Smoked Chicken & Sausage Gumbo with Q-View

[candycoated]

I'm no expert, but I can give you my opinions :)

Okra gives gumbo it's signature texture (the best way I can describe it is slimy- but that doesn't sound appetizing does it?)

File is a seasoning that comes from sassafras. It compliments the dark roux. I never add extra file to my gumbo, it has an earthy flavor quality which I don't particularly love, but a little bit is nice to get that gumbo flavor.

My husband doesn't like vegetables, especially okra. So I use less, chop them a bit smaller, and sautee them a bit so they cook down into the soup.

I don't figure either is necessary, make what tastes good to you and your family. :)

 

[linguica]

From what I've read, okra is more traditional to Cajun cooking because it is a vegetable. It provides more nutrition and bulks up the dish. Choctaw Indians from the Louisiana bayou country are said to have been the first users of file seasoning made from the ground, dried leaves of the sassafras tree. It's since become an integral part of CREOLE COOKING and is used to thicken and flavor GUMBOS and other Creole dishes.

 

[nedtorious]

Thanks for the info guys! The gumbo went so well, I think I may try my luck with Jambalaya next! 

 

[shoneyboy]

First off the Gumbo looks great!!! Now on to the File vs Okra….. They both are used to thicken the gravy…..It is just a personal preference…. With my family, you can’t put to much Okra in a pot…..they will add file to it to taste…..

 

[candycoated]

I never knew file was a thickener!

It's nice to know file has other redeeming qualities, because it really isn't the best tasting seasoning out there. ;p

 

[shoneyboy]

I never knew file was a thickener!

It's nice to know file has other redeeming qualities, because it really isn't the best tasting seasoning out there. ;p

Here is a link for you .....

http://www.thespicehouse.com/spices/gumbo-file-powder-powdered-sassafras-leaves

 

[candycoated]

I like their descriptive word slippery, it's much better than slimy.. heh, semantics. Thanks Shoneyboy!