Gumbo: A Southern Staple (And Where to Get It)

With so many rich food traditions across the South, it’s no surprise that many travelers have a long list of must-have dishes to try during their visits.

And if you’re looking for gumbo, it’s hard to beat the delicious options served up in Vicksburg, Mississippi. With every bite, the history of this classic dish comes to life with bold Creole flavor. Visit Vicksburg offers an overview of this timeless Southern staple and the gumbo restaurants where you can enjoy it – so be sure to bring your appetite.

Credit: Gumbo Pot, Vicksburg MS

The Delicious History of Gumbo

One of the oldest stews in American history, gumbo originated in Louisiana in the early 1800s. It exploded in popularity thanks to its affordability, allowing everyone who savored a bowl to dine like royalty. As trading grew along the Mississippi River, the dish was introduced to Mississippi and the rest is history.

Gumbo has become a Southern staple for plenty of reasons, including its delicious ingredients and international origins. With a name taken from the West African word for okra, gumbo begins with a dark roux, a mix of flour and cooking fat created to thicken sauces. In fact, gumbo is one of the first dishes in the U.S. to make use of this French culinary technique. Recipes vary from cook to cook, but gumbo can include any of the following:

  • Okra
  • Filé powder, made from dried sassafras leaves
  • The Holy Trinity of Creole cooking: celery, onions and bell peppers
  • Oysters, shrimp, crab or other seafood
  • Chicken, beef, sausage and/or ham
  • Greens

Served up with steaming bowls of rice, gumbo creates a hearty meal that’s packed with local flavor and sure to leave you craving a second helping.

A Local Take on a Southern Favorite

Whether you’re a lifelong gumbo lover or trying the dish for the first time, nobody does it like the gumbo restaurants in Vicksburg. When you’re in town, be sure to check out the following spots:

  • Gumbo Pot – 3401 Halls Ferry Rd, Suite 5, Vicksburg, MS 39180
    • Gumbo lovers will find favorite Prejeant family recipes loaded with seafood, chicken and sausage, plus po’ boys, BBQ, oysters and more. Whatever you choose, you’ll enjoy fresh, high-quality ingredients and welcoming customer service in a fine-dining environment.
  • Main Street Market Café – 902 Cherry St, Vicksburg, MS 39183
    • This family-owned establishment will make you feel right at home. Though the menu changes daily, you can find New Orleans-themed dishes every Monday and other days of the week, which include Chris’ Chicken & Andouille Gumbo with Rice.
  • Rusty’s Riverfront Grill – 901 Washington St, Vicksburg, MS 39180
    • Rusty’s offers New Orleans-style gumbo with a Vicksburg twist. Try the Cajun Seafood Gumbo, which features fresh shrimp, oysters, fish and sausage. Guests enjoy the relaxed atmosphere and easy proximity to the Riverfront Murals.

Plan Your Trip Today

Whether you come to Vicksburg for Civil War history, casino gaming or any of the many things to do in the city, you’ll want to make time for a visit to one or two gumbo restaurants to complete your trip. Contact Visit Vicksburg today for our free visitors guide and information about all there is to enjoy here in Vicksburg, MS.

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