I have only been to New Orleans once but that was enough to make me a fan of good down home Louisiana seafood gumbo. Nothing truly compares to the gumbo you get from the folks who created this delicious goodness. Although I have tried gumbo in several restaurants in the North East, I have not found one that can top the real down home version. Not even mine. However, my recipe will still make you want to go for a second bowl.

Rich with seafood, spicy and filling my gumbo may remind you of soft jazz and hot summer nights. That is what I remember from my trip to New Orleans.

Soft jazz, funky jazz, Cajun music and Zydeco flowed from every venue as we walked up and down the streets. The smells coming from the restaurants!?! What can I say except that my mouth was watering all day long.

If you ever have an opportunity to experience the culture and foods of New Orleans, take it. I am sure the trip will be memorable whether it’s because of the food, the music or the friendly “Nawlins” people. No matter what, you will remember…..

Seafood Gumbo D. Marie Style

Ingredients:
3 tilapia fillets cut into bite size pieces
1 lb lump crabmeat (remove shells)
1 lb langostinos
1 lb large sea scallops cut in half
2 lbs ex-large shrimp peeled and deveined
1 12 oz bottle of good Beer
1 cup chicken broth
2 tbsp olive oil

Veggies
¾ cup celery chopped
1 cup red pepper finely chopped
1 cup green pepper finely chopped
1 small jalapeno pepper seeded chopped
½ cup minced shallots
2 garlic cloves chopped
1 small onion chopped
½ cup fresh parsley chopped
1 15 oz can black beans rinsed
1 15 oz can small white beans rinsed

Spices
1 tbsp salt
1 tbsp black pepper
½ tsp Worcestershire sauce
1 ½ small cans tomato paste
½ tsp red pepper flakes
1 tsp dried basil
1 tsp oregano
1 bay leaf

1 cup of Okra is optional. If adding okra to the dish, trim off only the stem. Do not cut off the top of the okra or it will become slimy. Add along with seafood and gently stir into the Gumbo.

In a heavy pot heat oil over medium heat until hot. Saute red pepper, green pepper, celery, shallots, onions and garlic until onions are soft. Slowly stir in beer and chicken broth. Add Worcestershire, parsley, seasonings and tomato paste. Whisk until well blended. Add beans, fish, crabmeat, langostinos and scallops, . Place lid on pot and reduce heat to simmer for 30 minutes. Lay shrimp on top of mixture 15 minutes prior to serving and cook until they turn pink. Gently stir shrimp into gumbo mixture.

Grab a piece of crusty bread or cornbread and eat up!