distinctive flavor and texture. Start with moderate heat and whisk the flour into the oil until it starts to brown. This process, known as browning or cooking out the flour, removes the raw flour taste and develops a nutty flavor. Be patient and don't rush this step, as burning the roux can result in a bitter taste. Once you've achieved the desired color, reduce the heat to moderately low before adding your vegetables. This will prevent the roux from burning while the vegetables are sautéing.
Time-Saving Tips for Making Chicken and Smoked-Sausage Gumbo
Prep ahead: Chop and measure all ingredients in advance to streamline the cooking process.
Use pre-cooked meat: Consider using pre-cooked chicken or smoked sausage to cut down on cooking time.
One-pot wonder: Opt for a single pot for cooking to minimize cleanup and save time.
Frozen veggies: Utilize frozen okra and other vegetables to skip the prep work and save time.
Simmer and multitask: While the gumbo simmers, use the time to prepare other elements of the meal or set the table.
Efficient chopping: Practice efficient chopping techniques to speed up the prep work.
Instant rice: Consider using instant rice for a quicker cooking process.
Pressure cooker: Use a pressure cooker to significantly reduce the cooking time for the gumbo.
Batch cooking: Make a larger batch and freeze the extra portions for quick and easy meals in the future.
Substitute Ingredients For Chicken and Smoked-Sausage Gumbo Recipe
cooking oil - Substitute with vegetable oil: Vegetable oil is a neutral-flavored oil that can be used as a substitute for cooking oil in this recipe.
flour - Substitute with gluten-free flour: If you need a gluten-free option, you can use a gluten-free flour blend as a substitute for regular flour in this recipe.
onion - Substitute with shallots: Shallots have a milder flavor compared to onions and can be used as a substitute in this recipe for a more delicate taste.
celery - Substitute with fennel: Fennel has a similar crunchy texture and a hint of licorice flavor, making it a suitable substitute for celery in this recipe.
green bell pepper - Substitute with red bell pepper: Red bell peppers can be used as a substitute for green bell peppers, adding a slightly sweeter flavor to the dish.
frozen okra - Substitute with sliced zucchini: Sliced zucchini can be used as a substitute for okra, providing a similar texture and mild flavor to the gumbo.
bay leaf - Substitute with thyme: Thyme can be used as a substitute for bay leaf to add a subtle earthy flavor to the gumbo.
dried thyme - Substitute with dried marjoram: Dried marjoram can be used as a substitute for thyme, providing a slightly sweeter and milder flavor to the dish.
dried oregano - Substitute with dried basil: Dried basil can be used as a substitute for oregano, adding a slightly different herbaceous flavor to the gumbo.
salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can be used as a substitute for regular salt, providing a slightly different mineral flavor to the dish.
fresh ground black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper can be used as a substitute for black pepper, providing a milder and slightly different flavor to the gumbo.
cayenne - Substitute with paprika: Paprika can be used as a substitute for cayenne, adding a mild smoky flavor and vibrant color to the dish.
tomatoes in thick puree - Substitute with canned crushed tomatoes: Canned crushed tomatoes can be used as a substitute for tomatoes in thick puree, providing a similar texture and flavor to the gumbo.
low sodium chicken broth - Substitute with vegetable broth: Vegetable broth can be used as a substitute for chicken broth, providing a vegetarian-friendly option for the gumbo.
smoked sausage - Substitute with andouille sausage: Andouille sausage can be used as a substitute for smoked sausage, adding a spicy and smoky flavor to the gumbo.
chicken meat - Substitute with turkey meat: Turkey meat can be used as a substitute for chicken, providing a similar texture and flavor to the gumbo.
long grain rice - Substitute with brown rice: Brown rice can be used as a substitute for long grain rice, adding a nuttier flavor and extra fiber to the dish.
Presenting Your Gumbo: Tips for a Beautiful Dish
Elevate the plating: Arrange the gumbo and rice meticulously on the plate, ensuring each element is visible and appealing.
Garnish with finesse: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the gumbo for a pop of color and a touch of freshness.
Incorporate texture: Consider adding a delicate crispy okra garnish to provide a textural contrast to the dish.
Utilize elegant serving ware: Present the gumbo in a sophisticated, porcelain bowl to enhance the dining experience.
Focus on precision: Pay attention to the placement of each component, ensuring that the rice is neatly formed and the gumbo is ladled gracefully around it.
Emphasize visual appeal: Create a visually stunning presentation by incorporating vibrant colors and thoughtful arrangement of the dish elements.
Consider the dining experience: Aim to create a visually appealing and appetizing presentation that complements the rich flavors of the gumbo.
Highlight the ingredients: Showcase the quality of the smoked sausage and chicken by arranging them prominently in the dish.
Balance the composition: Strive for a harmonious balance of colors, textures, and shapes to create an aesthetically pleasing presentation.
Embrace simplicity: Let the flavors shine by presenting the gumbo in a clean, uncluttered manner, allowing the dish to speak for itself.
Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Gumbo
- Cooking pot: A large, heavy-bottomed pot used for cooking the gumbo.
- Whisk: Used for mixing the flour and oil to make the roux.
- Knife: For chopping the onion, celery, and bell pepper.
- Cutting board: To provide a stable surface for chopping vegetables and meat.
- Measuring spoons: For accurately measuring the dried thyme, oregano, salt, black pepper, and cayenne.
- Measuring cups: Used to measure the chicken broth and rice.
- Ladle: For serving the gumbo.
