Hi there, fellow foodie slash traveler! Are you ready to join me in yet another food experience in the heart of New Orleans? Today, I am taking you to our third stop on this food tour. Come with me on a Dooky Chase adventure, where every bite tells a story about history, culture, and, of course, deliciousness! After our satisfying visits to Commander’s Palace and Café du Monde, prepare your taste buds for the iconic flavors of authentic Creole cuisine and the best shrimp gumbo recipe you’ll ever make.
Discovering Dooky Chase Restaurant
Located in the heart of New Orleans is the legendary Dooky Chase Restaurant that’s been serving up mouthwatering dishes since 1941. But it’s more than just a place to grab a bite—it’s a center of culture, a proof of African-American ancestry and an honoring of the best of Southern and Creole cuisine. Once you step inside, you’re greeted not just by the scent of well-blended Creole seasonings and spices but by a sense of the past that lingers in every corner.
Embracing Creole Tradition
Shrimp gumbo ain’t just any old dish, it’s a party of all different flavors from the mixed spices that burst right into your mouth with each spoonful. Dooky Chase shrimp gumbo soup is not their menu staple for no reason—with its succulent shrimp, creamy broth, and a kick of intense flavors—it’s like a comfy hug from the Big Easy itself. Believe me; you will not want to miss this culinary masterpiece.
A Taste of History
But what makes Dooky Chase unique? It’s the legacy, my friends. Founded by the one and only Leah Chase, a.k.a. the “Queen of Creole Cuisine,” this place is more than just a restaurant—it’s a slice of history in New Orleans. From hosting secret meetings during the Civil Rights Movement to supporting the talents of local artists and musicians, Dooky Chase has been an important part of the community for generations.
Crafting My Own Culinary Tale
Feeling inspired by the magic of Dooky Chase shrimp gumbo, I decided to bring a taste of New Orleans home with me. Armed with the savory memory of tasting Leah Chase’s culinary genius, I set out on a mission to make my very own easy shrimp gumbo recipe.
Sharing the Love
Grab your apron, fire up the stove, and let’s dive into a taste of New Orleans right in your own kitchen. Enjoy every spoonful of this delicious sausage shrimp gumbo, and savor the flavors of a culinary tradition that’s as vibrant as the city that inspired it. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or a newbie in the kitchen, here’s a simple homemade recipe I whipped up so you can enjoy this special dish with your loved ones. Happy cooking, my fellow foodie-adventurers!
Homemade Shrimp Gumbo with Okra
Dive into the rich, flavorful world of Homemade Shrimp Gumbo with Okra! This hearty dish combines succulent shrimp, smoky andouille sausage, and fresh okra in a savory stew that’s perfect for any occasion. With a blend of spices and a touch of heat, this gumbo is sure to impress your taste buds. Serve it over fluffy rice and garnish with fresh scallions and parsley for a meal that’s both comforting and satisfying. Get ready to wow your family and friends with this easy-to-follow recipe!
4
servings20
minutes40
minutes450
kcal1
hourKeep the screen of your device on
Ingredients
- Base Ingredients
3 tablespoons canola oil
1/2 cup finely chopped celery
1/2 cup finely chopped red bell pepper
1/2 cup finely chopped red onion
4 cloves garlic, finely minced
1 teaspoon sea salt
1/2 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
- Proteins
4 ounces ground spicy sausage (chorizo)
1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
8 ounces smoked andouille sausage, sliced into 1/4 inch pieces
- Vegetables & Spices
1 can crushed tomatoes 14 ounces
12 ounces fresh okra, cut into small pieces
1 tablespoon smoked paprika
1 tablespoon filé powder (sassafras powder)
1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- Liquids
2 cups seafood stock
2 cups chicken broth
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- For Serving
6 cups cooked white rice
Chopped green onions (scallions)
Chopped fresh parsley
- Alternative Ingredients:
Vegetable Oil: Canola oil or olive oil can be used.
Chorizo: Substitute with spicy Italian sausage or omit for a milder flavor.
Fish Stock: Use vegetable broth or clam juice.
Chicken Stock: Replace with more seafood stock or vegetable broth.
Andouille Sausage: Kielbasa or any smoked sausage can be used.
Okra: Green beans or zucchini as a substitute.
Filé Powder: Cornstarch or omit if unavailable.
Directions
- Sautéing Vegetables – In a Dutch oven over medium heat, warm the canola oil. Add the celery, red bell pepper, red onion, garlic, sea salt, and black pepper. Stir frequently until the onions become translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Cooking Sausage – Incorporate the ground spicy sausage (chorizo) into the pot. Cook while stirring occasionally until browned and cooked through, approximately 4-5 minutes.
- Adding Vegetables & Spices – Pour in the crushed tomatoes along with the smoked paprika, diced okra, filé powder, and cayenne pepper. Stir well to combine all ingredients and cook for another 4-5 minutes.
- Simmering Broth – Add the seafood stock and chicken broth to the pot along with the apple cider vinegar. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Thickening Stew – Reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it cook for about 20-25 minutes until the filé powder thickens the stew.
- Final Touches – Stir in the peeled and deveined shrimp along with the sliced smoked andouille sausage. Cook for an additional 4-5 minutes until the shrimp are pink and fully cooked.
- Serving – Serve the hot shrimp gumbo over cooked white rice. Garnish with chopped green onions (scallions) and fresh parsley.
Equipment
- Chef’s Knife
- Cutting Board
- Dutch Oven
- measuring cups and spoons
Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 450kcal
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Cholesterol: 180mg
- Sodium: 1200mg
- Potassium: 600mg
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 6g
- Protein: 30g
- Vitamin A: 1500IU
- Vitamin C: 40mg
- Calcium: 100mg
- Iron: 4mg
FAQ – Crafting Dooky Chase Shrimp Gumbo Recipe
When to add raw shrimp to the gumbo?
It is better to add the shrimp at the end of the cooking to keep them tender and juicy.
What is gumbo file? Is it the same as file powder?
Gumbo file (filé) is an herb and a green seasoning that is made from dried sassafras leaves. Make sure to buy file powder made from sassafras in making the recipe for a more authentic taste.
What to serve or eat with gumbo?
The side dish to serve or eat with your shrimp gumbo is a fluffy White Rice.
What goes with gumbo?
Aside from the vegetables and gumbo file powder mentioned in the ingredients, you can change the type of meat that you can add to your gumbo. You can try using chicken instead of shrimp if you want to but sausage is typically always added to gumbo.
Want to try out other New Orleans recipes? Feel free to check out this other post:
New Orleans Style Turtle Soup
Cooks in 75 minutesDifficulty: MediumDive into the heart of Creole cuisine with this authentic New Orleans Style Turtle Soup! A perfect blend of rich flavors and textures, this soup is a testament to the culinary tradition of the South. Crafted with turtle meat and seasoned with a unique Creole blend, each spoonful promises a burst of flavor that’s both comforting and sophisticated.
