Shrimp Gumbo

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 pounds medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 3 cups chopped okra
• 2 onions, chopped
• 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes
• 2 quarts water
• 1 bay leaf
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• ground black pepper to taste

Directions

In a large skillet over high heat, add 2 tablespoons oil and flour to the pan, and whisk together quickly. Continue cooking and stirring until a dark roux forms. Stir in shrimp. Cook and stir for a few minutes, until the shrimp turns pink. Set aside.

In another pan, heat 2 tablespoons oil over medium heat. Stir in okra and onions; cook until okra is tender. Mix in tomatoes. Add water, bay leaf, garlic, salt, red pepper, and the shrimp mixture. Cover, and cook slowly for 30 minutes.