When it comes to comforting and flavorful dishes, few can beat the classic Southern favorite of Chicken Sausage and Shrimp Gumbo. This hearty stew is a perfect blend of smoky sausages, succulent shrimp, and a rich, flavorful broth that is sure to warm you up from the inside out. Whether you’re looking to impress guests at a dinner party or simply treat yourself to a delicious homemade meal, this gumbo recipe is a fantastic choice that will surely become a staple in your cooking repertoire.
**Chicken Sausage and Shrimp Gumbo**
**Ingredients:**
– 1 lb chicken sausage, sliced
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 onion, diced
– 1 bell pepper, chopped
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can diced tomatoes
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup vegetable oil
– 2 bay leaves
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooked rice, for serving
– Fresh parsley, for garnish
**Instructions:**
1. In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Stir in the flour to make a roux, stirring constantly until it turns a golden brown color, about 10-15 minutes.
2. Add the onion, bell pepper, and celery to the pot, sautéing until the vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Stir in the garlic, bay leaves, thyme, and smoked paprika, cooking for an additional 2 minutes until fragrant.
4. Slowly pour in the chicken broth while whisking to combine with the roux, ensuring there are no lumps.
5. Add the chicken sausage and diced tomatoes to the pot, bringing the gumbo to a simmer. Let it cook for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. Season the gumbo with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting the seasoning if needed.
7. Add the shrimp to the pot and cook for another 5-7 minutes, or until the shrimp are opaque and cooked through.
8. Remove the bay leaves from the gumbo before serving.
9. Serve the Chicken Sausage and Shrimp Gumbo over cooked rice, garnishing with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
Enjoy the delightful flavors of this Chicken Sausage and Shrimp Gumbo that perfectly combine the smokiness of the sausage with the sweetness of the shrimp in a rich and comforting broth. Whether you’re a fan of Southern cuisine or simply looking to try a new flavorful dish, this gumbo recipe is sure to impress your taste buds and leave you feeling satisfied. So, gather your ingredients, set aside some time for cooking, and get ready to savor every spoonful of this soul-warming stew.
