Keto Gumbo

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Keto Gumbo is a perfect blend of southern comfort and low-carb goodness. With savory Andouille sausage, tender shrimp, and a medley of fresh vegetables, it’s a hearty and satisfying dish. The cauliflower rice serves as a great low-carb substitute for traditional rice, making this gumbo both keto-friendly and delicious. Plus, it’s a simple, one-pot dish that’s packed with flavor, making it an excellent choice for weeknight dinners or meal prep.

Ingredients

• 12 oz Okra (fresh or frozen, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds)
• 2 tbsp Olive oil
• 12 oz Andouille sausage (sliced thinly)
• 2 large Bell peppers (diced; I used red and green)
• 1/2 large Onion (diced)
• 1/2 cup Celery (diced)
• 4 cloves Garlic (minced)
• 8 cups Chicken broth, reduced sodium
• 1 14.5-oz can Diced tomatoes (with liquid)
• 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning (start with 1 tbsp if you don’t want spicy)
• 1/2 tsp Sea salt (to taste)
• 24 oz Cauliflower rice (fresh or frozen)
• 12 oz Medium shrimp (peeled and deveined, thawed if frozen)
• 1-3 tsp File powder (optional, for thick gumbo, adjust to desired thickness)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
2. Add the sliced Andouille sausage and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the sausage from the pot and set it aside.
3. In the same pot, add the diced bell peppers, onion, celery, and garlic. Cook for 4-5 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften.
4. Add the okra and cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Pour in the chicken broth and diced tomatoes with their liquid. Stir to combine.
6. Add the Cajun seasoning and sea salt. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes.
7. Add the cauliflower rice and cooked sausage back into the pot. Stir and let everything cook together for another 5 minutes.
8. Stir in the shrimp and cook until they turn pink, about 3-4 minutes.
9. If you prefer a thicker gumbo, add the file powder one teaspoon at a time until the desired consistency is reached.
10. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Add More Heat: If you prefer a spicier gumbo, add more Cajun seasoning or a few dashes of hot sauce.
• Vegetarian Option: Replace the sausage and shrimp with additional vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, and bell peppers for a vegetarian version.
• Different Protein: Swap shrimp with chicken breast, turkey sausage, or any other protein of your choice.
• Thicker Gumbo: If you prefer a thicker gumbo, use more file powder or reduce the broth slightly to achieve your desired consistency.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Reheating: Reheat the gumbo on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. You can also microwave it in short intervals, stirring in between, to heat it evenly.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just make sure they are thawed before adding them to the gumbo.

What is file powder, and is it necessary for this recipe?

File powder is a spice made from ground sassafras leaves. It adds a distinctive flavor and helps thicken the gumbo. It’s optional, but it does contribute to the traditional gumbo texture and flavor.

Can I make this gumbo ahead of time?

Yes, gumbo often tastes better the next day as the flavors continue to meld. You can make it a day ahead and store it in the fridge.

Can I use regular rice instead of cauliflower rice?

For a non-keto version, you can substitute cauliflower rice with regular rice. Just keep in mind that this will increase the carb count.

Is this gumbo spicy?

The gumbo has a mild to medium spice level depending on the amount of Cajun seasoning you use. If you want it spicier, you can add more seasoning or hot sauce to taste.

Can I freeze leftover gumbo?

Yes, gumbo freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then store it in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Reheat thoroughly when you’re ready to serve.

Can I use a different sausage in this recipe?

Yes, if you can’t find Andouille sausage, you can use another type of smoked sausage or even turkey sausage. The flavor will be slightly different, but it will still be delicious.

Is this gumbo gluten-free?

Yes, this Keto Gumbo is naturally gluten-free as it does not contain any flour or breading. Just make sure that your Cajun seasoning and sausage are also gluten-free.

How can I make this gumbo thicker?

You can use file powder, as mentioned in the recipe, or reduce the broth slightly while simmering to get a thicker gumbo.

Can I add more vegetables to this gumbo?

Absolutely! You can add extra vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach to make the gumbo even more hearty and nutritious.

Conclusion

This Keto Gumbo is the perfect combination of savory, spicy, and satisfying flavors, all while staying true to your low-carb lifestyle. With its rich broth, hearty vegetables, and succulent shrimp, it’s a dish that’s sure to please everyone at the table. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this gumbo is a comforting and delicious option that’s both keto-friendly and full of flavor.

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