How to Make Shrimp Gumbo with Okra - A Step-by-Step Guide

Shrimp Gumbo with Okra is a classic dish that hails from the southern region of the United States, particularly from the state of Louisiana. This hearty and flavorful stew has its roots in Creole and Cajun cuisine, and is a beloved staple in the culinary repertoire of the region.

Gumbo is a dish that is deeply rooted in history, with influences from African, French, Spanish, and Native American culinary traditions. It is a melting pot of flavors and ingredients that come together to c...

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Ingredients

  • 1 ½ pounds uncooked medium shrimp
  • 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning, divided, or to taste
  • 3 quarts water
  • 1 medium onion, diced, divided
  • 1 large green bell pepper, diced, divided
  • ½ cup butter
  • ½ cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste, or more to taste
  • 2 (14.5 ounce) cans diced tomatoes with green pepper and onion
  • 1 pound okra, cut into 1/4-inch pieces
  • ⅛ teaspoon Cajun-style crab boil seasoning, or to taste

Information

  • Prep Time: 30 mins
  • Cook Time: 3 hrs 40 mins
  • Total Time: 4 hrs 10 mins
  • Servings: 10
  • Yield: 10 servings

  • Peel shrimp and toss shells with 1/2 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning. Place seasoned shells into a pot with water, 1 tablespoon diced onion, and 1 tablespoon diced bell pepper. Bring to a boil; reduce to a simmer and cover. Let cook for at least 2 hours; the longer it cooks, the more flavor will be in your stock.
  • Meanwhile, devein shrimp by gently running a knife along the back; this will also make your shrimp plump nicely when cooking. Toss shrimp in remaining Cajun seasoning and place in the refrigerator.
  • Melt butter in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add flour slowly, stirring constantly with a whisk or wooden spoon. When all flour is added, continue stirring frequently until roux turns brown in color and has a nutty aroma, about 5 minutes. Add remaining onion and bell pepper; saute with roux until onion is translucent, 5 to 7 minutes. Stir in tomato paste.
  • Stir in tomatoes, okra, and shrimp stock slowly. Add crab boil seasoning. Bring to a boil; reduce heat to a simmer and let cook, uncovered, stirring occasionally, about 1 hour. Stir in shrimp and continue cooking until shrimp are bright pink but not tough, about 20 minutes.
  • Nutrition

    208 cal.

    • Total Fat: 10g
    • Saturated Fat: 6g
    • Cholesterol: 128mg
    • Sodium: 666mg
    • Total Carbohydrate: 16g
    • Dietary Fiber: 4g
    • Total Sugars: 6g
    • Protein: 14g
    • Vitamin C: 25mg
    • Calcium: 74mg
    • Iron: 2mg
    • Potassium: 317mg