Ronnie Dingman, President of Operations with J. Gumbo’s, won’t take chances when it comes to the quality of ingredients he uses in their signature Jambalaya, Gumbo and Red Beans & Rice. That’s why this fast growing, fast-casual Cajun and Creole concept switched to Hillshire Farm® Black Oak™ Smoked Sausage. “Black Oak Smoked Sausage is an amazing product and really enhances the overall quality of our food.”
Dingman tested a variety of sausages in the company’s authentic Bayou recipes but said the difference with Black Oak was immediate. “It has a great flavor profile with just the right hint of sweetness, which made it a perfect complement in our savory recipes.” Black Oak Smoked Sausage also helps J. Gumbo’s maintain stringent quality standards in their big bowl entrees throughout the day. “From the time we open for lunch at 11:00am until we close after dinner, it stays moist and doesn’t shrink or shrivel. It is very consistent throughout the day.”
J. Gumbo’s touts the “fresh, bold flavors of the Bayou State” in every one of their dishes, all under the company slogan “We put our soul in the bowl!” With 20 units and an aggressive growth plan, Ronnie Dingman says Black Oak Smoked Sausage will help them market a better-quality sausage in their dishes. “With Black Oak, Sara Lee Foodservice has helped us reduce waste and increase the quality of our bowls without increasing costs.”