Okra is the star of this hearty Creole-style gumbo with shrimp, smoked sausage, and plenty of vegetables. Fresh or frozen okra both work well, so you can combine your Farm Share okra with frozen okra as needed.
Ingredients
Okra, sliced, fresh or frozen1Lb
Oil2Tbsp
Onion, chopped1/2onion
Green bell pepper, chopped1/2pepper
Celery, chopped1stalk
Garlic, minced2cloves
Smoked sausage, sliced1/2Lb
Shrimp, peeled & deveined1/2Lb
Tomato paste2Tbsp
Water3cups
Bay leaf1leaf
Dried thyme1/2Tsp
Paprika1/2Tsp
Cayenne pepper, or to taste1/8Tsp
Salt1Tsp
Black pepper1/4Tsp
Cooked rice, for serving
Instructions
Heat 1 Tbsp oil in a large pot over medium-low heat. Add the okra and cook for about 15 to 20 minutes, stirring often, until softened and most of the sliminess has cooked away.
Add the remaining 1 Tbsp oil, onion, bell pepper, celery, and garlic. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables begin to soften.
Add the sausage and cook for 3 to 4 minutes.
Stir in the tomato paste, then add the water, bay leaf, thyme, paprika, cayenne, salt, and black pepper. Bring to a boil.
Reduce the heat to low and simmer uncovered for about 25 to 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Add the shrimp and simmer for 3 to 5 minutes, or until the shrimp are pink and cooked through. Remove the bay leaf.
Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. Serve warm over cooked rice.
Notes
Okra: Use fresh, frozen, or a combination. If your Farm Share provides less than 1 Lb of fresh okra, simply add frozen okra to make up the difference.
Sausage: Andouille is a traditional choice, but any smoked sausage can be used.