08/15/2026
Shrimp and Andouille Gumbo with a Deep, Savory Roux
Ingredients:
3/4 cup (170 g) unsalted butter
1 cup (125 g) all-purpose flour
1 large yellow onion, finely chopped
2 celery ribs, finely chopped
1 large green bell pepper, finely chopped
2 teaspoons minced garlic
10 cups (2.4 liters) beef or chicken broth
14 oz (400 g) andouille sausage, sliced
14.5 oz (411 g) can stewed tomatoes
6 oz (170 g) tomato sauce
2 tablespoons hot sauce
1 tablespoon granulated sugar
1/2 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
4 bay leaves
4 teaspoons gumbo filé powder, divided
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
3 lb (1.36 kg) peeled and deveined medium shrimp
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Cooked white rice, for serving
Fresh parsley or sliced green onions, for garnish
Directions:
Melt the butter in a large heavy-bottomed pot over medium-low heat. Gradually whisk in the flour until completely smooth.
Continue stirring the roux frequently and patiently for about 30 to 40 minutes, until it develops a rich, deep brown color. Watch carefully because a burnt roux will need to be replaced.
Once the roux reaches the desired color, remove the pot from the heat and allow it to cool slightly.
Add the onion, celery, green bell pepper, and garlic to the pot. Return it to medium-low heat and cook for about 8 to 12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables soften.
Slowly whisk in the broth to create a smooth, thickened base. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, stirring to prevent the roux from settling.
Reduce the heat and add the sliced andouille sausage, stewed tomatoes, tomato sauce, hot sauce, sugar, Cajun seasoning, thyme, and bay leaves.
Cover partially and simmer gently for about 45 minutes, allowing the vegetables, sausage, and spices to develop a deep flavor.
Stir in 2 teaspoons of gumbo filé powder and continue simmering for another 15 minutes.
Remove the bay leaves. Add the shrimp and Worcestershire sauce, then cook gently until the shrimp are pink, opaque, and cooked through, about 5 to 8 minutes.
Stir in the remaining gumbo filé powder. Taste and adjust with salt, black pepper, or additional hot sauce as desired.
Ladle the gumbo over hot cooked white rice and garnish with fresh parsley or sliced green onions.
Serve immediately with warm cornbread for a hearty Southern-inspired meal.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 3 hours 10 minutes | Total Time: 3 hours 25 minutes
Kcal: 282 kcal | Servings: 16 servings