Dive into the heart of Cajun cuisine with Myra's Chicken and Smoked Sausage Gumbo—a dish that promises to warm your soul and tantalize your taste buds! This rich, flavorful gumbo is a celebration of Southern cooking, combining tender chicken, smoky sausage, and vibrant vegetables in a luscious, dark roux. Perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in, this recipe will have everyone at the table begging for seconds. Are you ready to master the art of gumbo and impress your loved ones with a dish that’s as comforting as it is delicious? Let’s get cooking!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 1 hrs 30 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs 50 mins
Cuisine: Cajun
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken, cut into pieces
- 1 lb smoked sausage, sliced
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1/2 cup flour
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups okra, sliced
- 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by preparing all your ingredients. Cut the chicken into pieces and slice the smoked sausage. Chop the onion, bell pepper, and celery into small pieces. Slice the okra and set everything aside.
- In a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, gradually whisk in the flour to create a roux. Stir continuously for about 20-30 minutes, or until the roux turns a rich, dark brown color, similar to chocolate. Be careful not to burn it; lower the heat if necessary.
- Once the roux is ready, add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and celery to the pot. Sauté the vegetables for about 5-7 minutes until they are softened and fragrant.
- Add the sliced smoked sausage to the pot and cook for another 5 minutes, allowing the sausage to release its flavors.
- Next, add the chicken pieces to the pot and cook until they are browned on all sides, about 5-10 minutes.
- Pour in the chicken broth and stir well to combine all the ingredients. Add the sliced okra and Cajun seasoning, then season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let the gumbo simmer uncovered for about 1 hour, stirring occasionally. This will allow the flavors to meld and the gumbo to thicken.
- After 1 hour, taste the gumbo and adjust the seasoning if necessary. If you prefer a thicker gumbo, let it simmer for an additional 15-30 minutes.
- Once the gumbo has reached your desired consistency, remove it from the heat. Serve hot over cooked rice, garnished with chopped green onions or parsley if desired.
- Enjoy your delicious Myra's Chicken and Smoked Sausage Gumbo with family and friends!
Tips
- Perfect Your Roux: The key to a great gumbo lies in the roux. Be patient and stir continuously to achieve that deep, chocolatey color without burning it. If you're new to making roux, consider lowering the heat to avoid any mishaps.
- Season Generously: Cajun seasoning is essential for flavor, but don’t be afraid to adjust the salt and pepper to your taste. Remember, you can always add more, but you can’t take it out!
- Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh vegetables and quality smoked sausage can significantly enhance the flavor of your gumbo. If you can, opt for local produce and artisanal sausage for the best results.
- Let It Simmer: Allowing your gumbo to simmer for at least an hour will help the flavors meld beautifully. If you have the time, let it simmer even longer for a richer taste.
- Serve with Style: Gumbo is traditionally served over rice, but you can also add a sprinkle of chopped green onions or parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Don't forget some crusty bread on the side for dipping!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 28g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 120mg
