This Spicy Turkey Gumbo is a warm and hearty dish filled with tender turkey, tasty veggies, and a mix of bold spices. It’s perfect for a cozy dinner!
Make sure to have some rice ready to soak up all that flavorful broth. I love how it warms me up on chilly nights—it’s like a hug in a bowl!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Turkey: Using cooked turkey meat is great for this gumbo. Leftover roasted turkey works well, but if you don’t have any, rotisserie chicken is a good substitute. Just shred it and add to the gumbo!
Smoked Sausage: I like andouille for its smoky flavor, but you can easily swap it for kielbasa or other smoked sausage. For a lighter option, use turkey sausage to keep it healthier.
Okra: Okra is traditional in gumbo, adding thickness. If you’re not a fan or can’t find it, feel free to substitute with diced zucchini or just leave it out altogether. Your gumbo will still taste great!
Spices: The cayenne pepper gives it heat, so adjust it to your preference. If you want less spice, consider using paprika alone, or add a pinch of chili powder for flavor without too much heat.
How Do I Get the Roux Just Right?
Making the roux is a key step in gumbo. It adds rich flavor and color. Here’s how to nail it:
- Heat the oil over medium heat and slowly whisk in the flour.
- Cook, stirring constantly, for about 10-15 minutes until it’s dark brown but not burned. Keep a close eye on it!
- If it starts to smell burnt or look too dark, it’s best to start over.
Don’t rush this step—taking your time here will make your gumbo delicious!
What’s the Best Way to Simmer the Gumbo?
Simmering is crucial for blending all the flavors together. Here’s how to do it:
- Once the ingredients are added, bring the mixture to a boil.
- Lower the heat to a gentle simmer. This allows the flavors to meld without the gumbo boiling over.
- Let it cook uncovered for 30-45 minutes. Stir occasionally.
As the gumbo simmers and thickens, taste it and adjust the salt and pepper before serving. Enjoy the process and savor the aromas filling your kitchen!
Spicy Turkey Gumbo
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Base:
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 jalapeño, sliced (seeds removed for less heat, optional)
- For the Seasoning:
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- For the Liquid and Protein:
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 cups cooked turkey meat, shredded or chopped
- 1 cup smoked sausage, sliced (e.g., andouille or kielbasa)
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, drained
- 1 cup okra, sliced (fresh or frozen)
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- Salt to taste
- For Garnish:
- 2-3 green onions, sliced
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Cooked white rice for serving
Time Estimate
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and around 45 minutes to cook. So, in total, you’ll need roughly 1 hour to enjoy your delicious Spicy Turkey Gumbo!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Roux:
In a large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Gradually whisk in the flour. Keep whisking constantly for about 10-15 minutes until the roux reaches a rich dark brown color (like chocolate) but be careful not to let it burn.
2. Add the Vegetables:
Stir in the chopped onion, bell pepper, celery, garlic, and jalapeño. Cook everything together for about 5 minutes until the vegetables become soft and the aroma fills the kitchen!
3. Add Spices:
Now, stir in the smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, thyme, oregano, and black pepper. Cook for another minute until the spices are fragrant and mix well into your veggies.
4. Add Liquids and Main Ingredients:
Gradually pour in the chicken broth while stirring to combine smoothly with the roux. Next, add in the cooked turkey, smoked sausage, drained diced tomatoes, okra, and Worcestershire sauce. Give it a good stir!
5. Simmer:
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer uncovered for 30-45 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the gumbo to thicken slightly and flavors to meld. Don’t forget to adjust salt and cayenne pepper to your liking.
6. Serve:
Ladle the hearty gumbo over cooked white rice. Garnish with sliced green onions and chopped parsley for a fresh touch.
7. Enjoy:
Dig into a cozy bowl of your Spicy Turkey Gumbo, rich with smoky sausage, tender turkey, and just the right amount of heat. Perfect for any occasion!
This recipe embraces traditional gumbo flavors with a spicy twist and tender turkey for a comforting Southern classic! Enjoy your cooking adventure!
Can I Use Frozen Turkey in This Recipe?
Absolutely! If using frozen turkey, make sure to thaw it completely before cooking. The best method is to leave it in the fridge overnight. If you’re short on time, you can also use the microwave, but be cautious not to cook it.
How Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
You can easily adjust the spice level by modifying the amount of cayenne pepper and jalapeño. For a milder gumbo, reduce or omit the cayenne and jalapeño, and you can even add a little extra smoked paprika for flavor without the heat.
What Can I Substitute for Okra?
If you’re not a fan of okra, you can substitute it with diced zucchini or bell peppers. Alternatively, you can simply omit it for a different texture while still keeping the gumbo delicious.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover gumbo in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat it on the stove or in the microwave, adding a little chicken broth or water if it thickens too much while sitting.
