Gumbo is a soup or a stew typical for regions of Louisiana and South Carolina.The dish consists of two main ingredients: broth and rice.You can find Gumbo Recipes all over the United States!
The word gumbo comes from African word kigombo what means okra.
Using okra to provide a flavor base is an old tradition.
Gumbo Recipes can contain any kind of meat you want to add.Recipe theme may be different from region to region.
The rice used in gumbo is not cooked,it is added to the dish after the dish is served. You can then add to the dish whatever type of meat and vegetables you like ,once the broth is made.For example you can add shrimps,oysters,crab meat,tasso etc.Gumbo is consumed mostly during cold winter days because of its hearty consistence.Creole Gumbo is consumed mostly in Southern US States and it is a mix of African,Spanish and French cuisine.It has more vegetable than traditional gumbo like tomatoes,herbs,onlins and green peppers.Gumbo is supposed to have a subtle flavor so spices are used lightly.
Mardi Gras celebrations in Lousiana serve Gumbo as a traditional dish,where it is often served by masked horse riders.