Filé Powder

Filé Powder (pronounced fee-lay) is powdered sassafras leaves, an essential ingredient in Cajun and Creole cuisine. It is used as a mild flavoring agent and thickener in gumbo and other traditional soups and stews.

Add filé powder in the final stage of cooking your gumbo or stew to thicken it to the desired consistency. Start with only 1/4 teaspoon and add it slowly to avoid over-thickening.