Description

[For our Gumbo Filé Powder, which includes thyme, click here]

Ground Sassafras Leaf Filé – A Cajun Kitchen Essential

Ground Sassafras Leaf Filé is an essential ingredient in Cajun and Creole cooking, best known for its role in gumbo as a natural thickener and flavor enhancer. This finely ground seasoning is made from pure sassafras leaves, giving dishes a rich, earthy taste with subtle citrus notes. Used for generations in Louisiana cuisine, it enhances not only gumbo but also soups, stews, and herbal teas.

Ingredients: Ground Sassafras Leaf – 100% pure Sassafras albidum, free from additives or fillers.

What is Ground Sassafras Leaf Filé?

Filé powder, made from dried and ground sassafras leaves, is a traditional seasoning in Southern cooking. When added at the end of cooking, it thickens gumbo and other stews while adding depth of flavor. It has also been historically used in herbal teas and spice blends.

Culinary Uses

  • Gumbo & Cajun Cuisine – Thickens and flavors traditional Louisiana dishes.
  • Herbal Teas – Brewed for a warm, fragrant drink with earthy and citrusy notes.
  • Soups & Sauces – Adds depth to broths, gravies, and slow-cooked meals.
  • Seasoning Blends – Works well in spice rubs for meats, seafood, and vegetables.

Nutritional Information (Per 1 tsp – Approx. 2g):

  • Calories: 5
  • Carbohydrates: 1g
  • Dietary Fiber: 0.5g
  • Fat, Protein, Sodium: 0g

How to Use Ground Sassafras Leaf Filé

To maximize its thickening ability and maintain its delicate flavor, stir Ground Sassafras Leaf Filé into hot dishes just before serving. When used for tea, steep in hot water for 5–10 minutes to extract its full aroma and benefits.

Cooking with Ground Sassafras Leaf Filé

Best known for its essential role in gumbo, this versatile spice is also used in homemade seasoning blends and as an earthy addition to rice-based dishes. It has been a part of Cajun cooking for centuries, offering a unique texture and bold flavor.

For more on the culinary history of sassafras, visit Southern Foodways Alliance.