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Celiac.com 02/22/2025 - Gumbo is a hallmark of Louisiana cuisine, blending French, African, and Spanish culinary influences into a dish that embodies cultural fusion. Traditionally, gumbo is a hearty stew featuring a dark roux, a medley of proteins like sausage, chicken, or seafood, and the "holy trinity" of Creole cooking—onion, celery, and bell pepper. However, for those who need to avoid gluten, traditional roux made with wheat flour poses a challenge. This gluten-free version preserves the depth of flavor and rich texture of the original dish while substituting gluten-free ingredients for an inclusive twist on a Southern classic. Crafting gumbo from scratch can feel like a celebration, especially when shared with family and friends. Its roots trace back to the 18th century, where it became a staple dish due to its ability to stretch ingredients to feed a crowd. With this gluten-free adaptation, everyone can partake in the joy and tradition of gumbo without compromising dietary needs. Gluten-Free Gumbo Recipe Ingredients For the Roux: ½ cup gluten-free all-purpose flour ½ cup avocado oil or vegetable oil For the Gumbo: 1 pound smoked gluten-free sausage (e.g., Andouille or kielbasa), sliced 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cubed 1 medium onion, diced 1 green bell pepper, diced 2 celery stalks, diced 3 garlic cloves, minced 6 cups gluten-free chicken broth 1 (14-ounce) can diced tomatoes (optional) 1 cup frozen okra, sliced 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning (ensure it is gluten-free) 1 teaspoon smoked paprika ½ teaspoon dried thyme ½ teaspoon ground black pepper 1 bay leaf 1 pound raw shrimp, peeled and deveined 2 green onions, thinly sliced 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped For Serving: Cooked white or brown rice Instructions Step 1: Make the Gluten-Free Roux Heat the oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Gradually whisk in the gluten-free flour, ensuring there are no lumps. Continue stirring constantly, cooking the roux until it becomes a deep caramel or milk chocolate color. This can take 10–15 minutes—do not rush this step as it builds the flavor foundation of your gumbo. Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics Add the diced onion, bell pepper, celery, and garlic to the roux. Stir well, allowing the vegetables to soften and absorb the rich flavors of the roux (about 5 minutes). Step 3: Add Protein and Spices Stir in the sausage and chicken, cooking until the chicken begins to brown. Sprinkle in the Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, thyme, and black pepper, ensuring the proteins and vegetables are evenly coated. Step 4: Build the Broth Gradually pour in the chicken broth while stirring to avoid lumps. Add the diced tomatoes (if using), okra, and bay leaf. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for 30–40 minutes, stirring occasionally. Step 5: Add Shrimp and Finish In the last 5–7 minutes of cooking, add the shrimp to the pot. Stir until the shrimp turn pink and are fully cooked. Remove the bay leaf and taste the gumbo, adjusting seasoning as needed. Step 6: Serve Ladle the gumbo over cooked rice in bowls. Garnish with green onions and parsley for a fresh finish. Why This Recipe is Great for Celiacs This gluten-free gumbo delivers the full-bodied flavors of the original dish without sacrificing texture or authenticity. The gluten-free roux ensures that those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity can enjoy this beloved Southern comfort food. The recipe is versatile, allowing substitutions based on dietary preferences or ingredient availability, making it accessible for a wide range of palates. Whether you're a gumbo enthusiast or trying it for the first time, this recipe captures the spirit of Louisiana's rich culinary heritage in a way everyone can savor.

Celiac.com 03/02/2024 - This soulful dish, bursting with bold flavors and rich textures, is sure to tantalize your taste buds and transport you to the heart of Louisiana with every savory spoonful. Whether you're a seasoned gumbo aficionado or a newcomer to the delights of Cajun cooking, this recipe promises to deliver a truly unforgettable dining experience. Gumbo, a beloved staple of Creole and Cajun cuisine, traces its roots back to the melting pot of cultures that define Louisiana's culinary landscape. Influenced by French, African, Native American, and Spanish culinary traditions, gumbo embodies the spirit of diversity and innovation that characterizes Cajun and Creole cooking. Originally crafted as a hearty stew using locally available ingredients, gumbo has evolved over the centuries into a beloved comfort food cherished by food lovers around the world. Ingredients: ½ cup gluten-free all-purpose flour ½ cup vegetable oil or gluten-free roux 1 large onion, diced 1 green bell pepper, diced 2 celery stalks, diced 3 cloves garlic, minced 1 pound andouille sausage, sliced 1 pound chicken thighs, diced 6 cups gluten-free chicken broth 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (gluten-free) 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning 1 teaspoon dried thyme 1 teaspoon dried oregano 1 bay leaf Salt and pepper to taste 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined 2 cups cooked white rice Chopped green onions, for garnish Instructions: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Gradually whisk in the gluten-free all-purpose flour to create a roux, stirring constantly until the mixture turns golden brown, about 10-15 minutes. Add the diced onion, bell pepper, celery, and minced garlic to the roux, and cook until the vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the sliced andouille sausage and diced chicken thighs, and cook until the meat is browned, about 5 minutes. Pour in the gluten-free chicken broth, diced tomatoes, Worcestershire sauce, Cajun seasoning, dried thyme, dried oregano, and bay leaf. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let simmer, uncovered, for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the pot, and cook until the shrimp are pink and opaque, about 5 minutes. Serve the gluten-free Cajun gumbo hot over cooked white rice, garnished with chopped green onions. Enjoy the warm and comforting flavors of gluten-free Cajun gumbo, a culinary masterpiece that celebrates the rich heritage and vibrant flavors of Louisiana's Cajun culture. With each spoonful, savor the harmonious blend of savory meats, aromatic spices, and tender vegetables that make this dish a true Southern classic. Whether enjoyed as a hearty meal on a chilly evening or served up for a festive gathering with friends and family, gluten-free Cajun gumbo is sure to delight and satisfy even the most discerning palates.