A gumbo pot is a type of cooking pot that is used to make gumbo, a popular Louisiana dish. Gumbo is made with a variety of ingredients, including seafood, okra, rice, and sausage. The gumbo pot is typically made of cast iron, which helps to give the gumbo its characteristic dark color.
The traditional Gumbo
The gumbo is a popular dish in Louisiana, the United States, which has French and Spanish influences. The name “gumbo” comes from the African word for okra, which is one of the main ingredients in this dish. Gumbo is usually made with a roux (a mixture of flour and fat) that is used to thicken the stew. Other ingredients in gumbo can include meat, seafood, vegetables, and spices.
Jambalaya
Jambalaya is a traditional Louisiana dish that is similar to gumbo. Both dishes contain the Holy Trinity of ingredients – onion, celery, and green peppers. However, the rice in a jambalaya is cooked in the same pot as the other ingredients, whereas gumbo is always served over the rice. The precise origin of the jambalaya is unknown, but it is thought to be a combination of Spanish, French, and African influences.
Preparing Gumbo today
There is no one gumbo dish, so you need to experiment until you’ve found the recipe that works for you. Here’s something you can start with:
Prepare the roux by mixing flour and vegetable (or other) oil. About 3 parts flour to 2 parts oil. Cook on a low to medium heat for around 40 minutes.
This is where you have a vast choice of ingredients, these include:
- Cook the meat / fish
- Sausage
- Crab meat
- Grilled shrimp
- Bread chicken
- Grilled chicken
- Pulled pork
- Cook the vegetables.
- Fried green tomatoes
- Sautéed onions
Gumbo Side Dishes
If you’re looking for some delicious side dishes to go along with your gumbo, look no further! These dishes are all perfect compliments to a tasty plate of gumbo.
Comeback shrimp salad is a great option if you’re looking for something fried. The shrimp is coated in a light batter and then fried to perfection. This salad also has a variety of other flavors and textures that make it a perfect side dish for gumbo.
Grits sautéed shrimp is another fantastic option. The grits are cooked until they’re nice and creamy, and then the shrimp is added in. This dish has a great balance of flavors and is sure to please everyone at the table.
Bread shrimp basket is a great option if you’re looking for something a little different. The bread is used to create a basket that’s filled with shrimp. This dish is perfect for those who want to try something new and exciting.
Fried green tomatoes are the perfect side dish if you’re looking for something crispy and crunchy. The tomatoes are coated in a light batter and then fried. This dish is sure to be a hit with everyone at the table.
Cajun or Creole?
The terms “Cajun” and “Creole” are often used interchangeably, but there is a difference between the two. Cajuns are descendants of Acadians who were deported from Nova Scotia in the 1700s and settled in southwest Louisiana. Creoles are people of mixed French, Spanish, African, and Native American descent who settled in the New Orleans area. Both groups have influenced the culture and cuisine of Louisiana.
Cajun food is usually associated with hearty dishes like gumbo and jambalaya, while Creole food is typically richer and more refined. Cajun cooking often uses simple ingredients like rice, beans, and sausage, while Creole cuisine often incorporates more seafood and fresh vegetables.
While both Cajuns and Creoles share a common French heritage, the two groups have distinct customs and traditions. Cajuns are known for their love of music and dance, while Creoles are more associated with the arts and literature. Both groups have contributed to the unique culture of Louisiana.
10 Best Gumbo Pots
1. Rachael Ray Brights Hard Anodized Nonstick Pasta Pot / Stockpot / Stock Pot – 8 Quart, Gray
The Rachael Ray 8-Quart Hard Anodized Nonstick Pasta Pot with Lid and Pour Spout is the perfect pot for making gumbo or other one-pot meals. The pot’s unique shape not only saves space on the cooktop, but also allows the cook to boil various noodles without having to break them. The nonstick pot is made of durable hard anodized aluminum for fast, even heating without hot spots, and is coupled with a shatter-resistant glass lid to seal in heat and flavor while you cook. The pot is oven safe to 350°F, with an enhanced, PFOA-free nonstick interior for easy food release. Plus, the pot’s pour spout lets you drain water without having to remove the lid.
What We Liked:
- Is a great pot for making gumbo.
- It is easy to clean and works beautifully for spaghetti. The oval shape is perfect for making gumbo.
- Is a great pot for making gumbo.
- The pot handle extends far enough to make stirring easy.
What We Didn’t Like:
- The only downside is that finding a storage spot for this pot can be difficult because of its size.
Overall, the Rachael Ray Brights Hard Anodized Nonstick Pasta Pot / Stockpot / Stock Pot is a great pot for making gumbo and other pasta dishes.
2. NutriChef 15-Quart Stainless Steel Stock Pot Pot-18/8 Food Grade Heavy Duty Induction-Large, Stew, Simmering, Soup See Through Lid, Dishwasher Safe NCSP16
The NutriChef 15-Quart Stainless Steel Stock Pot is perfect for gumbo, stew, soup and more. It is made of 18/8 food grade heavy duty stainless steel and is dishwasher safe. The pot has a see-through tempered glass lid and riveted handles. It is also compatible with gas, induction, ceramic, glass and halogen cooktops. The pot has a 0.208” base thickness and is 15 quarts in size. It comes with a limited 1-year warranty.
