Chicken Gumbo I

Chicken Gumbo I Recipe: Authentic American Cuisine

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 50 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

Chicken Gumbo is a classic Southern dish that is full of flavor and comfort. This hearty stew is perfect for a cozy night in or for feeding a crowd. With a rich broth, tender chicken, and a mix of vegetables, this dish is sure to satisfy your taste buds.

History

Chicken Gumbo has its roots in Louisiana Creole cuisine, where it is a staple dish. The word "gumbo" comes from the West African word for okra, which is a key ingredient in this dish. Gumbo has a long history in the Southern United States and has become a beloved comfort food for many.

Ingredients

1 tsp vegetable oil
0.25 cup all-purpose flour
3 cups reduced-sodium chicken broth
1.5 lb (680 g) chicken breast
1 cup potato
1 cup onion
1 cup carrot (0.5 medium carrot)
0.25 cup celery
4 cloves garlic
2 stalks scallions (green onions)
1 bay leaf
0.5 tsp thyme
0.5 tsp black pepper
2 tsp jalapeno pepper
1 cup okra

How to prepare

Add oil to a large pot and heat over medium flame.
Stir in flour.
Cook, stirring constantly, until the flour begins to turn golden brown.
Slowly stir in all the broth using a wire whisk.
Cook for two minutes. The broth mixture should not be lumpy.
Add the rest of the ingredients except for okra.
Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 20 to 30 minutes.
Add okra and let it cook for 15 to 20 more minutes.
Remove the bay leaf and serve hot in a bowl or over rice.

Variations

Add shrimp or sausage for a different protein option.
Use different vegetables such as bell peppers, corn, or tomatoes.
Make a vegetarian version by omitting the chicken and using vegetable broth.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to constantly stir the flour when making the roux to prevent burning.

- Use reduced-sodium chicken broth to control the saltiness of the dish.

- Feel free to customize the vegetables in this recipe to suit your preferences.

- For a spicier dish, add more jalapeno peppers or hot sauce to taste.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Chicken Gumbo hot in a bowl with a side of rice or cornbread for a complete meal. Garnish with chopped green onions for added flavor.

Cooking Techniques

Making a roux is a key technique in this recipe to create a thick and flavorful base for the stew.

- Simmering the ingredients together allows the flavors to meld and develop over time.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use canola or olive oil instead of vegetable oil.

- Substitute gluten-free flour for all-purpose flour if needed.

- Use chicken thighs or drumsticks instead of chicken breast.

Make Ahead Tips

Chicken Gumbo can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Chicken Gumbo in a rustic bowl with a sprinkle of fresh parsley on top. Pair with a side of crusty bread for dipping.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Chicken Gumbo with a crisp green salad or a side of coleslaw for a refreshing contrast to the rich stew. A glass of iced tea or a cold beer complements the flavors of this dish.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover Chicken Gumbo in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Calories: 250

Carbohydrates

Total Carbohydrates: 24g

Dietary Fiber: 3g

Sugars: 4g

Fats

Total Fat: 5g

Saturated Fat: 1g

Trans Fat: 0g

Proteins

Protein: 30g

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin A: 50%

Vitamin C: 20%

Calcium: 6%

Iron: 15%

Alergens

Contains: None

Summary

Chicken Gumbo is a well-balanced dish that provides a good source of protein, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals. It is relatively low in calories and fat, making it a healthy option for a satisfying meal.

Summary

Chicken Gumbo is a comforting and flavorful dish that is perfect for a cozy night in or for entertaining guests. With a rich broth, tender chicken, and a mix of vegetables, this stew is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Enjoy the taste of the South with this delicious and satisfying dish!

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was immediately drawn to it. It was a hot summer day, and I was flipping through an old cookbook that belonged to my great-grandmother. As I turned the yellowed pages, a picture of a steaming bowl of chicken gumbo caught my eye. The vibrant colors of the okra, bell peppers, and tomatoes mixed with the savory chunks of chicken made my mouth water.

I had always loved cooking, and I was determined to learn how to make this delicious dish. My great-grandmother had passed away years ago, but her love for cooking had been passed down through the generations. I knew that if anyone could teach me how to make chicken gumbo, it would be her.

I set out to find the ingredients I would need for the recipe. I gathered fresh okra from the garden, plump tomatoes from the vine, and tender chicken from the coop. As I chopped and diced, the familiar scents of garlic, onions, and bell peppers filled the air. It was a comforting aroma that reminded me of my childhood.

I followed the recipe carefully, adding each ingredient at just the right moment. The gumbo simmered on the stove, filling the kitchen with warmth and flavor. As I stirred the pot, I thought of my great-grandmother and the love she had poured into her cooking. I knew that she was watching over me, guiding my hand as I recreated her recipe.

Finally, the gumbo was ready. I ladled it into bowls and garnished it with a sprinkle of fresh parsley. The first bite was like a taste of heaven. The rich flavors of the broth mixed with the tender chicken and vegetables created a symphony of taste in my mouth. I closed my eyes and savored each mouthful, feeling a sense of satisfaction and accomplishment.

As I sat at the table, enjoying my homemade chicken gumbo, I thought about the journey I had taken to learn this recipe. It had been a labor of love, a tribute to my great-grandmother and the culinary traditions she had passed down to me. I knew that I would cherish this recipe for the rest of my life, sharing it with my family and friends so that they too could experience the joy of a homemade meal made with love.

And so, that is how I learned to make chicken gumbo. It is a recipe that holds a special place in my heart, a reminder of the time-honored traditions of my family and the love that we share through food. I am grateful for the opportunity to continue the legacy of my great-grandmother, one delicious bowl of gumbo at a time.