Gumbo Base Aka Roux
Transform your gumbo game with this rich and velvety *Gumbo Base, aka Roux*, a cornerstone of classic Creole and Cajun cuisine. Made with just two simple ingredients—flour and vegetable oil—this recipe guides you through crafting a deeply flavorful, chocolate-brown roux that forms the foundation of authentic gumbo. With its nutty aroma and smooth texture, this roux infuses your dishes with layers of complexity while showcasing the art of low-and-slow cooking. Perfect for hearty stews, soups, and seafood-filled gumbo, this essential recipe is a must-know technique for any home cook exploring Southern flavors. Ready in just 30 minutes, this gumbo base can also be prepped ahead and stored for quick, flavorful meals anytime.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 1 cup All-purpose flour
- 1 cup Vegetable oil (or another neutral oil like canola)
Instructions
In a heavy-bottomed skillet or pot, combine the all-purpose flour and vegetable oil.
Place the skillet over medium heat and begin stirring the mixture consistently with a wooden spoon or whisk. Be sure to scrape along the bottom of the pan frequently to prevent burning.
As the roux begins to heat, it will start turning colors. First, it will be light beige, then golden, and finally a deep, chocolate brown. This process will typically take around 20-30 minutes—be patient and do not rush by increasing the heat.
Once the roux reaches the desired dark brown color and has a nutty, toasty aroma, remove it from the heat immediately to avoid burning.
Continue stirring for another minute or two to allow it to cool slightly.
Use the roux immediately in your gumbo or let it cool completely before storing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
2466 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 237.9 g | 305% | |
| Saturated Fat | 34.0 g | 170% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 2 mg | 0% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 91.6 g | 33% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 3.3 g | 12% | |
| Total Sugars | 0.3 g | ||
| Protein | 12.4 g | 25% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 16 mg | 1% | |
| Iron | 5.6 mg | 31% | |
| Potassium | 129 mg | 3% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
