Cajun Ninja Gumbo Recipe

Stewart Martha

17 Jun, 2023

Cajun Ninja Gumbo Recipe: A Flavorful and Authentic Louisiana Delight

Cajun Ninja Gumbo

Publisher: Lofty Recipes
Cuisine: Cajun%/span> / Creole
Category: Main dish
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 60 minutes
Servings: 6
Calories: 400 calories

About this recipe

Cajun Ninja Gumbo is a delicious and hearty dish that hails from the Cajun and Creole cuisine of Louisiana. It's a rich and flavorful stew-like soup that combines a variety of ingredients to create a true taste sensation.

To prepare Cajun Ninja Gumbo, you start by making a dark brown roux, which is a mixture of vegetable oil and flour. This roux gives the gumbo its distinctive color and adds a deep, nutty flavor to the dish. It requires some patience and constant stirring to achieve the perfect color without burning it.

Once the roux is ready, you add a trinity of diced onions, bell peppers, and celery to the pot, along with minced garlic. This aromatic combination forms the flavor base of many Cajun and Creole dishes. The vegetables are cooked until they become tender and start to release their flavors.

Next comes the protein. Smoked sausage, chicken, and shrimp are the stars of this gumbo. The smoked sausage brings a smoky and savory element, while the chicken adds heartiness. The shrimp is added towards the end of the cooking process to prevent overcooking and ensure they remain tender.

To further enhance the flavors, canned diced tomatoes and chicken broth are added to the pot. The tomatoes contribute a tangy sweetness and a hint of acidity, while the chicken broth provides a savory base.

A medley of herbs and spices, including bay leaves, thyme, oregano, paprika, and cayenne pepper, add depth and a touch of heat to the gumbo. Seasoning with salt and pepper is done to taste.

The gumbo is then simmered over low heat, allowing all the ingredients to meld together and develop a harmonious flavor profile. The aroma that fills the kitchen is simply irresistible, building anticipation for the final dish.

Traditionally, Cajun Ninja Gumbo is served over a bed of fluffy white rice, which helps soak up the flavorful broth. The dish is garnished with chopped green onions, adding freshness and a pop of color.

With each spoonful, you'll experience a delightful combination of smoky sausage, tender chicken, succulent shrimp, and a medley of vegetables, all swimming in a rich, savory broth. The Cajun and Creole spices infuse the gumbo with warmth and complexity, making it a comforting and satisfying meal.

Cajun Ninja Gumbo is perfect for gatherings or a cozy dinner at home. It brings the vibrant and bold flavors of Louisiana right to your table, transporting you to the heart of Cajun country. So grab a bowl, dig in, and savor the taste of this authentic and delicious Cajun dish.

Recipe origin and background

The Cajun Ninja Gumbo recipe is inspired by the rich culinary heritage of Louisiana, particularly the Cajun and Creole cooking traditions. Cajun cuisine originated from the French Acadians who settled in the region, while Creole cuisine developed in New Orleans, influenced by French, Spanish, African, and Caribbean flavors.

Gumbo itself is a staple dish in Louisiana, often referred to as the state's official cuisine. It has a fascinating history, reflecting the diverse cultural influences in the region.

The dish's roots can be traced back to West Africa, where okra was commonly used as a thickening agent in soups and stews. When Africans were brought to Louisiana as slaves, they adapted their cooking techniques and ingredients to the local resources.

The term "gumbo" is derived from the West African word for okra, "ki ngombo" or "gombo." Over time, gumbo evolved to incorporate other ingredients like seafood, sausage, poultry, and a variety of vegetables, resulting in the flavorful and robust dish we know today.

The Cajun Ninja Gumbo recipe, as popularized by the Cajun Ninja YouTube channel and social media presence, puts a modern spin on the classic gumbo by incorporating influences from Cajun cooking.

The Cajun Ninja, a Louisiana native, showcases his love for the state's cuisine through entertaining and informative cooking videos, sharing his unique twists on traditional recipes.

