2022-11-01
By Southern Cookin' Mama
Cajun Cuisine
Main Course
Use the slow cooker’s "Low" setting to simmer your gumbo for 6-8 hours, allowing the flavors of sausage, shrimp, and vegetables to meld together. The "Keep Warm" function helps maintain the perfect serving temperature until you're ready to enjoy it.
Utilize the Instant Pot’s "Saute" function to brown your meats, onions, and garlic for a rich base, then switch to "Pressure Cook" for 20-25 minutes. This method ensures that your gumbo is done quickly while maintaining the depth of flavor you love.
The precise temperature control of the induction cooker allows you to achieve the perfect simmer for your gumbo. Start with a high heat to bring your broth to a boil, then reduce to a low simmer to slowly cook the sausage, shrimp, and veggies to tender perfection.
Gumbo starts with making a roux, a mixture of flour and fat that is cooked until it turns brown and nutty. The roux gives the dish its distinctive flavor and texture but can be challenging to make without burning or scorching. It's important to stir slowly and constantly and use low to medium heat to avoid any burnt bits.
Gumbo can include a variety of proteins, from chicken and sausage to shrimp and crab. Each type of meat requires different cooking times and techniques, so it's important to choose the ones that work best for you. It's important to use fresh and high-quality ingredients to ensure the best flavor and texture.
Gumbo also includes a variety of vegetables, such as onions, bell peppers, and celery, that are sautéed with the roux and create a flavor base for the dish. It's important to chop the vegetables evenly and cook them until they are tender but not mushy. Some people also like to add okra to their gumbo, which can be a divisive ingredient because of its slimy texture.
Gumbo relies on a blend of spices and herbs to create its complex flavor profile. This can include thyme, oregano, bay leaves, and cayenne pepper, among others. It's important to balance the spices so that they don't overpower the other flavors.
Gumbo is traditionally served over rice, which adds a neutral and fluffy base to the dish. To cook rice perfectly, it's important to use the right ratio of water and rice and let it simmer until it's fully cooked and tender. Some people prefer to cook the rice separately, while others like to cook it directly in the gumbo.
Gumbo is a dish that benefits from resting and reheating, as its flavors deepen and meld together over time. It's important to let it cool slightly before serving to avoid any burns or spills. Some people like to serve gumbo with crusty bread or cornbread, which can help sop up the flavorful broth.
Preparation Time 30 min
Cook Time 2 hours 30 min
Total time 3 hours
This version is made with a dark roux-infused broth, served with pillowy gnocchi, and loaded with spicy sausage and vegetables.
Creamy Quinoa Gnocchi SoupThis version is made with protein-packed quinoa, complemented by classic Cajun spices, sautéed vegetables, and a rich, savory broth for a nutritious twist.
Vegan Slow Cooker White Bean Quinoa GumboThis version is made with bold Cajun spices, a hearty combination of shrimp, sausage, and colorful vegetables, all simmered in a flavorful roux.
Zucchini and Quinoa Cajun Stew (aka Vegan Gumbo without Okra)This version is made with a rich blend of seafood and andouille sausage, simmered with okra and traditional spices for authentic Louisiana flavor.
Louisiana Vegan GumboThis version is made with flavorful meatballs, slow-cooked in a rich, spicy roux alongside vegetables and aromatic herbs for a hearty twist.
Vegan Gumbo with Andouille Red Bean MeatballsThis version is made with a robust vegetable broth, an array of colorful veggies, plant-based proteins, and spices for a hearty, satisfying dish.
Vegan GumboThis version is made with tender eggplant, simmered in a savory roux with okra, bell peppers, and aromatic spices for a delightful twist.
Eggplant GumboThis version is made with succulent duck meat, earthy mushrooms, and rich spices, creating a savory, comforting gumbo that delights the senses.
Duck And Wild Mushroom GumboThis version is made with tender chicken, a rich roux, and a medley of vegetables, simmered to perfection for a hearty dish.
Chicken & Mushroom GumboThis version is made with flavorful tempeh, aromatic spices, and hearty vegetables, creating a vegetarian gumbo that's rich, satisfying, and delicious.
Mushroom and Tempeh GumboThis version is made with nutritious lentils, a savory blend of spices, and an array of vegetables, delivering a comforting, hearty dish.
Vegan Gumbo Recipe With Okra And Lentils, Gluten-FreeThis version is made with tender sweet potatoes, a rich blend of spices, and classic Cajun ingredients, offering a delightful twist on gumbo.
Sweet Potato Gumbo, Make it a New Holiday TraditionThis version is made with succulent shrimp, smoky sausage, hearty vegetables, and bold spices, creating a flavorful and satisfying gumbo experience.
Spicy Weekend Gumbo with Shrimp and SausageThis version is made with juicy Cajun-spiced chicken, bell peppers, onions, and a medley of spices, delivering a hearty and flavorful gumbo.
Cajun Chicken and Sausage Gumbo RecipeThis version is made with spicy tasso ham, fiery habanero peppers, and rich seasonings, resulting in a bold and unforgettable gumbo experience.
Chicken, Andouille, and Tasso Habanero Gumbo