3 tbsp. oil
3 tbsp. flour
1 tsp. salt
1/2 tsp. black pepper
1 1/2 qts. water
1 tbsp. gumbo file
1 onion, chopped fine
2 lbs. cleaned shrimp
1 can okra & tomatoes (opt.)

Brown flour in oil. Add onion and stir until brown. Add water. Bring to a boil. Add shrimp, salt, pepper and gumbo file. Reduce heat and simmer 30 minutes. Serve over rice or with crackers.