This is the easiest seafood gumbo recipe! This classic gumbo is perfectly spiced and filled with shrimp, fish, and the trinity of vegetables. There are many seafood gumbo recipes out there but none are easier than this single serving classic version.
Place a 2-quart pot over medium heat and add the oil. Allow the oil to heat for about 5 minutes, then add the flour to the pot. Stir the oil and flour together to form a roux. Continue to stir the roux for 10-15 minutes, or until the color of a penny or caramel.
Add the onions, bell peppers, and celery to the roux and stir to blend. Stir the vegetables for 2 minutes, then add the garlic. Cook and stir the garlic for 30 seconds.
Add the chicken broth to the pot. Season the gumbo with the thyme, Worcestershire sauce, salt and pepper. Bring the gumbo to a boil and lower heat to low and simmer. Continue to simmer the gumbo for 40 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Season the shrimp and fish in a small bowl with 1/2 teaspoon of creole seasoning. Stir the shrimp and fish into the gumbo and cook for 5 minutes.
Taste the gumbo and add additional salt if necessary. Serve over cooked rice.
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Notes
Before you start cooking, make sure to read the entire recipe, including the Ingredient Notes section, and examine the process photos. This detailed guide will help you understand how the recipe unfolds, ensuring your seafood gumbo turns out perfect every time. All the information you need is found within the body of this recipe post, so don’t miss a thing!
Opt for White Fish: The ideal choice for seafood gumbo is a white fish such as catfish, snapper, grouper, or sole. If you're feeling adventurous, you can even add crab legs and oysters alongside the shrimp to elevate your gumbo to the next level.
Mind Your Roux: The roux is the cornerstone of any gumbo recipe. Pay close attention to its color as an indicator of its readiness; you're aiming for a caramel or copper penny hue to achieve that authentic gumbo taste.
Use the Right Tools: A heavy-bottomed pan or pot is crucial for even heat distribution, and a whisk is your best ally for consistent stirring, especially when making the roux.
Patience is a Virtue: Gumbo isn't a dish you can rush. Slow cooking is key for allowing the flavors to meld and enrich the overall dish. Your taste buds will thank you for the wait.
Serve Over Rice: To stick to tradition, serve your gumbo over a bed of white rice. But don't hesitate to mix it up once you're comfortable with the basics.
Customize Your Gumbo: Remember, no two gumbo recipes are exactly the same. Start with this foundational single-serving recipe and feel free to tweak the ingredients and seasonings to suit your personal preferences.