How to Make Gumbo Roux in the Oven

How to Make Gumbo Roux in the Oven

Making oven roux takes a little longer than the traditional method, but is much easier! You only have to stir it a few times. Tastes just as good as the traditional roux method.

Course Ingredient

Cuisine American, Cajun, French

Keyword gumbo, gumbo roux, roux

Prep Time 5

Cook Time 2 15

Total Time 2 20

Servings

Calories 250kcal

Author Lauren LeBlanc

Equipment

Heavy cast iron pot or skillet
Wooden spoon or silicon spatula

Ingredients

1 ¼ cup all purpose flour
1 cup vegetable oil

Instructions

PREP: Preheat the oven 350°F (175°C).
MIX: Combine oil and flour in your pot or skillet and mix well. Place mixture in the oven. Set a timer for 30 minutes.
STIR: Remove the roux from the oven and gently stir, making sure to scrape up the bottom well. Put back in the oven for another 30 minutes. Repeat for a total of 90 minutes, then check back in 15 minute increments until the roux is a deep chocolate brown. It should take about 2 to 2.5 hours.
USE: If you are making gumbo now, Transfer the roux to your pot and continue cooking as usual.
STORE: If you are storing roux for later use, allow it to cool completely, then store in an airtight jar.

Notes

The ratio for roux is commonly 1:1, but I prefer slightly more flour than oil to make the final gumbo less oily. You can also use ¾ cup oil instead.
400°F also works for this roux, you will just have to check it more frequently.
Double or triple this recipe to make a larger gumbo, or to store some for later. This will increase cooking time. (A double batch at 400°F will take about 3 hours).
Recipe makes 1 ¼ cup of roux which is enough for a gumbo with 8-10 servings.
Store roux at room temperature for 2-3 days, in the refrigerator for up to 6 months, or in the freezer for up to a year.
A hot pan will continue cooking the roux even when it’s removed from heat, so remove it from the oven a little before your desired color, or transfer the roux to a heat safe container when it’s done.
If you need a gumbo recipe, try Chicken and Sausage Gumbo or Slow Cooker Gumbo.

Nutrition