Imagine a pot of bubbling gumbo, the aroma of spicy Cajun seasoning mingling with the earthy scent of freshly halved Brussel sprouts.
The vibrant green of the sprouts contrasts beautifully with the deep red of the sausage and the pink of the shrimp, creating a feast for the eyes and a promise of warmth and comfort.
This dish matters to me because it brings a sense of home and hearty satisfaction, whether it’s a busy weeknight or a leisurely Sunday supper.
I remember one evening when I’d forgotten to plan dinner and needed something quick yet nourishing for my family.
This gumbo came to the rescue, its rich flavors and quick preparation making it a staple in our household.
Ready? Let’s cook up a pot of this delicious Brussels sprouts gumbo together, and bring a little bit of the South into your kitchen!
Why You’ll Love It
- Delivers bold flavor with a mix of Cajun spices and fresh ingredients.
- Freezes beautifully for a convenient, make-ahead meal option.
- Uses pantry staples like chicken broth and common vegetables.
- Provides a hearty meal with shrimp, sausage, and Brussel sprouts.
- Offers adjustable spice levels to suit your taste preferences.
Ingredients
- 450 g shrimp — peeled and deveined for easy cooking
- 450 g sausage — find quality sausage with real hardwood smoke
- 300 g Brussel sprouts — halved for even cooking
- 1 onion — diced for flavor base
- 1 green bell pepper — diced for color and taste
- 2 stalks celery — diced for added crunch
- 3 cloves garlic — minced for aromatic depth
- 950 ml chicken broth — use homemade for richer flavor
- 30 ml olive oil — for sautéing ingredients
- 15 g Cajun seasoning — adjust to taste
- 8 g flour — to thicken the gumbo
- 5 g salt — to enhance the flavors
- 2.5 g black pepper — freshly ground for best taste
- 1.25 g thyme — dried for subtle notes
- 0.6 g cayenne pepper — for a spicy kick
- 8 g parsley — chopped for garnish
Step-by-Step Method
Start by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Make sure the oil is hot but not smoking before proceeding.
The right temperature will help in browning the sausage evenly and infusing the oil with its flavors. This step sets the foundation for the rich, savory base of the gumbo.
Brown the Sausage
Add the sliced sausage to the hot oil in the pot. Cook the sausage until it’s browned on all sides. Use a wooden spoon to stir occasionally, guaranteeing even browning. Once browned, remove the sausage from the pot and set it aside. This step adds depth and flavor to the gumbo.
Sauté the Vegetables
In the same pot, add diced onion, green bell pepper, celery, and minced garlic. Sauté these vegetables until they’re softened, stirring occasionally. This process should take about 5 minutes. The vegetables will absorb the sausage’s residual flavors, enhancing the gumbo’s taste.
Stir in the Flour
Sprinkle flour over the softened vegetables and stir well. Cook this mixture for about 2 minutes, allowing the flour to brown lightly. This step is vital as it helps thicken the gumbo, giving it a hearty consistency.
Add Chicken Broth
Gradually pour in the chicken broth while stirring continuously. This prevents lumps from forming and guarantees a smooth mixture. Bring the mixture to a simmer, allowing the flavors to meld together. This forms the base for your gumbo broth.
Season the Gumbo
Add the Cajun seasoning, salt, black pepper, thyme, and cayenne to the pot. Stir well to evenly distribute the spices. Adjust the seasoning to your taste preference, keeping in mind that you can add more cayenne for extra heat. This step builds the gumbo’s distinctive flavor profile.
Cook Brussel Sprouts
Add halved Brussel sprouts to the simmering pot. Cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. The Brussel sprouts should become tender but remain slightly crisp. This step adds a unique texture and a touch of earthiness to the gumbo.
Add Shrimp and Sausage
Stir in the shrimp and the previously browned sausage. Continue to cook until the shrimp turn pink and are cooked through. Be cautious not to overcook the shrimp to maintain their tenderness and juiciness. This step completes the protein component of your gumbo.
Let Rest and Garnish
Remove the pot from heat and allow the gumbo to rest for 5 minutes. This resting period allows the flavors to settle and intensify. Before serving, garnish the gumbo with chopped parsley for a fresh, vibrant finish. Serve with rice or crusty bread to enjoy every last bit of the flavorful broth.
Ingredient Swaps
- For a seafood-free version, substitute the shrimp with additional vegetables such as zucchini or mushrooms.
- To make it vegetarian, replace the sausage with plant-based sausage alternatives and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
- If Brussel sprouts are unavailable, substitute with cabbage or kale for a similar texture.
- For a milder gumbo, reduce or omit the cayenne pepper.
You Must Know
- Use fresh spices: To guarantee the best flavor, use fresh Cajun seasoning, thyme, and cayenne pepper. Fresh spices will enhance the overall taste of your gumbo.