The Cajun Ninja Gumbo recipe showcases the signature elements of Cajun cuisine, such as the use of smoked sausage, bold spices, and a dark roux. It combines the Cajun flavor profiles with the richness of a traditional gumbo, resulting in a delicious and satisfying dish.

Why try this Cajun Ninja Gumbo recipe?

Authentic Louisiana Flavor: The Cajun Ninja Gumbo captures the essence of Louisiana cuisine, known for its bold and robust flavors. It brings together a harmonious blend of spices, meats, seafood, and vegetables to create a truly authentic taste experience.
Hearty and Satisfying: Gumbo is a hearty and filling dish, making it perfect for satisfying your appetite and warming your soul. Packed with sausage, chicken, shrimp, and vegetables, this gumbo recipe offers a diverse range of textures and flavors in every spoonful.
Culinary Exploration: Trying new recipes allows you to expand your culinary repertoire and explore different regional cuisines. Cajun Ninja Gumbo offers a glimpse into the vibrant and diverse food culture of Louisiana, allowing you to discover and appreciate its unique flavors.
Impressive for Guests: Whether you're hosting a dinner party or simply want to impress your family and friends, serving Cajun Ninja Gumbo will undoubtedly leave a lasting impression. Its rich aroma, vibrant colors, and complex flavors are sure to make any meal memorable.
Customization and Adaptability: While the recipe provides a solid foundation, Cajun Ninja Gumbo allows room for customization and adaptation. You can adjust the spice level, experiment with different proteins or vegetables, and make it uniquely your own.
Cultural Significance: Gumbo is deeply rooted in the cultural heritage of Louisiana, particularly in Cajun and Creole traditions. By preparing and enjoying Cajun Ninja Gumbo, you can connect with the history, stories, and traditions of this vibrant culinary culture.
Comforting and Nourishing: Gumbo is the epitome of comfort food. Its warm and flavorful broth, combined with tender meats and vegetables, provides a nourishing and satisfying meal that can uplift your spirits and provide a sense of culinary comfort.

So, step into the world of Cajun Ninja Gumbo and embark on a culinary adventure that promises authentic flavors, delightful textures, and a true taste of Louisiana's rich heritage.

What does Cajun Ninja Gumbo taste like?

Cajun Ninja Gumbo offers a rich and complex flavor profile that is sure to tantalize your taste buds. It combines a harmonious blend of smoky, savory, and slightly spicy elements, resulting in a truly satisfying dish.

The first thing you'll notice is the deep, nutty undertones from the dark roux. It adds a distinct richness and depth to the gumbo, creating a velvety texture and a toasty flavor that forms the foundation of the dish.

As you take a spoonful, you'll encounter the savory and smoky notes from the smoked sausage. The sausage imparts a robust, meaty flavor that complements the other ingredients and provides a satisfying umami element.

The chicken in the gumbo adds another layer of heartiness. It absorbs the flavors of the roux and spices, contributing a tender and juicy texture to the dish.

The shrimp, a quintessential seafood addition to gumbo, brings a delicate sweetness and a slight brininess to the mix. They cook quickly and remain tender, offering a pleasant contrast to the other meaty components.

The combination of vegetables, including onion, bell pepper, celery, and garlic, adds a fresh and aromatic dimension to the gumbo. They infuse the dish with a subtle sweetness, earthiness, and a touch of pungency, contributing to its overall complexity.

The herbs and spices, such as bay leaves, thyme, oregano, paprika, and cayenne pepper, provide layers of flavor. The herbs impart a hint of earthiness and freshness, while the spices bring warmth and a gentle kick of heat. The cayenne pepper can be adjusted to suit your spice preference, allowing you to customize the level of heat in the gumbo.

The combination of all these flavors creates a well-balanced and satisfying taste experience. Each spoonful offers a delightful mix of smoky sausage, tender chicken, succulent shrimp, and a medley of vegetables, all bathed in a flavorful broth.

