This Creole-Style Shrimp and Sausage Gumbo recipe brings the vibrant flavors of Louisiana right into your kitchen. A slow cooker dish, it’s perfect for a hearty, comforting meal that’s full of bold spices, tender shrimp, smoky sausage, and the rich taste of okra and tomatoes. It’s a classic Southern dish that’s simple to prepare yet delivers a depth of flavor that’s sure to satisfy.
Benefits:
- Nutrient-Rich: Shrimp is a great source of protein and essential nutrients, while okra and tomatoes provide fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants.
- Heart-Healthy: Using reduced-fat sausage helps reduce the overall fat content while still maintaining that smoky flavor.
- Convenient: This slow-cooked dish is easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy days.
Ingredients:
- 2 cans (14 oz each) stewed tomatoes
- 1/4 pound (120 g) reduced-fat smoked sausage, sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 clove garlic, peeled and minced
- 1/8 teaspoon crushed red pepper
- 1/2 pound (240 g) fresh sliced okra
- 3/4 pound medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
- Salt, to taste
- 3 cups (750 ml) cooked rice, warm
Instructions:
- Prepare the Slow Cooker: In a 6-quart slow cooker, combine the stewed tomatoes, sausage, bell pepper, garlic, and crushed red pepper. Mix well.
- Slow Cook: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low heat for 6-7 hours, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Add Vegetables: In the last 30 minutes of cooking, add the sliced okra. This ensures it becomes tender but not overcooked.
- Cook the Shrimp: In the final 10 minutes, add the peeled and deveined shrimp. Cook until the shrimp are pink and cooked through.
- Season and Serve: Turn off the slow cooker and taste the gumbo. Adjust the seasoning with salt if needed. Serve the gumbo over warm cooked rice, and enjoy the rich, spicy flavors.
Helpful Tips:
- Fresh vs. Frozen Shrimp: Fresh shrimp works best for this recipe, but if using frozen, ensure they are fully thawed before adding to the slow cooker.
- Vegetable Options: If you don’t have okra, you can substitute with zucchini or green beans for a different texture.
- Thicker Gumbo: For a thicker consistency, remove some of the liquid and reduce it on the stove, then stir it back into the gumbo.
FAQs:
Q: Can I make this gumbo spicier?
A: Absolutely! Increase the amount of crushed red pepper or add a dash of hot sauce for extra heat.
Q: What can I serve with this gumbo?
A: Cornbread or a simple green salad would complement the gumbo nicely.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve this gumbo over fluffy, warm rice, and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. For an authentic touch, you can also offer hot sauce on the side.
Servings:
This recipe serves about 4-6 people.
Time:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6-7 hours
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
Enjoy this flavorful and comforting Creole-Style Shrimp and Sausage Gumbo, a dish that’s perfect for bringing a taste of New Orleans to your home!
More Slow Cooker Recipes
- Slow Cooker Lipton Onion Potatoes
- Honey Garlic Ribs
- Smothered Pork Chops
- Savory Slow Cooker Chicken Breasts with Gravy
Recipe Card
Creole-Style Shrimp and Sausage Gumbo recipe
Ingredients
- – 2 cans 14 oz each stewed tomatoes
- – 1/4 pound 120 g reduced-fat smoked sausage, sliced
- – 1 red bell pepper chopped
- – 1 clove garlic peeled and minced
- – 1/8 teaspoon crushed red pepper
- – 1/2 pound 240 g fresh sliced okra
- – 3/4 pound medium shrimp peeled and deveined
- – Salt to taste
- – 3 cups 750 ml cooked rice, warm
Instructions
- **Prepare the Slow Cooker**: In a 6-quart slow cooker, combine the stewed tomatoes, sausage, bell pepper, garlic, and crushed red pepper. Mix well.
- **Slow Cook**: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low heat for 6-7 hours, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- **Add Vegetables**: In the last 30 minutes of cooking, add the sliced okra. This ensures it becomes tender but not overcooked.
- **Cook the Shrimp**: In the final 10 minutes, add the peeled and deveined shrimp. Cook until the shrimp are pink and cooked through.
- **Season and Serve**: Turn off the slow cooker and taste the gumbo. Adjust the seasoning with salt if needed. Serve the gumbo over warm cooked rice, and enjoy the rich, spicy flavors.