Louisiana Seafood Gumbo

Name: Louisiana Seafood Gumbo
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 30 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined; 1 lb crab meat; 1 onion, diced; 1 bell pepper, diced; 3 celery stalks, diced; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can diced tomatoes; 6 cups chicken or seafood stock; 1/2 cup vegetable oil; 1/2 cup flour; 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; Cooked white rice for serving; Green onions for garnish; Parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Experience the vibrant taste of the South with this Louisiana Seafood Gumbo recipe. Packed with fresh shrimp, crab, and a medley of spices, this hearty dish combines rich flavors and a delightful kick, making it perfect for any occasion. Serve it over rice for a comforting meal that captures the soul of Cajun cuisine.

Created by

Lucy Price

Last updated on 2025-12-02T14:10:53.863Z

Description of the dish's origins and cultural significance.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Bursting with flavor
Rich in seafood goodness
Perfect for gatherings
Versatile and adaptable

      

The Essence of Cajun Cuisine

Cajun cuisine is known for its bold flavors and hearty ingredients, rooted in the rich cultural heritage of Louisiana. The combination of French, African, and Native American influences creates a unique culinary experience. Louisiana Seafood Gumbo exemplifies this delicious tradition, showcasing the abundance of fresh seafood available along the Gulf Coast. Each bowl brings together a medley of flavors, from the savory roux to the spicy Cajun seasoning, making it a beloved dish across the region.

At the heart of Cajun cooking is the principle of using what you have, which is reflected in gumbo’s versatile nature. You can easily modify this recipe based on seasonal seafood or your personal preferences. The end result is a dish that’s not only satisfying but also a true representation of Louisiana’s culinary diversity.

Cooking Tips for Perfect Gumbo

Creating a rich, dark roux is crucial for a flavorful gumbo. Patience is key here—ensure you stir constantly and monitor the heat carefully. The roux should resemble chocolate in color and have a nutty aroma. This step lays the foundation for the depth of flavor in your gumbo, so don’t rush it.

When adding the seafood, choose the freshest options you can find. Shrimp and crab are traditional, but feel free to include other seafood like oysters or fish. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly to prevent overcooking. The seafood should be tender and perfectly cooked, adding to the overall deliciousness of the dish.

Serving Suggestions

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients.

Ingredients

1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 lb crab meat
1 onion, diced
1 bell pepper, diced
3 celery stalks, diced
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 can diced tomatoes
6 cups chicken or seafood stock
1/2 cup vegetable oil
1/2 cup flour
2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
Cooked white rice for serving
Green onions for garnish
Parsley for garnish

Make sure to have fresh ingredients for the best flavor.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your gumbo.

Make the Roux

In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Gradually whisk in the flour, stirring constantly until the mixture turns a dark brown color, about 20 minutes.

Add Vegetables

Add the onion, bell pepper, celery, and garlic to the roux. Cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.

Combine Ingredients

Stir in the diced tomatoes, stock, Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for 30 minutes.

Add the Seafood

Add the shrimp and crab meat, cooking for an additional 10 minutes until the shrimp are cooked through.

Serve

Serve the gumbo hot over a bed of white rice and garnish with green onions and parsley.

Enjoy your homemade Louisiana Seafood Gumbo!

Variations to Try

While classic Louisiana Seafood Gumbo is a standout, there are many variations you can explore. For a twist, consider trying a chicken and sausage gumbo. The addition of spicy sausage brings a robust flavor that pairs well with the spices, offering a different yet equally satisfying experience.

Vegetarian gumbo is another great option. Replace the seafood with a medley of hearty vegetables, such as bell peppers, zucchini, and okra. Use vegetable stock to maintain the rich flavors without the seafood, allowing you to enjoy the essence of gumbo while catering to plant-based diets.

Storing and Reheating

Gumbo is excellent for meal prep, as it tastes even better the next day once the flavors have melded. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors continue to develop, creating a more robust taste that many find irresistible.

When reheating, do so gently on the stove over low heat to prevent the seafood from overcooking. You may want to add a splash of stock or water to loosen the gumbo if it thickens in the fridge. Enjoy your flavorful creations as leftovers, making each meal a continued celebration of Cajun cuisine!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen seafood?

Yes, frozen seafood can be used, just ensure it is fully thawed before adding to the gumbo.

→ What can I substitute for the crab?

You can substitute with additional shrimp or use a different type of fish.