The Cajun Ninja Gumbo strikes a perfect balance between richness, depth, and a touch of spiciness, making it a comforting and flavorful dish that embodies the essence of Louisiana's culinary traditions.

The taste of Cajun Ninja Gumbo is bold, savory, and deeply satisfying, showcasing the best of Cajun and Creole flavors in one delicious bowl.

What is in Cajun Ninja Gumbo?

Vegetable Oil: This is used as the base for making the roux and adds richness to the dish.
All-Purpose Flour: It is combined with vegetable oil to create a roux, which serves as a thickening agent and adds flavor to the gumbo.
Onion, Bell Pepper, and Celery: Known as the "holy trinity" in Cajun and Creole cooking, these aromatic vegetables provide a flavorful base for the gumbo.
Garlic: Adds a pungent and aromatic element to the dish, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
Smoked Sausage: A key ingredient in Cajun cuisine, smoked sausage brings a smoky and savory taste to the gumbo, complementing the other ingredients.
Chicken Thighs: Boneless and skinless chicken thighs are added for their tender texture and contribute to the overall heartiness of the dish.
Shrimp: Peeled and deveined shrimp are a classic addition to gumbo, offering a delicate sweetness and seafood flavor.
Diced Tomatoes: Canned diced tomatoes add tanginess, a touch of sweetness, and acidity to balance the flavors of the gumbo.
Chicken Broth: Provides a savory base for the gumbo, adding depth of flavor and enhancing the overall richness of the dish.
Bay Leaves: These aromatic leaves contribute a subtle herbal note to the gumbo.
Dried Thyme and Oregano: These herbs add earthy and aromatic flavors to the dish, enhancing its overall complexity.
Paprika: Adds a mild smoky flavor and a reddish hue to the gumbo.
Cayenne Pepper: Provides a gentle heat and spice to the gumbo. The amount can be adjusted based on personal preference.
Salt and Pepper: Used for seasoning the gumbo to taste, enhancing the flavors of the other ingredients.
Green Onions: Chopped green onions are used as a garnish, adding freshness and a pop of color to the finished dish.
Cooked White Rice: Typically served alongside gumbo, it acts as a base to soak up the flavorful broth.

Equipments you should have on hand

Large Pot or Dutch Oven: A large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven is essential for cooking the gumbo. It should have enough capacity to accommodate all the ingredients and allow for simmering. A substitute for a Dutch oven can be a deep, sturdy pot with a tight-fitting lid.
Wooden Spoon or Spatula: A wooden spoon or spatula is useful for stirring the gumbo, especially when making the roux. It helps prevent sticking and ensures even cooking. A heat-resistant silicone spatula can be used as a substitute.
Cutting Board and Knife: A cutting board and a sharp knife are necessary for chopping vegetables, slicing sausage, and preparing the ingredients. Opt for a cutting board with a non-slip surface and a knife suitable for cutting meats and vegetables.
Ladle: A ladle will come in handy for serving the gumbo into bowls. It allows you to portion out the gumbo and distribute the broth and ingredients evenly. If you don't have a ladle, a large serving spoon can be used instead.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurement of ingredients is crucial for the success of the recipe. Use measuring cups and spoons to ensure the right balance of flavors. If you don't have specific measuring cups, you can use standard kitchen cups and spoons with equivalent measurements.
Timer: A timer, either a dedicated kitchen timer or a smartphone app, is helpful to keep track of cooking times and ensure that the gumbo is simmered for the recommended duration.
Serving Bowls and Spoons: Once the gumbo is cooked, you'll need bowls and spoons for serving. Choose bowls with sufficient capacity to hold the gumbo along with rice and garnishes. Any type of soup or serving bowls can work, depending on your preference.
Optional: If desired, you may also use a roux whisk or a wire whisk for smoothly incorporating the roux into the gumbo and preventing lumps.

