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Homemade Gumbo File Powder Recipe

Homemade Gumbo File Powder Recipe

Learn how to make homemade gumbo file powder to elevate your Cajun cooking. Add flavor and texture with this secret spice!

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HOMEMADE GUMBO FILE POWDER RECIPE

Get ready to take your Cajun and Creole cooking to a whole new level with this Homemade Gumbo File Powder recipe! Bursting with flavors reminiscent of the vibrant Louisiana cuisine, this secret ingredient will transform your gumbo into a culinary masterpiece. With a blend of aromatic herbs and the unique sassafras leaves, this homemade file powder will add a rich, earthy taste and a velvety texture to your dishes. Join me on this flavor-filled journey as we unlock the secrets of this essential spice!

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WHAT IS GUMBO FILE?

This recipe is a guide to making your own homemade gumbo file powder. Gumbo file powder, also known as sassafras powder, is a key ingredient in traditional Louisiana cooking. It is made from dried sassafras leaves that are ground into a fine powder. One interesting fact about gumbo file powder is that it not only acts as a flavor enhancer but also serves as a natural thickening agent for gumbo and other Cajun and Creole dishes. It imparts a distinctive taste and adds a silky texture to the final dish.

WHAT DOES THIS HOMEMADE GUMBO SEASONING TASTE LIKE?

The prepared gumbo file powder has a unique flavor profile. It combines the earthy notes of sassafras with the herbaceousness of thyme, basil, oregano, rosemary, and marjoram. The garlic and onion powder contribute savory undertones, while the touch of salt enhances the overall taste. When added to gumbo or other dishes, the homemade file powder brings a complex and harmonious flavor that perfectly complements the rich and robust Cajun and Creole flavors.

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HOMEMADE GUMBO FILE POWDER INGREDIENTS

HOW TO MAKE THIS GUMBO FILE RECIPE

  1. Rinse the sassafras leaves and let them air dry completely.
  2. Grind the sassafras leaves into a fine powder using a spice grinder or a clean coffee grinder.
  3. In a small bowl, mix together the ground sassafras powder, thyme, basil, oregano, rosemary, marjoram, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt.
  4. Store the file powder in an airtight container in a cool, dry place for up to 6 months.
A photorealistic image of ingredients for Homemade Gumbo File Powder consisting of nine piles of different spices and herbs on a white background.

CAN YOU MAKE GUMBO FILE AHEAD OF TIME?

Absolutely! You can make this gumbo file powder ahead of time and store it in an airtight container. It will stay fresh and flavorful for up to 6 months, making it a convenient pantry staple for all your future Cajun and Creole cooking adventures.

CAN YOU FREEZE GUMBO FILE?

Yes, you can freeze this gumbo file powder. Transfer it to an airtight freezer-safe container and store it in the freezer for up to a year. Freezing helps preserve the flavors and ensures you always have this essential ingredient on hand whenever you crave the authentic taste of Louisiana.
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WHAT TO SERVE WITH THE BEST HOMEMADE GUMBO FILE POWDER?

This homemade gumbo file powder is perfect for enhancing the flavors of various Cajun and Creole dishes. Use it to thicken and flavor traditional gumbo, jambalaya, étouffée, or even a hearty seafood stew. It’s a versatile spice that will bring an authentic taste of the Louisiana kitchen to your own home.

RELATED: Cheesy Cajun Sausage and Chicken Pasta

WHAT KITCHEN TOOLS DO I NEED TO MAKE GUMBO FILE AT HOME?

Homemade Gumbo File Powder Recipe

Homemade Gumbo File Powder Recipe

Learn how to make homemade gumbo file powder to elevate your Cajun cooking. Add flavor and texture with this secret spice!
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 5 minutes
Course: Seasoning
Cuisine: American, Cajun, Creole
Keyword: Homemade spice blend
Servings: 1 1 cup jar
Author: House Hunk

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Rinse the sassafras leaves and let them air dry completely.
  • Grind the sassafras leaves into a fine powder using a spice grinder or a clean coffee grinder.
  • In a small bowl, mix together the ground sassafras powder, thyme, basil, oregano, rosemary, marjoram, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt.
  • Store the file powder in an airtight container in a cool, dry place for up to 6 months.
Tried this recipe? Did you love it?Mention @HouseHunk or tag #househunk!
The Best Homemade Gumbo File Powder

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