Shhh…it’s the secret ingredient your gumbo is missing.
But if you have no idea what the heck file powder is, youre in the right place.
Lets get into it.
Credit:Fred Hardy, Food Stylist: Margaret Monroe Dickey, Prop Stylist: Shell Royster
So, What Is File Powder?
What Is File Powder Used For?
This unassuming powder is a popular ingredient inCajundishes, especially gumbo.
Its used by some cooks to help thicken gumbo in the same way that okra does.
The name file comes from the French verb filer, which means to make stringy or ropey.
And thats exactly what it does for gumbo.
When Do You Use File Powder?
File powder should only be added at the very end of cooking your gumbo, off the heat.
If the temperature is too hot, the file will clump up and not thicken the gumbo.
What If You Dont Have File Powder?
Stir some fresh or frozen chopped okra into your gumbo for an extra thickening kick.
