Authentic Instant Pot Louisiana Gumbo Recipe

Get ready to bring a taste of the South straight to your dinner table with this Instant Pot Louisiana Gumbo recipe. Packed with smoky sausage, succulent chicken, and plump shrimp, this dish captures the essence of classic Southern flavors in a fraction of the time. The key to this gumbo’s rich and authentic taste lies in the carefully crafted roux, effortlessly achieved using your trusty Instant Pot.

From the first whiff of that nutty roux to the hearty spoonfuls of sausage and shrimp-laden gravy, this Instant Pot Louisiana Gumbo is a true homage to tradition. Whether you’re seeking a quick and soulful meal on a rainy night or looking to impress at a potluck, this recipe has you covered. The blend of Cajun spices, tender proteins, and the unmistakable aroma of a well-made roux will transport you to the bayous of Louisiana with each comforting bite.

Embrace the vibrant flavors and cultural heritage of Louisiana with this Instant Pot Louisiana Gumbo. Let the Instant Pot work its magic as you savor every spoonful of this hearty stew that promises to become a fast favorite at your family table. Get ready to experience the essence of Louisiana cuisine, all in one delicious bowl of gumbo.

Quick Benefits

• Convenient one-pot meal using Instant Pot for quick and easy preparation
• Rich, soulful flavors reminiscent of traditional Southern gumbo recipes
• Versatile recipe allows for ingredient substitutions based on seasonal availability
• Leftovers taste even better the next day, making it a great make-ahead dish

Why You’ll Love This Authentic Instant Pot Louisiana Gumbo Recipe Recipe

• Authentic Southern Flavor: Bring the classic taste of Louisiana to your kitchen with smoky sausage, tender chicken, and plump shrimp in a rich, flavorful gumbo.
• Instant Pot Convenience: Enjoy the soulful taste of slow-cooked gumbo in a fraction of the time with the Instant Pot, perfect for busy nights.
• Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters will love this dish, going back for seconds, making it a go-to dinner hero for busy nights.
• Leftovers Get Better: The flavors of the gumbo deepen overnight, making it a delicious option for meal prep and future meals.
• Versatile Ingredients: Customize the recipe with your favorite proteins and vegetables, like swapping shrimp for crawfish or green beans for okra.
• Cultural Fusion: Experience the blend of French, African, and Native American influences in one iconic stew, celebrating Louisiana’s rich culinary heritage.
• Perfect for All Seasons: Swap ingredients based on the season, with options like fresh peas in spring, local crawfish, or leftover turkey in winter.
• Crowd Pleaser: Ideal for potlucks and gatherings, this gumbo will have friends and family asking for the recipe, making it a hit with all ages.
• Freezer-Friendly: Easily store leftovers in the freezer, ensuring you have a delicious meal ready to go whenever you need it.

Ingredients for Authentic Instant Pot Louisiana Gumbo Recipe

Base

• 1 1/2 cups water
• 1 cup long-grain enriched white rice, rinsed

Proteins

• 1 pound raw shrimp, peeled
• 1 pound skinless chicken breasts
• 10 ounces chicken sausage, sliced

Vegetables

• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup chopped green peppers
• 1 to 2 cups frozen chopped okra
• 1 cup chopped celery
• 1 cup chopped onion

Fats and Thickeners

• 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 tablespoons butter

Liquids

• 24 ounces chicken broth

Seasonings

• Dried basil, to taste
• Thyme, to taste
• 1 bay leaf
• Creole seasoning, to taste
• Cayenne pepper, to taste
• Oregano, to taste

How to Make Authentic Instant Pot Louisiana Gumbo Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Roux

Turn on the sauté function on the Instant Pot. Add olive oil and butter. Once the butter melts, stir in the flour. Cook and stir continuously until the mixture turns deep brown, approximately 10-15 minutes.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

Combine chopped green peppers, celery, and onion with the roux. Sauté for about 5 minutes until vegetables start to soften. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute.

Step 3: Add Proteins and Vegetables

Pour chicken broth into the pot. Add sliced chicken sausage, skinless chicken breasts, frozen okra, bay leaf, dried basil, cayenne pepper, oregano, Creole seasoning, and thyme. Stir well to combine.

