1 tsp. ground Ancho pepper (optional for extra heat)
10 cups cold chicken stock or broth
2 tbsp. brown sugar
2 bay leaves
1/2 lb. shrimp, cleaned and peeled with tails removed
Salt and Pepper to taste
Instructions
Combine the melted butter and flour in a large heavy pot, stirring
constantly over media heat. Cook until the roux is a dark, chocolate
brown color (about 20 to 25 minutes).
Add the chopped onions, green peppers, celery, Andouille sausage
and Tasso smoked meat. Cook, stirring continuously, until the
vegetables are very soft (about 8 to 10 minutes).
Add the paprika, the "Emeril's Bayou Blast" and the gumbo file. If
you want a spicier dish, add the Ancho pepper. Cook for about 1-2
minutes.
Add the cold chicken stock or broth. Stir until the roux mixture and the broth are well combined.
Add the bay leaves and the brown sugar, bringing the mixture to a
boil. Reduce the heat to medium low and cook uncovered, stirring
occasionally, for about 1 to 1-1/2 hours.
Add shrimp to the soup approximately 15 to 20 minutes prior to
serving (size of the shrimp will determine how long they need to cook).
Add salt and pepper to taste.