Okra Gumbo

Ingredients and Weight:

• Okra, fresh: 1 pound
• Onion, chopped: 1 medium
• Bell pepper, chopped: 1 medium
• Celery, chopped: 1 medium
• Ham hock: 1 small (about 1 pound)
• Chicken stock: 6 cups
• Sausage, smoked and sliced: 1 pound
• Shrimp, peeled and deveined: 1 pound
• Cooked rice, for serving

Preparation Time:

15 minutes

Cooking Time:

1 hour

Difficulty Level:

3 (Medium)

Preparation Method Steps:

1. Slice the okra into 1/2-inch pieces.
2. Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the ham hock and cook until browned on all sides.
3. Add the onion, bell pepper, and celery to the pot and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in the chicken stock, sausage, and okra. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes.
5. Add the shrimp and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until pink and cooked through.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot over cooked rice.

Nutritional Information:

• Calories: 350 per serving
• Fat: 15g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Protein: 25g

Dish Characteristics:

• Thick, rich, and flavorful stew
• Perfect comfort food for a cold day
• Can be made ahead of time and reheated
• Versatile dish that can be customized to taste

User Comments:

• "This gumbo is so delicious! The okra is perfectly cooked and the shrimp is tender and juicy."
• "I love the smoky flavor from the ham hock. It really adds depth to the dish."
• "This is a great recipe to use up leftover vegetables and meat."
• "I like to add a bit of cayenne pepper to give it a little kick."
• "This gumbo is a crowd-pleaser! I always get rave reviews when I make it."

Special Precautions and Tips:

• Be sure to wash the okra thoroughly before slicing it.
• If you don't have a ham hock, you can substitute a smoked turkey neck or smoked sausage.
• You can use any type of sausage you like in this recipe. Andouille sausage is a popular choice.
• If you don't have time to cook the rice, you can serve the gumbo with cornbread or crusty bread.