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Perfect Classic Gumbo Roux Recipe

4.5 from 85 reviews

This rich and flavorful Gumbo Roux recipe provides a classic, deep chocolate brown base essential for authentic gumbo dishes. Made by slowly cooking flour with neutral oil, this roux offers a nutty, smoky undertone that enhances the overall flavor profile of gumbo and other Louisiana-style stews.

Ingredients

Scale

Ingredients

  • 1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup neutral oil (such as vegetable oil or avocado oil)

Instructions

  1. Mix the roux: In a large deep cast iron skillet or Dutch oven, heat the oil over medium-high heat. Gradually whisk in the flour until no lumps remain. The flour and oil mixture will bubble and foam initially, which is a normal part of the process.
  2. Stir and cook the roux: After about 5 minutes, reduce the heat to medium-low. Continuously stir the mixture for 30 to 45 minutes, scraping the bottom and sides of the pot frequently. The roux will gradually darken to a deep chocolate brown color. It is crucial not to leave the roux unattended or stop stirring as it can burn quickly.
  3. Use the roux: If you are preparing gumbo immediately, proceed with your gumbo recipe by adding other ingredients to the roux as directed.
  4. Store the roux: If not using right away, remove the roux from the heat to prevent overcooking from residual heat. Let it cool completely at room temperature before transferring to an airtight container for storage.

Notes

  • Use a heavy-bottomed pan like cast iron or a Dutch oven to ensure even heating and prevent burning.
  • Constant stirring is essential to avoid lumps and burning during roux preparation.
  • The darker the roux, the richer the flavor, but be careful: it can go from perfectly cooked to burnt quickly.
  • Store roux in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 month; it can also be frozen for longer storage.
  • Neutral oils like vegetable or avocado oil are preferred to avoid overpowering flavors.

Keywords: gumbo roux, roux base, gumbo recipe, Louisiana cuisine, dark roux, classic gumbo sauce