Step 4: Pressure Cook

Close the Instant Pot lid and cook on high pressure for 25 minutes. After cooking, release pressure manually following the manufacturer’s guidelines.

Step 5: Incorporate Shrimp

Add raw shrimp to the Instant Pot with the lid off. Saute until shrimp are pink, approximately 5 minutes.

Step 6: Cook and Serve Rice

While the gumbo is cooking, boil 1 1/2 cups of water in a saucepan. Add rinsed rice, cover, reduce heat, and simmer for 15–18 minutes until tender. Serve the gumbo over the cooked rice.

Storage Tips

Once the Instant Pot Louisiana Gumbo with Chicken and Shrimp is cooked, allow it to cool completely before storing. Transfer the cooled gumbo to airtight containers and refrigerate for up to three days. To maintain the fluffy texture of the rice, store it separately from the gumbo. For longer storage, freeze the gumbo in single-serve batches and thaw it in the refrigerator before gently reheating.

To freeze the gumbo, cool it completely and pack it into freezer bags or lidded containers. It’s best to leave out the shrimp and rice before freezing since shrimp should be added fresh as you reheat the gumbo. Thaw the gumbo in the fridge overnight and prepare a fresh pot of rice just before serving. Add the raw shrimp right before eating for the best texture. This flavorful dish is perfect for busy nights or special occasions and will quickly become a family favorite with its hearty depth and vibrant flavor.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you cannot find okra, frozen green beans or a teaspoon of file powder can be used as substitutes for thickening the gumbo. While Andouille sausage is recommended for its smoky flavor, any lean sausage can be used as a suitable alternative. Additionally, bone-in chicken can be swapped for boneless chicken breasts, but be mindful of adjusting the cooking time accordingly to ensure the chicken is fully cooked.

To make the dish gluten-free, you can replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch for thickening the gumbo. For a vegetarian version, omit the chicken, sausage, and shrimp, and instead add more vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or carrots for a hearty and flavorful stew. Experiment with different spices and herbs to tailor the gumbo to your taste preferences while still capturing the essence of Louisiana flavors.

Serving Suggestions

For a creative serving suggestion, try presenting this Instant Pot Louisiana Gumbo in a bread bowl. Hollow out a round loaf of crusty bread and ladle the gumbo inside, allowing the flavors to soak into the bread as it’s being eaten. The combination of the savory gumbo and the slight sweetness of the bread creates a delightful contrast in textures and flavors.

Another fun way to serve this gumbo is in individual mason jars or glass bowls. Layer the rice at the bottom, followed by the gumbo, and top it off with a sprinkle of chopped scallions or parsley. This presentation not only looks visually appealing but also allows your guests to see the layers of ingredients in the dish, making it a unique and interactive dining experience.

FAQs for Authentic Instant Pot Louisiana Gumbo Recipe

Can I use a different type of sausage for this gumbo?

Yes, andouille or smoked sausage work well for authentic flavor, but any preferred cooked sausage is suitable.

What is the key tip when making the roux for this gumbo?

Stir constantly while making the roux and use medium heat; watch for color changes and a nutty aroma.

Can I omit okra from the recipe, or is there a substitute?

Okra thickens and adds classic texture. You may leave it out or substitute with file powder if desired.

Can I make this Louisiana Gumbo on the stovetop instead of using an Instant Pot?

A Dutch oven or heavy pot on the stovetop can be used; adjust cook times for traditional simmering.

Conclusion

I hope this recipe for Instant Pot Louisiana Gumbo brings a taste of the South to your table and fills your home with the comforting aroma of rich flavors and spices. Don’t be afraid to customize this dish with your favorite proteins and seasonal vegetables for a personal touch. Whether you’re cooking for a quick weeknight meal or a lively gathering, this gumbo is sure to be a hit with everyone at the table.

So why not fire up your Instant Pot and treat yourself to a bowl of this hearty and delicious Instant Pot Louisiana Gumbo? Let the flavors transport you to the bayous of Louisiana as you savor each spoonful. With its soulful blend of ingredients and the convenience of the Instant Pot, this gumbo is a must-try for any food lover. Enjoy the process of creating this classic dish and relish every bite of this Instant Pot Louisiana Gumbo!