what can you use instead of chicken gumbo soup

What Can You Use Instead of Chicken Gumbo Soup? 7 Tasty Substitutes

Chicken gumbo is a beloved soup, especially in Louisiana and the Southern United States It’s a hearty, flavorful stew made with chicken, vegetables, and a roux But what if you need a substitute? Maybe you don’t have chicken on hand, want to go vegetarian or vegan, or are looking for a lower-carb option. Fortunately, there are many tasty ingredients you can use instead of chicken in gumbo soup.

In this article, we’ll explore 7 delicious substitutes for chicken gumbo soup. Whether you want an authentic meaty flavor or are avoiding animal products altogether, there’s a substitute here for you. We’ll also explain what chicken gumbo is, how it’s used in recipes, and answer some frequently asked questions. Let’s dive in!

What is Chicken Gumbo Soup?Chicken gumbo soup originated in Louisiana and is a staple of Creole cuisine It’s made by simmering chicken in a broth along with the “holy trinity” of vegetables celery, bell peppers, and onions Okra is another key ingredient, used as a thickener along with roux (a mixture of fat and flour). Other common ingredients are sausage, ham, shrimp, crab, tomatoes, and spices like thyme, bay leaves, and cayenne pepper.

The result is a thick, stew-like soup packed with flavor. It’s usually served over white rice, which soaks up the rich broth. There are many variations, but chicken is the star player in traditional gumbo.

How is Chicken Gumbo Used in Recipes?
Chicken gumbo can be enjoyed on its own as a hearty standalone meal. It’s also commonly used:

• As a starter or side dish to Cajun or Creole mains like jambalaya, étouffée, or po’ boys.

• Over rice, baked potatoes, or grits as a one-pot meal.

• As a flavor base for dishes like gumbo burgers, gumbo pasta, or gumbo chili.

• Stirred into bean soups, vegetable soups, or chowders to add depth of flavor.

• Served with cornbread, biscuits, or corn muffins for dipping.

• Added to sandwiches or wraps for a flavorful Creole flair.

• Used in appetizers like gumbo meatballs, gumbo potato skins, or gumbo nachos.

So while chicken gumbo is amazing on its own, it also shines when incorporated creatively into other recipes. Now let’s look at some great alternatives.

7 Tasty Substitutes for Chicken Gumbo Soup

1. Andouille or Kielbasa Sausage
   For an authentic meaty flavor, sausage is your best bet. Smoky, heavily-spiced Cajun andouille sausage is traditional. But kielbasa or chorizo also work wonderfully. Chop the sausage into bite-size pieces before adding to the gumbo.

2. Ham or Tasso
   Smoked, salted ham adds concentrated umami flavor. Tasso, a seasoned smoked pork shoulder, is another classic gumbo meat. Dice the ham small or buy pre-cut ham cubes.

3. Shrimp, Crab Meat, Crawfish, or Lobster
   For a shellfish twist, use shrimp, crab, crawfish tails, or lobster meat in place of chicken. Sweat the shrimp shells first to infuse flavor before discarding. Just watch cooking times so seafood doesn’t overcook.

4. Mushrooms
   Sliced mushrooms like cremini, shiitake, or oyster have a satisfying meaty texture. Sauté them well to draw out moisture first. Portobello caps, browned and sliced, are especially “meaty.”

5. Beans or Lentils
   Cooked beans or lentils blended into the gumbo add protein, texture, and earthiness. Kidney, pinto, black beans, or red/green lentils all work. Partially mash some beans to thicken.

6. Seitan or Soy Curls
   For a vegan/vegetarian option, seitan or rehydrated soy curls shredded into bite-size pieces make great chicken substitutes. Marinate first in broth for flavor.

7. Extra Vegetables
   Bolster veggies like okra, celery, onion, bell pepper, potatoes, carrots, greens, or tomatoes in place of some chicken. More vegetables = more nutrients!

Tips for Chicken-less Gumbo:

• Use vegetable or mushroom broth as the base for vegan versions.
• Add vegan butter or oil for the roux.
• Season well with Cajun/Creole spices, smoked paprika, thyme, bay, etc.
• Finish with a splash of vinegar or hot sauce for a flavor punch.
• Garnish with green onions, parsley, or vegan cheese.

So with a little creativity, you can make a delicious chicken-free gumbo! The key is layering rich, savory flavors.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s an easy chicken gumbo substitute for weeknights?
Ground turkey or sausage browns up quickly and can substitute for chicken in a time crunch. Mushrooms, shrimp, or ham work fast too.

What can vegetarians/vegans use instead of chicken in gumbo?
Try mushrooms, beans/lentils, seitan, soy curls, extra vegetables, or commercial meat substitutes like Quorn or Beyond Meat. Use vegetable broth.

What gives a chicken-less gumbo good flavor?
Boost umami with tomato paste, mushrooms, smoked paprika, miso, or soy sauce. Finish with vinegar or hot sauce. Herbs, garlic, bay, and spices add depth.

Can I use turkey instead of chicken in gumbo?
Absolutely! Turkey gives a similar vibe to chicken. Just be sure to use thighs or legs, not breast meat, which can dry out.

Is chicken broth necessary for gumbo?
No, you can use veggie or mushroom broth. But for authentic flavor, a little chicken broth does help. Opt for low-sodium if health is a concern.

Conclusion
Chicken gumbo soup is delicious comfort food, but with a little creativity, there are lots of tasty ways to re-create that flavor profile without chicken. Sausage, seafood, beans, seitan, and extra vegetables can all stand in beautifully. With savory umami flavor from broth, seasoning, and aromatics, you can make achicken-free gumbo that’s so flavorful, no one will miss the chicken. Give one of these tasty substitutions a try next time chicken gumbo is on the menu. Your taste buds will thank you!