How to make Cajun Ninja Gumbo

Try our Cajun Ninja Gumbo recipe for an authentic taste of Louisiana. This flavorful and hearty dish is packed with sausage, chicken, shrimp, and vegetables. Perfect for a soul-satisfying meal!

Ingredients

1/2 cup vegetable oil
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1 large onion, diced
1 bell pepper, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 pound smoked sausage, sliced
1 pound chicken thighs, boneless and skinless, cut into small pieces
1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 ounces)
4 cups chicken broth
2 bay leaves
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
Salt and pepper to taste
1 bunch green onions, chopped
Cooked white rice for serving

Instructions

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the flour and stir constantly to make a roux. Continue stirring the roux until it reaches a dark brown color, similar to the color of a copper penny. Be careful not to burn it.
Add the diced onion, bell pepper, celery, and minced garlic to the pot. Stir and cook for about 5 minutes, until the vegetables begin to soften.
Add the sliced smoked sausage to the pot and cook for another 5 minutes, allowing it to brown slightly.
Next, add the chicken pieces to the pot and cook until they are no longer pink, about 8-10 minutes.
Pour in the diced tomatoes and chicken broth. Stir well to combine.
Add the bay leaves, dried thyme, dried oregano, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir to mix all the ingredients together.
Bring the gumbo to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for about 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
About 10 minutes before serving, add the shrimp to the gumbo. Cook until the shrimp turn pink and are cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
Remove the bay leaves from the pot and discard them.
Serve the gumbo over cooked white rice. Garnish with chopped green onions.

How to serve Cajun Ninja Gumbo

Serving Cajun Ninja Gumbo is a delightful experience that involves presenting the flavorful dish and allowing your guests to enjoy its deliciousness. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to serve Cajun Ninja Gumbo:

Prepare Rice: Start by cooking a batch of white rice according to the package instructions. Fluffy white rice is traditionally served alongside gumbo to soak up the flavorful broth.
Set the Table: Arrange your dining table or serving area with bowls, spoons, and any additional condiments or garnishes you'd like to offer alongside the gumbo. This can include hot sauce, chopped green onions, and additional spices for those who prefer extra heat or flavor.
Ladle Gumbo into Bowls: Using a ladle, carefully scoop the gumbo into individual serving bowls. Make sure each bowl receives a generous amount of the flavorful broth, along with a good mix of the sausage, chicken, shrimp, and vegetables.
Add Rice: Place a scoop of cooked white rice on top of each bowl of gumbo. The rice will soak up the broth and add a comforting and hearty element to the dish.
Garnish: Sprinkle chopped green onions over the gumbo bowls as a fresh and colorful garnish. This adds a pop of flavor and enhances the presentation of the dish.
Serve Hot: Cajun Ninja Gumbo is best served hot, so be sure to serve it immediately after it has finished cooking. The aromatic steam rising from the bowls will entice your guests and enhance the overall experience.
Accompaniments: Provide additional condiments or spices, such as hot sauce or cayenne pepper, at the table to allow your guests to adjust the spiciness of their gumbo according to their taste preferences.
Enjoy: Finally, invite your guests to dig in and savor the flavors of the Cajun Ninja Gumbo. Encourage them to mix the rice with the gumbo and enjoy each spoonful, appreciating the complex flavors and textures in every bite.

Rated: 4.9 of 5.0 from 587 reviews.

Recipe Tags: Cajun Ninja Gumbo, Cajun Ninja Gumbo Recipe, Recipe, Top rated

What to serve Cajun Ninja Gumbo with

Cajun Ninja Gumbo is a substantial and flavorful dish on its own, but you can enhance your meal by serving it with a few accompaniments. Here are some ideas for what you can serve with Cajun Ninja Gumbo:

