Shrimp Gumbo

2 lb. shrimp

2 tbsp. each oil, flour

3 cups okra, chopped

2 onions, chopped

2 tbsp. oil

1 can tomatoes

2 qt. (64 oz.) water

1 bay leaf

1 tsp. salt

3 cloves garlic, optional

optional: red pepper, to taste

Peel shrimp, uncooked, and devein.

 

  Make a dark roux of flour and oil. 

 

 Add shrimp to this a few minutes, stirring constantly.

 

  Set aside.  Smother okra and onions in oil. 

 

 Add tomatoes when okra is nearly cooked. 

 

 Then add water, bay leaf, garlic, salt and pepper.

 

  Add shrimp and roux.

 

  Cover and cook slowly 30 minutes.

 

  If okra is not used, add gumbo after turning off heat.

 

  Serve with rice. 

 

 Makes 6-8 servings.