Make It Smokin’ Hot: Gumbo with Truboy BBQ's Smoked Jalapeno Cheddar Sausage

Turning leftover smoked sausage into a flavor-packed gumbo might just be the best idea you’ll have all week. With a base of Texas BBQ goodness, Truboy BBQ's Smoked Jalapeno Cheddar Sausage adds a smoky kick and a hint of spice to every bite. This recipe combines a classic gumbo style with the bold flavors of smoked sausage, giving you a taste of Southern comfort that’s simple to whip up and impossible to forget. Here’s how to make gumbo that’s as rich in tradition as it is in Texas BBQ flavor.

Spice Up Your Kitchen: Ingredients for the Perfect Smoked Sausage Gumbo

Before diving into the pot, gather up everything you need for a gumbo that brings Texas BBQ flair to the table.

Main Ingredients

• Truboy BBQ's Smoked Jalapeno Cheddar Sausages: 4 sausages, sliced
• Chicken breast: 1/2 pound, diced
• Shrimp: 1/2 pound, peeled and deveined
• Okra: 1 cup, sliced
• Bell pepper: 1 large, diced
• Celery: 2 stalks, chopped
• Onion: 1 large, chopped
• Garlic: 3 cloves, minced

The Mighty Roux

• Flour: 1/2 cup
• Vegetable oil: 1/2 cup

Seasoning & Broth Essentials

• Chicken broth: 6 cups
• Bay leaves: 2
• Cajun seasoning: 1 tablespoon
• Paprika: 1 teaspoon
• Dried thyme: 1/2 teaspoon
• Salt and pepper: to taste
• Cooked rice: for serving
• Fresh parsley: for garnish

Stirring Up the South: Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Fire Up That Roux, the Soul of Gumbo

A great gumbo starts with a great roux. The roux, a mix of oil and flour, is where the deep, nutty flavors are born.

1. Heat the Oil: In a large pot or Dutch oven, add the vegetable oil and let it heat over medium heat.
2. Add Flour: Slowly sprinkle in the flour, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon to avoid lumps. This process requires patience!
3. Keep Stirring: Stir the roux for 15-20 minutes, until it turns a deep, dark brown color, resembling dark chocolate. This is where the rich, earthy flavor comes from, so don’t rush.
4. Mind the Heat: Lower the heat as needed, and keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.

Step 2: Building Flavor with Veggies and Truboy’s Smoked Sausage

Now that the roux is ready, it’s time to bring in the Texas BBQ twist.

1. Add the Holy Trinity: Add the diced bell pepper, celery, and onion to the roux, sautéing them until soft and fragrant, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Garlic & Okra: Add the minced garlic and okra to the pot, cooking for an additional 3 minutes. Okra helps thicken the gumbo naturally and adds depth to the flavor.
3. Toss in the Sausage: Add the Truboy BBQ Smoked Jalapeno Cheddar Sausages. This smoked sausage brings just the right kick, with jalapeno heat and cheddar’s richness adding new layers of flavor.

Step 3: Adding Meat, Seasoning, and Broth for Texas-Style Comfort

1. Chicken Goes In: Add the diced chicken to the pot, stirring to coat each piece with the roux and seasoning.
2. Pour in Broth: Slowly add the chicken broth, stirring continuously to ensure the roux blends smoothly. This will give your gumbo that luscious, velvety texture.
3. Season with Love: Add the bay leaves, Cajun seasoning, paprika, thyme, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Texas BBQ meets Cajun spices for a bold, comforting flavor.
4. Let it Simmer: Reduce the heat to low, allowing the gumbo to simmer uncovered for 30-40 minutes. This simmer time lets all the flavors meld and develop into a rich, mouthwatering stew.

Step 4: Finishing Touches – Shrimp, Spice, and Everything Nice

1. Add the Shrimp: About 5 minutes before you’re ready to serve, add the shrimp to the pot. They cook quickly and bring a mild sweetness that balances the smoky, spicy sausage.
2. Taste Test: Check your seasoning, adding more salt, pepper, or Cajun seasoning as desired. This is where you can really dial up that Texas BBQ spice if you want extra heat.

Step 5: Serve It Up – The Texas BBQ Way

1. Prepare the Rice: Spoon a generous portion of cooked rice into each bowl, creating a cozy base for the gumbo.
2. Ladle the Gumbo: Pour the hot gumbo over the rice, ensuring each serving has plenty of sausage, chicken, and shrimp.
3. Garnish: Sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a bright, flavorful finish.

Pro Tips & Delicious Variations

For Extra Smoky Goodness

If you’re a fan of that deep, smoky flavor, add a few drops of liquid smoke or an additional smoked sausage. The Truboy BBQ Smoked Jalapeno Cheddar Sausage already packs a punch, but an extra smoky element can bring out even more of that Texas BBQ essence.

Spice Things Up

Want more heat? Add a dash of hot sauce or cayenne pepper to the gumbo for an extra kick. This pairs perfectly with the jalapeno in the smoked sausage, enhancing the spicy side of Texas BBQ.

Different Proteins, Same Comfort

This gumbo is incredibly versatile. Feel free to add leftover turkey, ham, or even brisket from your last BBQ. The beauty of gumbo lies in its flexibility, so use what you have for a hearty, satisfying meal.

Why Truboy BBQ's Smoked Sausages Make This Gumbo Shine

The magic of gumbo lies in its blend of complex, layered flavors. Truboy BBQ’s Smoked Jalapeno Cheddar Sausage doesn’t just add protein to the dish; it brings an entire flavor profile that enhances the richness of this gumbo. The smoke from these Texas BBQ sausages infuses every bite with depth, while the jalapeno provides a gentle kick, and the cheddar lends a smooth, savory note. This combination of smoky, spicy, and cheesy flavors makes Truboy BBQ’s smoked sausage a perfect addition to this dish.

Whether you’re repurposing leftover sausage or simply craving a Texas BBQ twist on a classic, this gumbo brings it all to the table. Grab a spoon and enjoy the layers of flavor that only Truboy BBQ's Smoked Sausages can deliver.

Serve it with pride, knowing that a taste of Texas BBQ can transform a pot of gumbo into something extraordinary.