Gumbo Filé

Gumbo Filé is a spice made from the dried, ground leaves of the Sassafras tree. Often used to thicken gumbo, it also adds a distinctive flavour that is earthy and similar to the combination of thyme and savoury. Gumbo Filé must be added to into the dish after it has been removed from heat, as undue cooking makes Gumbo Filé tough and stringy.