CHICKEN GUMBO

This is so easy-to-make that even a caveman came do it and it can be made all in one pot.

Makes 8 servings

1 teaspoon vegetable oil
1/4 cup flour
3 cups chicken broth
1-1/2 pounds chicken breast, skinless and boneless, cut into 1-inch strips
1 cup white potatoes (1/2 lb), cubed
1 cup onions, chopped
1 cup carrots (1/2 lb), coarsely chopped
1/4 cup celery, chopped
1/2 medium carrot, grated
4 cloves garlic, finely minced
2 stalks scallion, chopped
1 whole bay leaf
1/2 tsp thyme
1/2 tsp black pepper, ground
2 teaspoons hot (or jalapeno) pepper
1 cup okra (1/2 pound), sliced into 1/2-inch pieces


1. Add oil to a large pot.

2. Heat pot over medium flame.

3. Stir in flour.

4. Cook, stirring constantly, until flour begins to turn golden brown.

5. Slowly stir in all the broth using a wire whisk and cook for 2 minutes. The mixture should not be lumpy.

6. Add all ingredients except okra. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for 20 to 30 minutes.

7. Add okra and let cook for 15 to 20 more minutes.

8. Remove bay leaf.

9. Serve hot in a bowl or over rice.