Gumbo recipe

1. **Ingredients:**

   - 1 cup vegetable oil

   - 1 cup all-purpose flour

   - 1 onion, finely chopped

   - 1 bell pepper, finely chopped

   - 2 celery stalks, finely chopped

   - 3 cloves garlic, minced

   - 1 pound andouille sausage, sliced

   - 1 pound chicken (boneless, skinless thighs), cubed

   - 6 cups chicken broth

   - 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes

   - 1 teaspoon dried thyme

   - 1 teaspoon dried oregano

   - 1 teaspoon paprika

   - 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)

   - Salt and pepper to taste

   - 1 pound fresh or frozen okra, sliced (optional)

   - 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined

   - 2 tablespoons file powder (ground sassafras leaves)

   - Cooked rice for serving

2. **Roux:**

   - In a large pot, combine oil and flour over medium heat. Stir continuously until the roux reaches a dark brown color (about 20-30 minutes).

3. **Vegetables and Aromatics:**

   - Add chopped onion, bell pepper, celery, and garlic to the roux. Cook until vegetables are softened.

4. **Meat:**

   - Add andouille sausage and cubed chicken. Cook until chicken is browned.

5. **Broth and Tomatoes:**

   - Pour in chicken broth and add diced tomatoes. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer.

6. **Seasoning:**

   - Stir in thyme, oregano, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Simmer for about 30 minutes.

7. **Okra (Optional):**

   - Add sliced okra and continue to simmer until tender.

8. **Shrimp:**

   - Add shrimp and cook until they turn pink.

9. **Finishing Touch:**

   - Stir in file powder for thickening.

10. **Serve:**

    - Serve gumbo over cooked rice.

Enjoy your flavorful and hearty gumbo!