4 tbsp. oil
4 tbsp. flour
2 lb. okra, sliced
1 lg. onion, chopped
2 cans tomatoes, cut up
1 bell pepper, minced
2 stalks celery, minced
1/4 c. chopped, parsley
1/4 tsp. thyme
1 tbsp. basil
1/2 tsp. Worcestershire sauce
2 lb. shrimp, peeled
2 qt. water
Salt & pepper to taste

Make a good dark roux in a heavy pot with hot oil and flour. Add water slowly and then okra. Add all vegetables and seasonings. Black or red pepper or Tabasco may be used depending on preference.

To improve flavor, saute vegetables in butter before adding. Cook above ingredients for 30 minutes to an hour. Add shrimp, but do not overcook. File is not added because okra is a thickener. Gumbo should have a thick consistency, somewhere between soup and gravy. Serve with rice in bowl.