Cornbread: A classic Southern side dish, cornbread pairs wonderfully with gumbo. Its slightly sweet and crumbly texture complements the rich and savory flavors of the gumbo.
Crusty French Bread: Serve a warm and crusty French bread loaf alongside the gumbo. It's perfect for dipping into the flavorful broth or savoring with each spoonful.
Salad: Balance the richness of the gumbo with a refreshing salad. A simple green salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a tangy vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the hearty gumbo.
Steamed Rice: In addition to having rice in the gumbo, you can also serve steamed rice separately. This allows your guests to customize their portion of rice to their liking and control the rice-to-gumbo ratio according to their preferences.
Coleslaw: A cool and tangy coleslaw can offer a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the gumbo. Its crisp texture and creamy dressing provide a nice balance to the warmth and heartiness of the dish.
Pickles or Pickled Vegetables: Pickles, such as dill pickles or pickled okra, can provide a tangy and crunchy element to accompany the gumbo. The acidity and bright flavors of the pickles can help cut through the richness of the stew.
Okra: As okra is a key ingredient in gumbo, serving additional sautéed or fried okra as a side dish can enhance the overall meal. The okra's unique flavor and texture will complement the gumbo's flavors and add another layer of authenticity.
Collard Greens: Cooked collard greens can be a hearty and flavorful side dish for gumbo. They offer a slightly bitter and earthy taste that pairs well with the robust flavors of the gumbo.

My recommendations and tips

Familiarize Yourself with the Recipe: Before you start cooking, read through the recipe thoroughly. Take note of the ingredients, measurements, and cooking steps. This will help you understand the process and ensure you have all the necessary ingredients and equipment ready.
Prepare Ingredients in Advance: Gumbo involves chopping vegetables, slicing sausage, and preparing the roux. To make the cooking process smoother, consider prepping the ingredients in advance. Chop the vegetables, slice the sausage, and measure out the spices. This way, you can focus on cooking and assembling the gumbo more efficiently.
Pay Attention to the Roux: The roux is a critical element in gumbo. It provides flavor, thickness, and richness to the dish. When making the roux, be patient and stir continuously to prevent it from burning. Adjust the heat if needed and aim for a dark brown color, but be cautious not to let it become too dark and bitter.
Season Gradually: Seasoning is key in Cajun cuisine, so be mindful of the salt, pepper, and spices you add to the gumbo. It's always easier to add more seasoning later if needed, so start with a smaller amount and taste as you go. This will allow you to adjust the flavors to your preference without over-seasoning the dish.
Cook Gumbo Low and Slow: Gumbo benefits from a slow and gentle cooking process to allow the flavors to meld together. Once all the ingredients are added, lower the heat to a simmer and let the gumbo cook for an extended period. This will give the flavors time to develop and create a rich and flavorful dish.
Adjust Consistency: Gumbo should have a thick and hearty consistency, but you can adjust it to your liking. If you prefer a thinner gumbo, you can add more chicken broth or water. On the other hand, if you prefer it thicker, let it simmer uncovered for a longer time to reduce and concentrate the flavors.
Serve with Confidence: When serving the gumbo, be confident in presenting your creation. Garnish the bowls with chopped green onions, and ensure each serving has a generous portion of sausage, chicken, shrimp, and vegetables. Pair it with your chosen accompaniments, such as rice or cornbread, to complete the meal.
Enjoy the Process and Flavors: Cooking and enjoying Cajun Ninja Gumbo is not just about the end result but also about the experience. Embrace the aromas, flavors, and textures as you cook, and savor the deliciousness of the final dish. Don't be afraid to make it your own by adjusting spices or adding personal touches to suit your taste.

