When it comes to adding bold flavors to your dishes, Cajun cuisine never disappoints. Today, we’re bringing a taste of the Louisiana bayous to your kitchen with a delicious recipe for Cajun Tomato Gravy. This rich and savory gravy combines the classic flavors of Cajun seasoning with the vibrant acidity of tomatoes, creating a flavorful base that pairs perfectly with biscuits, fried chicken, or even over a bowl of fluffy rice. Let’s dive into making this comforting and versatile Cajun Tomato Gravy.
**Cajun Tomato Gravy**
**Ingredients:**
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 1 green bell pepper, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1 (14 oz) can crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Hot sauce (optional, for extra heat)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
**Instructions:**
1. **Sauté the Aromatics:** In a large skillet or saucepan, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and green bell pepper, and sauté until they begin to soften, about 5 minutes.
2. **Add the Garlic and Cajun Seasoning:** Stir in the minced garlic and Cajun seasoning. Allow the spices to toast for about a minute until fragrant, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
3. **Create the Roux:** Sprinkle the flour over the mixture and stir well to combine. Cook the roux for a couple of minutes until it turns a slightly darker shade, which will help thicken the gravy.
4. **Incorporate the Tomatoes and Broth:** Pour in the crushed tomatoes and chicken or vegetable broth, stirring to combine all the ingredients. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
5. **Simmer and Season:** Allow the gravy to simmer for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Taste the gravy and season with salt and pepper according to your preference. If you like a bit of heat, add a few dashes of hot sauce at this stage.
6. **Adjust Consistency:** If the gravy seems too thick, you can add a bit more broth to reach your desired consistency. Conversely, if it’s too thin, you can simmer it for a bit longer to reduce and thicken.
7. **Serve:** Once the gravy has thickened to your liking, remove it from the heat. Serve the Cajun Tomato Gravy warm over biscuits, fried chicken, mashed potatoes, or any other dish of your choice. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
There you have it – a taste of the vibrant and soulful flavors of Louisiana right in your home kitchen. This Cajun Tomato Gravy is sure to add a spicy kick and comforting warmth to your meals, making it a versatile and flavorful addition to your recipe repertoire. Enjoy the bold flavors and cozy comfort of this delicious gravy!
