Gombo Jumble

Gombo Jumble Recipe - Chicken, Okra, Ratatouille, and Rice

Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Gombo Jumble is a delicious and hearty dish that combines the flavors of chicken, okra, and a variety of herbs and spices. This recipe is perfect for a cozy night in or a family gathering, as it is sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.

History

Gombo Jumble has its roots in traditional Southern cuisine, where okra is a staple ingredient in many dishes. This recipe has been passed down through generations, with each family adding their own twist to make it their own.

Ingredients

2 cups chicken broth
1 cup cooked, deboned chicken
1 medium onion, diced
1 green pepper, diced
5 – 8 okra (gombo), sliced
1 can (400 g) ratatouille (or whole tomatoes)
0.5 tsp cayenne
0.5 tsp basil
0.5 tsp oregano
1 bay leaf
pimento to taste
0.75 cup uncooked rice (well washed)

How to prepare

Place all ingredients, except rice, into a large pot.
Bring the mixture to a boil.
Reduce the heat and let it simmer for approximately 10 minutes.
Next, add the rice and stir well.
Cover the pot and continue simmering until the rice is tender, which should take around 20 minutes. Stir occasionally.
Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning as desired.

Variations

Add shrimp or sausage for a seafood or meaty twist.
Use quinoa or couscous instead of rice for a different texture.
Mix in diced tomatoes or bell peppers for added flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to wash the rice thoroughly before adding it to the pot to remove any excess starch.

- Adjust the amount of cayenne and pimento to suit your taste preferences.

- For a richer flavor, use homemade chicken broth instead of store-bought.

- Stir the pot occasionally while simmering to prevent the rice from sticking to the bottom.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Gombo Jumble hot with a side of cornbread or crusty bread for a complete meal. Garnish with fresh parsley or green onions for a pop of color.

Cooking Techniques

Simmering

- Boiling

Ingredient Substitutions

Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian version.

- Substitute chicken with tofu or tempeh for a plant-based option.

- Swap okra with zucchini or green beans for a different taste.

Make Ahead Tips

Prepare the Gombo Jumble up to a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Gombo Jumble in individual bowls garnished with a sprinkle of fresh herbs or a dollop of sour cream. Pair with a side salad for a complete and colorful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Gombo Jumble with a glass of sweet tea or a cold beer for a refreshing and satisfying meal. For dessert, try a slice of pecan pie or peach cobbler.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

220

Carbohydrates

- Total Carbohydrates: 35g

- Dietary Fiber: 3g

- Sugars: 2g

Fats

- Total Fat: 3g

- Saturated Fat: 1g

- Trans Fat: 0g

Proteins

- Protein: 15g

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin A: 10% DV

- Vitamin C: 30% DV

- Calcium: 4% DV

- Iron: 10% DV

Alergens

Contains: None

Summary

Gombo Jumble is a well-balanced dish that provides a good source of carbohydrates, proteins, and essential vitamins and minerals. It is a nutritious option for a satisfying meal.

Summary

Gombo Jumble is a flavorful and comforting dish that is easy to make and perfect for any occasion. With a balance of protein, carbohydrates, and essential nutrients, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy the rich flavors of the South with this delicious and satisfying meal.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of finding this recipe for the first time is a special one. It was a hot summer day in New Orleans, and I had just finished exploring the bustling French Quarter with its colorful buildings and lively jazz music. As I made my way back to my hotel, I stumbled upon a quaint little shop tucked away in a quiet alley.

The shop was filled with all sorts of knick-knacks and trinkets, but what caught my eye was a dusty old cookbook sitting on a shelf in the corner. Curious, I picked it up and began flipping through the pages, my eyes landing on a recipe for Gombo Jumble. The name alone intrigued me, and as I read through the ingredients and instructions, I knew I had to try it for myself.

I purchased the cookbook and hurried back to my hotel room, eager to get started on my culinary adventure. I gathered all the necessary ingredients – okra, tomatoes, onions, bell peppers, andouille sausage, and a blend of spices – and set to work in the tiny kitchenette.

As I chopped and sautéed and simmered, the aromas wafting through the air brought me back to my childhood, to my own grandmother’s kitchen where I first fell in love with cooking. She was a master in the kitchen, always whipping up delicious meals with ease and grace. I learned so much from her over the years, and now, as I stirred the pot of Gombo Jumble, I felt her presence with me, guiding my hands.

After hours of cooking, the Gombo Jumble was finally ready. I ladled it into a bowl and took a hesitant first bite, unsure of what to expect. But as soon as the flavors hit my tongue – the smoky sausage, the tangy tomatoes, the tender okra – I knew I had stumbled upon something truly special.

I quickly jotted down the recipe in my own notebook, knowing it was a dish I would want to make again and again. And over the years, I did just that, tweaking and perfecting the recipe until it became a staple in my own kitchen.

Every time I make Gombo Jumble, I am transported back to that hot summer day in New Orleans, to the thrill of discovery and the joy of creating something delicious from scratch. And as I serve it to my family and friends, I pass on not just a recipe, but a piece of my own culinary journey, a taste of the love and passion that has fueled my cooking for so many years.

So here it is, my beloved Gombo Jumble recipe, a dish that holds a special place in my heart and a story that I will always cherish. I hope you enjoy it as much as I have, and that it brings a little taste of New Orleans into your own kitchen. Bon appétit!