- Medium pot: Used for boiling the rice.
- Strainer: To drain the cooked rice.
- Stainless-steel pot: Used for making the roux and cooking the gumbo.
- Tongs: For handling the chicken and smoked sausage while cooking.
- Wooden spoon: For stirring the gumbo while it simmers.
Storing and Freezing Chicken and Smoked-Sausage Gumbo
Refrigerate the gumbo in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. The flavors will meld and intensify over time, making it even more delicious when reheated.
To freeze the gumbo, allow it to cool completely to room temperature. Transfer the gumbo to freezer-safe containers or resealable bags, leaving about an inch of space at the top for expansion.
Label the containers or bags with the date and contents, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw the gumbo overnight in the refrigerator.
Reheat the gumbo gently in a pot over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. If the gumbo appears too thick, add a little chicken broth or water to thin it out to your desired consistency.
For best results, store the rice separately from the gumbo. Cooked rice can become mushy when frozen and reheated. Prepare fresh rice when you're ready to serve the reheated gumbo.
If you plan on freezing the gumbo, consider undercooking the vegetables slightly, as they will soften further during the reheating process. This will help maintain their texture.
When reheating frozen gumbo, you may notice that the roux (the flour and oil mixture used to thicken the gumbo) may separate slightly. Simply stir the gumbo well while reheating to reincorporate the roux and restore the gumbo's smooth consistency.
How To Reheat Leftover Gumbo
Reheat the gumbo in a large pot over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until it reaches a simmer. This low and slow method allows the flavors to meld together again without overcooking the chicken or sausage.
If the gumbo seems too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or water to thin it out to your desired consistency. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt, black pepper, and cayenne if needed.
For individual portions, reheat the gumbo in a microwave-safe bowl, covered with a damp paper towel to prevent splatters. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through, until heated through.
If you have leftover rice, reheat it separately in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water. Fluff the rice with a fork before serving.
To add a fresh touch to your reheated gumbo, garnish with chopped green onions, parsley, or a sprinkle of filé powder (ground sassafras leaves) just before serving.
For a crispy texture contrast, serve the reheated gumbo with freshly baked cornbread or crusty French bread on the side.
Did You Know? An Interesting Fact About Gumbo
The chicken and smoked-sausage gumbo recipe is a classic dish originating from Louisiana. It is a flavorful and hearty stew that combines the rich flavors of smoked sausage, tender chicken, and a variety of vegetables and spices. Gumbo is a staple in Cajun and Creole cuisine and is often enjoyed with a side of rice. This dish is a perfect example of the diverse and vibrant culinary traditions found in the southern United States.
Is Making Gumbo at Home Cost-Effective?
This chicken and smoked-sausage gumbo recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The combination of chicken, smoked sausage, and vegetables makes it a hearty and filling meal. The use of affordable ingredients and the ability to stretch the recipe to feed a family of four makes it a budget-friendly option. The approximate cost for a household of four people is around $20, making it an economical choice. Overall Verdict: 9/10
Is Chicken and Smoked-Sausage Gumbo Healthy?
This chicken and smoked-sausage gumbo recipe, while undeniably delicious, does have some aspects that could be considered less than healthy. The use of oil and flour to create a roux, along with the smoked sausage, contributes to the dish's high fat content. Additionally, the salt content may be a concern for those watching their sodium intake.
However, the recipe also includes a variety of vegetables, such as onion, celery, bell pepper, and okra, which provide essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber. The use of chicken breast meat is a lean protein source, and the long grain rice adds complex carbohydrates to the meal.
To make this gumbo recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:
- Reduce the amount of oil used in the roux or opt for a lighter roux made with less oil and flour
- Choose a lower-fat smoked sausage or replace it with a lean protein like shrimp or extra chicken
- Increase the quantity of vegetables in the recipe to boost the nutrient content and fiber
- Use low-sodium chicken broth to reduce the overall salt content
- Opt for brown rice instead of white rice to increase the fiber and nutrient content of the dish
- Serve the gumbo with a side salad or additional steamed vegetables to create a more balanced meal
By making these adjustments, you can enjoy the rich flavors of this classic Southern dish while also prioritizing your health and well-being.
Editor's Take: My Honest Opinion on This Gumbo Recipe
The chicken and smoked-sausage gumbo recipe is a classic Southern dish that offers a rich and flavorful combination of ingredients. The use of smoked sausage adds a depth of smoky flavor, while the combination of spices and vegetables creates a well-balanced and aromatic base. The addition of chicken and okra further enhances the heartiness of the dish. The suggested wine pairing from Languedoc-Roussillon in southern France is a thoughtful touch, as the region's sturdy reds complement the robust flavors of the gumbo. Overall, this recipe is a delightful representation of traditional Southern cuisine, perfect for a comforting and satisfying meal.
Enhance Your Chicken and Smoked-Sausage Gumbo Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
Exploring Alternative Gumbo Recipes
Appetizer and Dessert Ideas to Complement Your Gumbo
Why trust this Chicken and Smoked-Sausage Gumbo Recipe:
This recipe is a trusted classic, perfected over generations. The combination of smoked sausage and chicken creates a rich, savory flavor that's hard to resist. The addition of okra brings a unique texture, while the blend of thyme, oregano, and cayenne adds a depth of warmth and spice. The use of long grain rice as a base ensures a satisfying, hearty meal. Trust in the traditional techniques and carefully selected ingredients to deliver an authentic taste of the South.
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