Easy New Orleans Style Gumbo in an Instant Pot

What’s Up, Hungry People

Gumbo is a traditional New Orleans stew that is made up of a variety of meats and veggies. Straight from the bayou and into my Instant Pot, this southern classic is packed with incredible flavor.

There are many kinds of gumbo, but classic gumbo consists primarily of a flavorful stock, a roux or thickener, and the “holy trinity” of vegetables: celery, bell peppers, and onions.

Gumbo is usually served with a generous helping of white rice—which I didn’t happen to have handy when I was making my recipe! Instead, I used wild rice that I cooked ahead of time in the Instant Pot.

Here’s What You Need

• Butter: Adds richness and a base for sautéing vegetables.
• Red onion: Provides a mild, sweet flavor when cooked.
• Red & yellow bell pepper: Adds sweetness and vibrant color to the dish.
• Celery: Offers a slight crunch and fresh, earthy notes.
• Okra: Thickens the gumbo and contributes a distinct texture.
• Jalapeno: Infuses a mild heat that balances the flavors.
• Roma tomatoes: Give a fresh, acidic lift to the overall taste.
• Garlic: Introduces a pungent aroma and deepens the flavor profile.
• Thyme: Brings a subtle, earthy herbal touch.
• Sea salt: Enhances other flavors in the gumbo.
• White pepper: Adds a sharp, understated heat without the boldness of black pepper.
• Andouille sausage: Introduces a smoky, spicy meat element.
• Oregano: Provides a hint of bitterness with a slightly sweet undertone.
• Basil: Offers a sweet and fragrant aroma to the mix.
• Cayenne pepper: Delivers a spicy kick that lingers.
• Old Bay seasoning: Combines multiple spices for a complex flavor profile.
• Flour: Used to thicken the gumbo, creating a hearty texture.
• Tomato paste: Concentrates the tomato flavor for more depth.
• Seafood stock: Enhances the seafood flavors with a rich base.
• Chicken stock: Adds depth and richness to the broth.
• Rice: Serves as a hearty, comforting base that absorbs gumbo flavors.
• Lime: Adds a zesty, fresh finish to cut through the richness.
• Shrimp: Provides a delicate, sweet seafood flavor.
• Crab meat: Offers a rich, sweet taste and luxurious texture.
• Parsley: Freshens up the dish and adds a pop of color.

Let’s Cook

Preparing the Rice

First things first, let’s get that rice cooking so it’s ready to go when we need it. Grab a cup of wild or white rice and mix it with one and a half cups of water right in your Instant Pot. Hit the “rice” setting, seal the valve, and let it do its thing for twenty minutes. Once it beeps, give it a quick release—watch your hands, though, that steam is hot! Fluff it up with a fork and set it aside in a large bowl. Keep it covered so it stays warm.

Sautéing the Veggies

Now, switch your Instant Pot to “sauté” mode. Once it’s hot, melt the butter until it’s frothy. Toss in the chopped onions, bell peppers, celery, okra, jalapenos, and tomatoes. Stir them around for about 5-6 minutes until they soften and mingle well with each other.

Building the Flavor

Next, stir in the minced garlic, thyme, sea salt, and white pepper. These will start to perfume your kitchen with some seriously good smells. Add in the sliced Andouille sausage and let them sizzle just until they begin to brown. This is about building layers of flavor, so take your time here.

Thicken and Combine

Sprinkle in your oregano, basil, cayenne pepper, and Old Bay seasoning. Now, here’s a key move: sift the flour over everything in the pot. Mix it gently but thoroughly so everything is nicely coated. Then, stir in the tomato paste followed by pouring in both the chicken and seafood stocks. Keep stirring until everything is beautifully combined and the flour is well incorporated into the liquids.

Pressure Cooking

Put the lid on your Instant Pot, lock it in place, and switch to “pressure cook” mode. Set it to “normal” for about 6 minutes. It’ll take some time to pressurize before the cooking begins, but that’s when you can take a breather. After those 6 minutes, let the pressure release naturally for about 15 minutes, or if you’re in a rush, do a quick release.

Adding the Seafood

Turn the Instant Pot back to “sauté” mode. This is the time to gently fold in your cooked rice if you choose to mix it directly into the gumbo. Then, toss in the shrimp and crab meat and squeeze in that fresh lime juice. Let it all cook together for another 3-4 minutes until the shrimp are pink and perfectly tender.

Gumbo Tips: Perfecting Your Pot

• Pre-cook your rice: To avoid overcooking or integration issues, cook your rice separately in the Instant Pot before starting the gumbo. This ensures that the rice is perfectly fluffy and ready to absorb the rich gumbo flavors without becoming mushy.
• Manage the heat: If you’re sensitive to spice, adjust the amount of jalapeno and cayenne pepper to suit your taste. Start with less and add more as needed after tasting.
• Sauté vegetables until tender: Properly sautéing your vegetables until they are just tender helps develop the flavors and textures of the gumbo. Don’t rush this step, as it builds the foundation of the dish’s taste.
• Thoroughly mix the roux: Ensure the flour is fully mixed into the fat to cook off the raw flavor, forming a perfect base to thicken your gumbo. A well-prepared roux is crucial for a smooth consistency.
• Add seafood at the end: To keep shrimp and crab tender and juicy, add them towards the end of cooking. This prevents overcooking and ensures they remain succulent and flavorful.
• Adjust seasoning before serving: Gumbo flavors develop as they cook, so it’s essential to taste and adjust the seasoning just before serving. This final adjustment can make all the difference, ensuring a balanced and delicious bowl of gumbo.

Wrapping up, this Instant Pot gumbo is all about bringing the vibrant and soulful tastes of New Orleans into your kitchen with less effort and more enjoyment. This recipe cleverly utilizes the Instant Pot to simplify the traditional slow-cooked process without sacrificing the depth of flavor that gumbo is famous for. Whether it’s a chilly evening or you’re just in the mood for something hearty, this gumbo fits the bill perfectly. The combination of spicy sausage, tender seafood, and the holy trinity of vegetables makes each spoonful a celebration of flavors.

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