This classic, hearty gumbo is one of the simplest gumbos to make, and will be a favourite for years to come. Use any type of smoked sausage you like. Easy to make for a nice family meal.

Preperation Time: 10 min
Total Time: 1 hour 30 min
Makes:  12 servings.

You need:

• 1 cup oil
• 1 cup flour
• 2 large onions, chopped
• 2 bell peppers, chopped
• 4 ribs celery, chopped
• 4 - 6 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 quarts chicken broth
• 2 bay leaves
• 2 teaspoons Creole Seasons, or to taste
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme leaves
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 1 large chicken (young hen preferred), cut into pieces
• 2 pounds smoked sausage, cut into 1/2" pieces
• 1 bunch scallions (green onions), tops only, chopped
• 2/3 cup fresh chopped parsley
• Filé powder to taste

Creole Seasoning:

• 2 tablespoons onion powder
• 2 tablespoons garlic powder
• 2 tablespoons dried oregano leaves
• 2 tablespoons dried sweet basil
• 1 tablespoon dried thyme leaves
• 1 tablespoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon white pepper
• 1 tablespoon cayenne pepper
• 1 tablespoon celery seed
• 5 tablespoons sweet paprika

Seasoning Preperation

1. Combine the ingredients for the seasoning in a large bowl
2. Mix thoroughly until well blended.

Gumbo Preperation

1. Season the chicken with salt, pepper and seasoning and brown quickly. Brown the sausage, pour off fat and reserve meats.
2. In a large, heavy pot, heat the oil and cook the flour in the oil over medium to high heat, stirring constantly, until it reaches a dark reddish-brown color.
3. Add the vegetables and stir quickly. Continue to cook, stirring constantly, for about 4 minutes.
4. Add the broth, seasonings, chicken and sausage. Bring to a boil, then cook for about one hour, skimming fat off the top as needed.
5. Add the chopped scallion tops and parsley, and heat for 5 minutes. Serve over rice in large bowls.