Gumbo

Unbalanced

% Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet

Step 1

Lightly season the chicken with salt and pepper.

Step 2

Heat the oil over medium heat in a heavy-bottomed Dutch oven. Then cook the chicken until browned on both sides, remove, and set aside. Add the sausage and brown, and then remove. Set aside.

Step 3

Melt the butter and oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed saucepan, then add the flour and stir until smooth.

Step 4

Cook on medium heat, stirring continuously, for about 20-30 minutes or until it turns a rich dark brown color – just like chocolate. Don't walk away from the stove during this process, or it could burn.

Step 5

When you have achieved your desired color, remove the Dutch oven from the stove and let it cool.

Step 6

Return the Dutch oven to the stove. Add the onion, garlic, green pepper, and celery, and cook for 8-10 minutes–stirring frequently.

Step 7

Then add chicken, sausage, crab legs, Creole seasoning, chicken bouillon or cubes, paprika, thyme, bay leaves, and let it cook for 5 minutes.

Step 8

Follow with the canned tomatoes and about 6 cups of chicken stock, then bring it all to a boil and simmer it for 45-50 minutes. After that, add the shrimp and simmer for 5 more minutes.

Step 9

Stir in file powder, green onions, and parsley. Adjust the soup's thickness and flavor with broth or water and salt.