- Don’t skip the browning: When cooking the sausage, make certain to brown it thoroughly. This step adds a depth of flavor to the dish that can’t be replicated later.
- Gradually add broth: As you incorporate the chicken broth, do it gradually while stirring continuously. This will help prevent lumps from forming and guarantee a smooth gumbo base.
- Adjust spice levels: Customize the heat of your gumbo by adjusting the amount of cayenne pepper. Start with the recommended amount and add more if you prefer a spicier dish.
- Avoid overcooking shrimp: Pay close attention to the shrimp as they cook. Overcooked shrimp become tough and rubbery, so remove the gumbo from heat as soon as they turn pink and are cooked through.
Serving Tips
- Serve the gumbo over steamed rice for a hearty, satisfying meal.
- Pair with crusty French bread to soak up the flavorful broth.
- Garnish with extra chopped parsley for a fresh, vibrant touch.
- Accompany with a side salad for a balanced meal.
- Serve with a chilled glass of white wine to complement the seafood flavors.
Storage & Make-Ahead
Brussel Sprouts Gumbo with Shrimp and Sausage can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container.
For make-ahead convenience, consider freezing the gumbo for up to 3 months.
Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently on the stove to preserve texture and flavor.
Reheating
For gentle reheating, use a microwave on low power.
An oven at 300°F or a stovetop on low heat can also be used.
Stir occasionally to guarantee even heating without overcooking.
Cajun Cuisine’s Historical Roots
While exploring the rich tapestry of Cajun cuisine, you’ll uncover a fascinating blend of cultures and traditions.
Imagine the lively streets of Louisiana, where French, Spanish, African, and Native American influences converge in a culinary dance. This fusion creates a vibrant, flavorful experience that captures the essence of the region.
The roots of Cajun cuisine trace back to the Acadian settlers who arrived in Louisiana during the 18th century. They brought with them simple, rustic cooking techniques that evolved into the rich, spicy dishes we savor today.
Ingredients like bell peppers, onions, and celery, known as the “Holy Trinity,” lay the foundation for many Cajun dishes. Each bite of gumbo tells a story, connecting you to a history as rich as its flavors.
Final Thoughts
Give this Brussel Sprouts Gumbo a try, and feel free to tweak the spices to suit your taste buds. Serve it with some rice or crusty bread for a delicious and satisfying meal!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp Instead of Fresh?
Absolutely, you can use frozen shrimp! I’d suggest thawing them first for even cooking. Frozen shrimp are convenient and still deliver that delicious, juicy texture. Just make sure they’re properly defrosted before adding to your dish. Enjoy!
How Long Can This Gumbo Be Stored in the Fridge?
You can store this gumbo in the fridge for up to 3 days. I recommend placing it in an airtight container to maintain its flavor. Just reheat gently on the stove, and it’s ready to enjoy again!
Is There a Vegetarian Version of This Recipe?
I’ve got a delicious vegetarian twist for you! Replace shrimp and sausage with hearty mushrooms and chickpeas. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken. It’s flavorful, satisfying, and perfect for those meat-free days. Give it a try!
What Type of Sausage Is Best for This Gumbo?
I recommend using andouille sausage for its smoky, spicy profile. It adds depth and a Cajun flair to the dish. Don’t worry if you can’t find it; smoked sausage or chorizo work wonderfully too. Enjoy cooking!
Can I Substitute Another Vegetable for Brussel Sprouts?
Of course, you can swap Brussels sprouts with another veggie. I’d suggest using kale or spinach for a tender texture, or green beans for a bit of crunch. Experiment with what you like best!
Brussel Sprouts Gumbo with Shrimp and Sausage
Equipment
- 1 Large pot
- 1 Cutting board
- 1 Chef's knife
- 1 Wooden spoon
- 1 Ladle
- 1 measuring cup
Ingredients
- 1 pound shrimp peeled and deveined
- 1 pound sausage sliced
- 2 cup Brussel sprouts halved
- 1 onion diced
- 1 green bell pepper diced
- 2 stalk celery diced
- 3 clove garlic minced
- 4 cup chicken broth
- 2 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- 1 tablespoon flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 2 tablespoon parsley chopped
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add the sausage slices and cook until browned.
- Remove the sausage and set aside.
- In the same pot, add onion, bell pepper, celery, and garlic.
- Sauté until vegetables are softened.
- Stir in flour and cook for 2 minutes.
- Gradually add chicken broth while stirring.
- Bring to a simmer and add Cajun seasoning, salt, pepper, thyme, and cayenne.
- Add Brussel sprouts and cook for 10 minutes.
- Stir in the shrimp and cooked sausage.
- Cook until shrimp are pink and cooked through.
- Remove from heat and let rest for 5 minutes.
- Garnish with parsley before serving.
Notes