What We Liked:
- Is a great choice for cooking gumbo and other large meals.
- It is made of high-quality materials and is dishwasher safe.
- The pot also has a see-through lid, making it easy to check on the progress of your meal.
What We Didn’t Like:
- Some users have found that the pot can discolor after just one use.
Overall, the NutriChef 15-Quart Stainless Steel Stock Pot is a great choice for those who want a durable and reliable pot for cooking large meals.
3. IMUSA USA Stainless Steel Stock Pot 20-Quart, Silver
The IMUSA USA Stainless Steel Stock Pot is perfect for gumbo, stew, soup, and other large-batch cooking needs. The shiny exterior and interior add a touch of elegance to your kitchen, while the stainless steel construction ensures fast and even heating for reliable cooking results. Invite friends and family over for a home-cooked meal and enjoy the convenience and durability of this versatile stock pot.
What We Liked:
- Is a great pot for gumbo and other meals.
- The pot is big enough to accommodate large portions
- The stainless steel material is durable and easy to clean.
What We Didn’t Like:
- However, the pot can be difficult to clean if food sticks to the bottom, and it may require soaking in order to remove all the food residue.
- The pot is not dishwasher safe.
Overall, the IMUSA USA Stainless Steel Stock Pot 20-Quart, Silver is a great pot for gumbo and other meals, but it may require some extra effort to clean.
4. T-fal B36262 Specialty Total Nonstick Dishwasher Safe Oven Safe Stockpot Cookware, 12-Quart, Black
The T-fal B36262 Specialty Total Nonstick Dishwasher Safe Oven Safe Stockpot Cookware is a great gumbo pot for cooking family size meals. The nonstick interior and exterior make it easy to cook and clean, and the glass lid allows you to watch cooking progress. The vented hole lets steam escape to prevent boiling over. This pot is also dishwasher safe and oven safe.
What We Liked:
- Is a great pot for gumbo, seafood soups, chilis, ham, and other large meals.
- It is also dishwasher safe and oven safe, making it very easy to clean.
- The pot also has a nonstick surface, making it even easier to clean.
What We Didn’t Like:
- The pot is also very lightweight, making it difficult to handle when hot.
- The handles are also covered in a rubber/plastic that can crack after exposure to heat.
Overall, this is a great pot for large meals and easy cleanup, but it may not be the best choice for handling hot food.
5. Stainless Steel Cookware Stock Pot – 24 Quart, Heavy Duty Induction Pot, Soup Pot With Stainless Steel, Lid, Induction, Ceramic, Glass and Halogen Cooktops Compatible – NCSPT24Q
This Stainless Steel Cookware Stock Pot is perfect for gumbo, soup and other large meals. It features ergonomic handles, a stainless steel lid and is made of non-toxic and non-allergic material. Additionally, the pot has a heavy duty construction and is compatible with gas, induction, ceramic, glass and halogen cooktops. Finally, the pot has an impact bonded base for even heat distribution.
What We Liked:
- This pot is great for gumbo, soup or any other meal that needs to be cooked in large quantities.
- The stainless steel construction is heavy duty and can withstand the heat of induction, ceramic, glass or halogen cooktops.
- The lid fits snugly on top of the pot, keeping heat and moisture in while cooking.
- The pot also has markings inside for measuring contents.
What We Didn’t Like:
- The only downside to this pot is that the handles are riveted on, which can make cleaning a bit more difficult.
Overall, this is a great pot for anyone who needs to cook large quantities of food at one time.
6. Cuisinart 6466-26 Hard Anodized 12-Quart Contour-Stainless-Steel-Cookware, Stockpot w/Cover
The Cuisinart Contour Hard Anodized 12-Quart Stockpot with Cover is the perfect size for large family meals or gumbo pot. The unique shape not only looks great but also allows for maximum volume to cook with added flair. The hard anodized construction is unsurpassed in durability and performance, while the elegant styling and robust silhouette make for a professional look. This pot is a must-have addition to any kitchen!
What We Liked:
- Is a great gumbo pot.
- It is the perfect size for making large meals.
- The pot is easy to clean and works great in making soup.
What We Didn’t Like:
- The only downside is that it is made in China.
Otherwise, this pot is a great addition to your kitchen.
7. Cook N Home 12 Stainless Steel Saucepot with Lid Quart Stockpot, QT, Silver
The Cook N Home 12 Quart Stainless Steel Stockpot Saucepot with Lid is made of mirror polished 18-10 stainless steel for durability and easy cleaning. The aluminum disc layer in the bottom ensures even and quick heat distribution, while the tempered glass lid with steam vent allows you to view the food while it’s cooking. The riveted handles are comfortable to carry and stay cool, while the reinforced rim ensures long heating and pouring. The large size is perfect for multipurpose use, and can also be used for canning and jarring. Induction compatible. Works on gas, electric, glass, ceramic, halogen, etc. Oven safe to 350F. Dishwasher safe.
