Vegetable Gumbo Z'Herbes

Follow our step-by-step guide on how to make Vegetable Gumbo Z'Herbes.

1. Step 1

   Start by prepping your leeks: slice them in half lengthwise and then cut both the white and green parts into 1/4-inch thick pieces.

2. Step 2

   Next, take the stems off the collard greens, turnip greens, kale, and chard, and chop each type of green separately.

3. Step 3

   Don’t forget to dice the celery stalks, setting aside the leaves for a lovely garnish later.

4. Step 4

   In a large pot, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.

5. Step 5

   Toss in the leeks along with 1 tablespoon of thyme, cooking them until they become tender and translucent, which should take about 5 minutes.

6. Step 6

   Now, stir in the collard greens, turnip greens, and chopped cabbage.

7. Step 7

   Keep stirring frequently until the greens wilt, which will take another 5 minutes.

8. Step 8

   After that, add the kale, chard, and 1 tablespoon of salt, continuing to cook until all the greens are nicely wilted, about 5 more minutes.

9. Step 9

   Lower the heat and let the greens simmer, stirring often, until they’re tender and the bitterness has faded, which should take around 10 minutes.

10. Step 10

    Once they’re ready, transfer the greens to a large bowl and set them aside for later.

11. Step 11

    Wipe out the pot to get rid of any residue, then melt the remaining 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.

12. Step 12

    Whisk in the flour, stirring constantly until the mixture turns a rich dark brown and fills your kitchen with a wonderful aroma, which should take about 5 minutes.

13. Step 13

    Now, add the diced bell pepper, onion, and celery to the pot.

14. Step 14

    Cook these veggies, stirring frequently, until they’re tender, which will take about 5 minutes.

15. Step 15

    Then, add the garlic and the last tablespoon of thyme, cooking until everything is fragrant, about 1 minute.

16. Step 16

    Gradually whisk in the vegetable broth, then mix in the reserved braised greens, bay leaves, black pepper, file powder, and crushed red pepper.

17. Step 17

    Bring this delightful mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally.

18. Step 18

    Once it’s bubbling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens slightly and the vegetables are tender, which should take about 30 minutes.

19. Step 19

    Taste and season with the remaining tablespoon of salt as needed.

20. Step 20

    When you’re ready to serve, ladle the gumbo over a bed of fluffy cooked white rice and sprinkle with the reserved celery leaves for a fresh touch.

21. Step 21

    Enjoy this hearty dish that’s sure to warm your soul!.