Classic Chicken Gumbo Soup

Name: Classic Chicken Gumbo Soup
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 90 min
Total time: 120 min
Yield: 6 servings
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1/4 cup vegetable oil; 1/4 cup all-purpose flour; 1 onion (chopped); 1 green bell pepper (chopped); 2 stalks celery (chopped); 2 cloves garlic (minced); 500 g chicken thighs (boneless, skinless, cut into bite-size pieces); 1 tsp cajun seasoning; 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper; 1 can diced tomatoes (400g); 1 l chicken broth; 2 bay leaves; 200 g okra (sliced); 1 cup cooked rice

120 min 6 servings Medium

All Recipes

Savour the flavours of the South with this hearty chicken gumbo soup, filled with vegetables, tender chicken, and a hint of spice.

Prep

20 min

Cook

90 min

Total

120 min

Servings

Difficulty

Medium

Chicken gumbo soup is a comforting and flavourful dish that originates from the Southern United States, specifically Louisiana. Known for its hearty texture and rich flavours, this soup combines the holy trinity of Cajun cooking: onions, bell peppers, and celery, with tender chicken and a medley of spices. This version of chicken gumbo soup is perfect for those who appreciate robust flavours and a bit of heat. It's a dish that warms the soul and is perfect for those chilly Canadian evenings. The combination of spices and the slow-cooked chicken make this gumbo a family favourite.

Instructions

Prepare the roux

In a large heavy-bottomed pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the flour, stirring constantly, and cook for about 10 minutes until the roux is a deep brown colour.

Pro tip: Keep stirring the roux to prevent it from burning.

Sauté the vegetables

Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and celery to the pot. Cook for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are softened.

Add garlic and chicken

Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute. Add the chicken pieces, cajun seasoning, and cayenne pepper. Cook until the chicken is no longer pink.

Simmer the soup

Add the diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and bay leaves. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 60 minutes.

Pro tip: Cover the pot partially to allow some steam to escape.

Add okra

Stir in the sliced okra and continue cooking for an additional 15 minutes until the okra is tender.

Incorporate rice and serve

Remove the bay leaves from the pot. Stir in the cooked rice, adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed, and let the soup rest for 10 minutes before serving.

Pro tip: Garnish with fresh parsley for added flavour.

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Tips & Tricks

Use a heavy-bottomed pot to prevent sticking.
Keep the roux moving to avoid burning.
Adjust the spice level to your liking by adding more or less cayenne pepper.
Let the soup rest before serving to enhance the flavours.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is chicken gumbo soup?

Chicken gumbo soup is a Southern dish made with chicken, vegetables, and a mix of spices, usually thickened with a roux.

How many calories are in chicken gumbo soup?

A single serving of chicken gumbo soup contains approximately 320 calories.

What is the best way to thicken chicken gumbo soup?

The best way to thicken chicken gumbo soup is by using a roux, which is a mixture of flour and fat cooked together.

Can I freeze chicken gumbo soup?

Yes, chicken gumbo soup can be frozen. Freeze without the rice and add freshly cooked rice when reheating.

How long does it take to cook chicken gumbo soup?

The total cooking time for chicken gumbo soup is approximately 90 minutes.

What is the origin of chicken gumbo soup?

Chicken gumbo soup originates from Louisiana in the Southern United States.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your chicken gumbo soup with a side of crusty bread or over a bed of warm rice to soak up all the delicious broth. For a complete Southern experience, pair it with a cool glass of iced tea or a light beer. This soup can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Simply reheat gently over low heat before serving. If you wish to freeze it, do so without the rice and add freshly cooked rice when ready to serve.

Nutrition per serving

320

Calories

25g

Protein

10g

Fat

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