Cook rice set aside

In large pot cook oil and flour until it comes to a dark brown color (medium/high heat, constantly stirring)

Now add onion, bell pepper, celery and garlic to that mixture (also known as a roux) sautee for 4 minutes

Add rest of ingredients to pot and bring to a boil, now lower temperture to simmer and cover for 1hour

Pour gumbo mixture over rice and enjoy

*** You can add things like okra, sausage, chicken, oysters, crabmeat, shrimp, scallops ect... When adding seafood add towards the end of cooking process so it doesnt over cook. Always cook meat before adding to mixture. File' powder is always nice on top too but is an option.