Created by MsPia on August 27, 2014
Step 1: In a small bowl, thoroughly combine seasoning mix ingredients; sprinkle some on meat, rubbing it into both sides.Reserve leftover seasoning.
Step 2: In a large, heavy skillet, heat olive oil.
Step 3: Meanwhile, combine 1 1/2 tsp of seasoning mix with flour in a shallow pan; dredge meat in flour.Brown meat on both sides in the hot oil.Remove from skillet and set aside.
Step 4: Add 4 cups of the okra to the skillet.Fry over high heat until dark brown, about 8 minutes, stirring occasionally.Add the tasso, 1 cup of the onion, the butter, and t tsp of the seasoning mix.Cook over high heat 4 minutes, stirring frequently.Add the bay leaves, 1/2 cup of the stock and the Tabasco; continue cooking 4 minutes, stirring often.Add 1/2 cup more stock; cook 5 minutes, stirring occasionally and scraping pan bottom well if mixture starts to stick.Add 1/2 cup more stock and continue cooking 3 minutes, stirring occasionally.Add the remaining 2 cups onion, the celery, bell pepper and the seasoning mix; stir well.Cook 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Step 5: Stir in the tomato, jalapeno pepper, and garlic.Cook 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Step 6: Transfer mixture to a gumbo or large soup pot.Add the remaining 6 cups of stock and the meat.Cover and cook over high heat for 10 minutes.
Step 7: Add the remaining 4 cups okra and lower heat to a simmer.Cook, covered, until meat is tender, about 20 minutes, being careful not to let gumbo scorch.Add shrimp, cover, and remove from heat; let sit 10 minutes.
Step 8: Serve immediately in bowls, allowing for each person about 1/3 cup rice and 1 1/2 cups gumbo poured on top.