Potential ingredients substitutes

Vegetable Oil: Can be substituted with canola oil, sunflower oil, or any other neutral-tasting oil.
All-Purpose Flour: If you have dietary restrictions or prefer a gluten-free option, you can use a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch as a substitute.
Onion, Bell Pepper, and Celery: These vegetables form the classic "holy trinity" in Cajun and Creole cooking. If you don't have one of these ingredients or prefer alternatives, you can use shallots instead of onions, poblano peppers instead of bell peppers, and fennel instead of celery. While the flavors will differ slightly, they can still add a delicious twist to the gumbo.
Garlic: If you don't have fresh garlic on hand, you can use garlic powder or granulated garlic as a substitute. Adjust the amount based on your taste preferences.
Smoked Sausage: Andouille sausage is the traditional choice for Cajun gumbo. If you can't find it or prefer a milder flavor, you can use other smoked sausages like kielbasa or chorizo. Alternatively, you can replace it with chicken or turkey sausage for a healthier option.
Chicken Thighs: Chicken breast can be used as a substitute for chicken thighs. Keep in mind that chicken breast tends to be drier, so take care not to overcook it.
Shrimp: If you're allergic to shellfish or prefer a different protein, you can substitute the shrimp with cooked chicken, diced fish, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
Diced Tomatoes: If you prefer fresh tomatoes or have them on hand, you can dice them and use them as a substitute for canned diced tomatoes.
Chicken Broth: Vegetable broth or seafood broth can be used as a substitute for chicken broth. For a richer flavor, you can use homemade stock instead of store-bought broth.
Bay Leaves, Dried Thyme, Oregano, Paprika, Cayenne Pepper: These herbs and spices add distinct flavors to the gumbo. If you're missing one or more of them, you can still proceed with the recipe, as the gumbo will still have a delicious flavor profile.
Salt and Pepper: These can be adjusted according to your taste preferences or omitted if you prefer to reduce sodium intake.
Green Onions: If you don't have green onions, you can use chopped chives or finely sliced regular onions as a substitute for the garnish.
Cooked White Rice: For a low-carb or grain-free option, you can serve the gumbo with cauliflower rice or omit the rice altogether.

Additional note

Gumbo Variations: While Cajun Ninja Gumbo is a popular and delicious version, it's worth mentioning that there are various regional and personal variations of gumbo. Different regions and cooks may incorporate their own unique ingredients, such as crab, crawfish, or even duck. So, don't be afraid to experiment and personalize the recipe to suit your tastes and ingredient availability.
Cooking Time: Gumbo is a dish that benefits from longer cooking times to allow the flavors to develop fully. The recipe provided earlier includes approximate cooking times, but keep in mind that the specific cooking time may vary depending on factors such as the heat level, pot size, and desired consistency. It's best to cook the gumbo until the flavors have melded together and the meat is tender.
Leftovers and Reheating: Gumbo tends to taste even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When reheating, you may need to add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen the gumbo's consistency, as it tends to thicken when chilled.
Freezing Gumbo: Gumbo can be frozen for future enjoyment. Allow the gumbo to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers or freezer bags. It's a good idea to freeze individual portions for easier thawing and reheating. Gumbo can typically be stored in the freezer for up to three months.
Customizing Spice Level: The spiciness of gumbo can be adjusted to suit your taste preferences. The recipe provides a moderate level of heat with cayenne pepper, but you can increase or decrease the amount to make it spicier or milder, respectively. It's always advisable to taste and adjust the seasoning gradually until you achieve the desired level of spiciness.
Gumbo as a One-Pot Meal: Cajun Ninja Gumbo is a hearty and satisfying one-pot meal on its own, with a variety of proteins and vegetables. However, you can also serve it alongside other dishes if you're looking to create a more extensive meal spread. Consider offering appetizers, such as hush puppies or fried green tomatoes, and desserts like beignets or pecan pie to round out the meal.
Cultural Significance: Gumbo holds cultural significance in Louisiana and is considered a staple dish in Cajun and Creole cuisine. It reflects the diverse culinary heritage of the region, blending influences from African, French, Spanish, and Native American cultures. Embrace the cultural significance of gumbo and appreciate the flavors and traditions it represents.

Final Remark

Unlock the true essence of Louisiana cuisine with our Cajun Ninja Gumbo recipe. Embrace the bold flavors, rich textures, and cultural heritage of this classic dish. Get ready to delight your taste buds and impress your guests with this unforgettable culinary experience.