Papa Richard's Seafood Gumbo

Ingredients

• 1 (10 1/2 ounce) can lump crabmeat
• 2 lbs fresh shrimp (peeled and deveined)
• 4 tablespoons flour
• 4 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/2 cup shallot (minced)
• 1 cup onion (chopped)
• 4 cups water
• 1 pint oyster (optional)
• 1 lb catfish (optional)
• 4 garlic cloves (finely chopped)
• 1/4 teaspoon thyme
• 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1 tablespoon dried celery flakes
• 2 cups okra (sliced)

Directions

1. 1

   prepare onions, garlic, and okra using food processor to finely chop.

2. 2

   use cast iron skillet for best roux.

3. 3

   saute flour in oil until golden brown.

4. 4

   add onions and garlic, continue sauteing until onions are tender and light golden in color. (For dark roux, continue to brown, be careful not to burn roux).

5. 5

   add water and all seasonings except gumbo file.

6. 6

   bring to a rolling boil, reduce heat and let cook for about 40 minutes.

7. 7

   add crab meat and bring to a boil, reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes.

8. 8

   add shrimp, oysters, and fish. cook for 30 minutes.

9. 9

   when done, add 1 tbsp gumbo file to the pot.

10. 10

    server over steaming rice. season to taste.