Gumbo

Ingredients

1/4 cup vegetable oil
2 pounds okra, washed in cold water, caps removed and tips cut into 1/4-inch rounds
Essence
2 cups tomatoes, peeled, seeded and chopped
1 cup chopped onions
1 cup chopped celery
Salt
Cayenne
5 bay leaves
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme leaves
1 tablespoon minced garlic
8 cups water
2 pounds medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 cups cooked white rice, warm
2 tablespoons chopped green onions

Instructions

In a large pot, heat the oil. Fry the okra, stirring constantly, for 10 to 12 minutes or until most of the slime disappears. Season with Essence. Add the tomatoes, onions, and celery, stirring occasionally, cook for 18 to 20 minutes, or until the vegetables are wilted. Season with salt and cayenne Add the bay leaves, thyme, garlic and water. Stir and bring to a boil. Reduce to a simmer and cook for 15 minutes. Add the shrimp and cook for 30 minutes. Serve with rice and garnish with green onions and Essence.

Yield: 6 servings