Gumbo

Step 1

For the roasted okra: Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.

Step 2

Toss the okra with some olive oil, then spread in a baking sheet. Bake until cooked through, about 15 minutes.

Step 3

For the blackening spice: Stir together the paprika, salt, pepper, cayenne, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano and thyme in a jar.

Step 4

For the gumbo: Saute sausage, garlic, celery, onion and peppers in 1/2 cup olive oil in a saucepot until veggies are soft.

Step 5

Mix flour with canola oil and remaining 1/2 cup olive oil in a saute pan over medium heat and cook until dark brown, then add to veggie pot. Add 1/4 cup blackening spice (save the remainder for another use). Add stock, chicken, pork, tomatoes, file, oregano, thyme and bay leaf, then add salt and pepper to taste. Bring to a boil and let simmer for 45 minutes.

Step 6

Mix the okra in with the rest of the gumbo. Serve with rice or cornbread.