Frequently Asked Questions
What is Spicy Black-Eyed Pea and Sausage Gumbo?
It is a hearty and flavorful dish featuring tender ranch-style black-eyed peas, smoky sausage, and zesty jalapenos, perfect for cold weather.
What type of black-eyed peas are used in this recipe?
The recipe calls for one 15-ounce can of regular Ranch Style Black-Eyed Peas and one 15-ounce can of Ranch Style Black-Eyed Peas with jalapenos.
Can I make this gumbo in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can cook it in a large crock pot on high for at least 3 hours.
Is there a stovetop version of this recipe?
Yes, bring the ingredients to a simmer on the stovetop and cook for approximately 45 to 60 minutes, stirring occasionally.
What kind of sausage should I use?
The recipe recommends one pound of sausage links, preferably with jalapenos, sliced into bite-sized pieces.
How can I adjust the spiciness of the gumbo?
You can customize the heat by adjusting the amount of Tabasco, using Rotel tomatoes, or adding extra spicy ingredients like more diced green chilies.
What type of broth is required?
The recipe uses one 14-ounce can of beef broth.
Do I need to include celery?
Celery is listed as an optional ingredient; you can add it diced if you prefer the extra texture and flavor.
How do I prepare the bell pepper?
The bell pepper should be sliced into thin strips before being added to the pot.
What kind of rice is recommended?
The recipe suggests using two 7-ounce bags of 10-Minute Success Rice, cooked according to package directions.
When should I add the rice to the gumbo?
Add the cooked rice directly to the crock pot about 30 minutes before serving, or serve it separately in bowls.
How many calories are in a serving?
There are approximately 200 calories per serving.
What is the fat content per serving?
This gumbo contains 4.5 grams of fat per serving.
How much protein does this dish provide?
Each serving contains 10 grams of protein.
Is this gumbo high in fiber?
Yes, it provides 6 grams of fiber per serving.
What is the carbohydrate count?
There are 25 grams of carbohydrates per serving.
What size crock pot is recommended?
A 3-quart or larger crock pot is recommended for this recipe.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, you can create a vegetarian version by using vegetable broth and a plant-based sausage alternative.
How should I handle leftovers the next day?
To maintain a delicious consistency when reheating leftovers, consider adding extra beef broth, tomato juice, or tomato sauce.
What kind of tomatoes are best?
A 10-ounce can of diced tomatoes is needed; using Rotel brand is suggested for those who want extra spice.
Are the green chilies fresh or canned?
The recipe calls for one 4-ounce can of diced green chilies.
Can I prep the ingredients in advance?
Absolutely; you can slice the peppers and sausage and dice the celery ahead of time to speed up the process.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes, it is excellent for meal prep as the flavors often improve after sitting, making it a great lunch option.
What is the total ingredient count?
The recipe consists of 9 main ingredients.
Does this dish contain added sugar?
Based on the nutritional information provided, there is no added sugar listed.
How do I serve this for a crowd?
Serve it over fluffy rice in deep bowls, perhaps with a side of cornbread for a complete meal.
Can I use dry black-eyed peas instead of canned?
The recipe is designed for canned peas; if using dry, you must soak and cook them thoroughly before following the gumbo instructions.
Is this gumbo gluten-free?
It can be if you ensure your sausage and broth are certified gluten-free, as the main ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
Can I use chicken broth instead of beef broth?
Yes, chicken broth can be substituted, though it will slightly change the depth of the flavor profile.
What makes this gumbo a 'Spicy' version?
The combination of jalapeno-infused peas, jalapeno sausage, Rotel tomatoes, and green chilies provides a significant kick.