Gumbo Greens with Cabbage

Welcome to a tasty twist on a Southern classic: Gumbo Greens with Cabbage. Imagine a pot full of comforting gumbo, but with a healthy twist. We’ve packed it with collard greens and cabbage, making it not just delicious but also good for you. This recipe is perfect for anyone wanting a hearty meal that feels like a warm hug. Whether you’re a long-time gumbo lover or just curious, this dish is sure to win you over. It’s all about bringing together rich flavors and wholesome greens. Ready to dive in? Let’s make a gumbo that’s as nourishing as it is flavorful.

Ingredients for Gumbo Greens with Cabbage

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating our delicious and nutritious Gumbo Greens with Cabbage. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1 lb collard greens, washed and chopped for a hearty dose of vitamins and minerals.
• 1/2 lb cabbage, chopped, adding a crunch and boosting the dish’s fiber content.
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil to create the perfect roux base.
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour, which will thicken our gumbo and give it a silky texture.
• 1 onion, quartered, to infuse the broth with a sweet and savory depth.
• 2 partially cooked smoked turkey wings (or one leg), bringing a smoky richness to the dish.
• 1/2 cup bell pepper, chopped, for a pop of color and a hint of sweetness.
• 2 stalks celery, chopped, adding freshness and a slight crunch.
• 1/2 tbsp secondline creole seasoning to spice things up with authentic Southern flavors.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced, for that indispensable garlic aroma and taste.
• 5 cups chicken broth as the flavorful liquid base of our gumbo.
• 1-2 andouille sausage, cut in 1/2 inch pieces, for a spicy, meaty bite.
• 10-12 raw shrimp, deveined and tail off, adding a delicate, seafood sweetness.
• A mix of spices including 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper, 1 tbsp garlic powder, 1/2 tsp celery seed, 1/2 tsp onion powder, 2 tsp smoked paprika, 1/2 tsp salt, 1 tsp oregano, and 1 bay leaf to perfectly season our gumbo.

With these ingredients, we’re set to create a gumbo that’s bursting with flavor and packed with nutrients.

Directions

Let’s get cooking! Follow these steps to bring your Gumbo Greens with Cabbage to life:

1. Start the Broth: Place the smoked turkey wings or leg in a large pot with the chicken broth. Bring to a simmer over medium heat. This step infuses the broth with a rich, smoky flavor.
2. Make the Roux: In a separate pan, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Gradually whisk in the flour, stirring constantly, until the mixture turns a dark brown color. This is your roux, the thickening base for the gumbo.
3. Sauté the Vegetables: Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and celery to the roux. Cook until the vegetables are soft. Then, stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
4. Combine and Simmer: Slowly pour the vegetable and roux mixture into the simmering broth, stirring continuously to blend. Add the chopped collard greens and cabbage, along with all the seasonings and bay leaf. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer. The gumbo should start to thicken and the greens become tender.
5. Add the Meats: After about 50 minutes, remove the turkey from the pot, shred the meat, discarding any bones, and return the meat to the pot. Add the andouille sausage pieces and continue to simmer for about 10 minutes.
6. Finish with Shrimp: Finally, add the shrimp to the pot and cook until they are pink and have a “C” shape, about 5-10 minutes.
7. Serve and Enjoy: Once everything is cooked through and the flavors have melded together, your Gumbo Greens with Cabbage is ready to serve. Enjoy this hearty, flavorful dish with your favorite side of rice or bread.

This step-by-step guide ensures your gumbo is not only delicious but also packed with the goodness of greens and spices. Perfect for a cozy night in or a special gathering with loved ones.

Notes for Perfecting Your Gumbo Greens with Cabbage

Creating the perfect Gumbo Greens with Cabbage is all about the details. Here are some tips to ensure your gumbo turns out just right:

• Roux Patience: The roux, a mix of flour and oil, is the backbone of your gumbo. Cook it over medium heat, stirring constantly, until it reaches a dark brown color. This process can take time, but it’s crucial for developing deep flavors.
• Simmer Slowly: Once all ingredients are in the pot, let your gumbo simmer gently. This slow cooking process melds the flavors together and tenderizes the greens and meat. Rushing this step won’t yield the same rich taste.
• Adjust Seasonings: Taste your gumbo as it cooks and adjust the seasonings to your preference. The creole seasoning, salt, and cayenne pepper can be modified depending on how spicy or flavorful you like your dish.
• Substitutions Welcome: Feel free to substitute ingredients based on availability or dietary restrictions. For a vegetarian version, omit the meat and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Kale can replace collard greens if desired.
• Serving Suggestion: Gumbo is traditionally served over rice, which complements its rich flavors and adds a comforting texture. Prepare a side of rice to soak up the delicious broth.
• Storage Tips: Gumbo tastes even better the next day after the flavors have had more time to blend. Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to three days or freeze for longer storage. Reheat gently, adding a little water or broth if the gumbo has thickened too much.

By keeping these notes in mind, you’ll be well on your way to creating a delicious and soul-warming Gumbo Greens with Cabbage that’s sure to impress.

Nutrition Details:

This Gumbo Greens with Cabbage is not only a delight for your taste buds but also a boon for your health. Here’s a snapshot of the nutritional value you can expect from each serving:

• Calories: Approximately 480 kcal per serving, offering a fulfilling meal without overindulgence.
• Carbohydrates: About 15g, primarily from the vegetables and flour, providing a moderate energy source.
• Protein: Roughly 25g per serving, thanks to the inclusion of turkey, sausage, and shrimp, supporting muscle health and repair.
• Fat: Around 27g, contributed by the vegetable oil and meats, adding richness and flavor.
• Fiber: With 5g of fiber, this dish aids in digestion and promotes heart health, courtesy of the collard greens and cabbage.
• Vitamins and Minerals: A rich source of vitamins A, C, and K, enhancing your immune system, vision, and blood health. It also provides calcium for strong bones and iron for healthy blood.

Please note that these Nutrition Details are estimated values and can vary depending on the specific ingredients and quantities used. Adjustments to ingredient choices or portion sizes will affect the final nutritional content of your gumbo.

FAQs about Gumbo Greens with Cabbage

Q1: Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, you can easily adapt this gumbo to be vegetarian by omitting the turkey wings and sausage and using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Add more vegetables or a plant-based protein like tofu to keep it hearty.

Q2: What if I don’t have andouille sausage?

Andouille sausage adds a specific flavor, but you can substitute it with any smoked sausage you have on hand. The key is to use a sausage that adds a nice depth of flavor.

Q3: How can I adjust the spiciness?

The spiciness in this gumbo comes from the creole seasoning and cayenne pepper. Start with less than the recipe calls for, taste, and then add more gradually until you reach your desired level of heat.

Q4: Is this gumbo gluten-free? As written, the recipe is not gluten-free due to the all-purpose flour used in the roux. However, you can make it gluten-free by using a gluten-free flour blend that works as a thickener.

Q5: Can I freeze leftover gumbo?

Yes, gumbo freezes well. Cool it down completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently on the stove.

Q6: Can I use kale instead of collard greens?

Absolutely! Kale makes a great substitute for collard greens. Just keep in mind that kale may cook a bit faster, so adjust your cooking time accordingly.

Looking for the perfect comfort food to warm you up? Don’t miss our mouth-watering Beef Tips Crock Pot Recipe! It’s an easy, delicious way to make dinner something everyone looks forward to. Click here to discover how to turn simple ingredients into a meal your family will ask for again and again.

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