What We Liked:
- Very sturdy and solid pot
- Reasonable price
What We Didn’t Like:
- The rubber part on the lid handle is too short. I’ve burned myself a bit by grabbing too far down on the pot.
This is a great gumbo pot for anyone who cooks huge amounts of food or wants a pot that will do waterbath canning nicely. Despite the one negative of the short rubber handle, this pot is a great value for the price.
8. Calphalon Premier Space Saving Nonstick 12qt Stock Pot with Cover
The Calphalon Premier Space Saving Hard-Anodized Nonstick 12-Quart Stock Pot and Cover is the perfect pot for gumbo, soups, stews and other large meals. The pot’s hard-anodized construction ensures even heating with no hot spots. The three-layer nonstick interior is durable enough to withstand metal spatulas, spoons and whisks. Plus, the pot’s unique design and flat glass cover stack and nest in any order, saving 30% more space in the kitchen. The Calphalon Premier Space Saving Hard-Anodized Nonstick 12-Quart Stock Pot and Cover is dishwasher-safe for easy cleanup. gumbo pot, pot, meal, cookware, kitchen storage.
What We Liked:
- This gumbo pot is a great size
- The heavy material ensures even heat distribution.
What We Didn’t Like:
- The lid does not fit snugly on the pan and there is a small gap between the lid and pot. This may cause spillage during cooking.
- The design of the lid makes it awkward to use on the pot.
Overall, this is a good gumbo pot but there are some design flaws that could be improved.
9. Concord Cookware Stainless Steel Stock Pot Kettle, 100-Quart
The Concord Cookware Stainless Steel Stock Pot Kettle is made from commercial quality stainless steel that is polished to a shine. It has solid construction with riveted stainless steel handles and a new lid design. The pot is very heavy duty and will last a lifetime. It has a 100-quart capacity and measures 20″ wide x 20″ height. This is the perfect pot for gumbo or any other large batch cooking needs.
What We Liked:
- The pot is made of high quality stainless steel which ensures even heat distribution and prevents sticking.
- It has a capacity of 100 quarts, making it ideal for large gatherings or events.
- The pot comes with a lid, allowing you to cook multiple items at once.
- The pot is easy to clean, as it is dishwasher safe.
What We Didn’t Like
- The pot does not have a non-stick coating, so it may require more oil or butter for cooking.
- The pot is not induction cooktop compatible.
10. KitchenAid Hard Anodized Induction Nonstick Stock Pot/Stockpot with Lid, 8 Quart, Matte Black
Take control of your cooking with even heat and consistent results using the KitchenAid Hard Anodized Induction Nonstick Stockpot with Lid. This heavy-gauge, hard anodized aluminum stockpot is durable enough for everyday use, so you can experiment with new recipes and cooking techniques in the kitchen. The thick, forged base is designed to heat evenly, eliminating hot spots for rich, flavorful results on any stovetop. Triple-layer, PFOA-free nonstick on the cookware interior and handle rivets provides effortless food release for a completely nonstick cooking surface. The KitchenAid Hard Anodized Induction Nonstick Stockpot with Lid is the perfect addition to your kitchen cookware collection.
What We Liked:
- Is a well-made and practical cookware option that is perfect for those who prefer non-stick surfaces.
What We Didn’t Like:
- The only drawback of this cookware set is that it requires the purchase of new cooking utensils, as the non-stick surface is not compatible with all utensils.
However, the positives of this cookware set outweigh the negatives, making it a great option for those in the market for new cookware.
What pot is best for gumbo?
Many people believe that the best pot for gumbo is a cast iron pot. Cast iron pots are known for their even heat distribution, which can help prevent scorching. Additionally, cast iron pots often have a non-stick surface, making them easier to clean. However, any type of heavy duty pot will work for gumbo. Just be sure to choose one that is large enough to accommodate all of the ingredients.
How big is a standard gumbo pot?
A standard gumbo pot typically measures between 10 and 12 inches in diameter. It is deep enough to accommodate a large gumbo recipe, but not so deep that it is difficult to stir.
Do You Simmer Gumbo Covered or Uncovered?
It’s a matter of personal taste. Simmer uncovered for a thicker gumbo. Simmer your gumbo covered if you want it thin.
Whether you simmer your gumbo covered or uncovered, a lid is always useful for other cooking. Some pots come with glass lids, which can help you monitor the progress of the contents. If you are putting them in the oven, remember to check the temperature that these glass lids can withstand.
Which Material is Best for Gumbo?
There is no definitive answer to this question as it depends on personal preferences. However, some materials may be better suited for gumbo than others. For example, cast iron is a reliable and sturdy material that is great for gumbo. Stainless steel is also reliable and can often take a beating. Non stick cookware can be more convenient but may be more difficult to clean. Ultimately, the best material for gumbo is one that suits your individual needs and preferences.
Hi, I’m Julia Mitchell and through this blog I want to put forward all my experiences and expertise to help you find the best kitchen items possible. I have been working in research and development of kitchen tools for the last three decades. Throughout my professional career I have come across various kitchen products and I use that experience to assist people in getting ideal kitchen items for their requirements. If you have any further doubt, you can email us and we will get in touch with you immediately.
