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File powder isn't sold locally. I know it is made from Sassafras leaves, but I don't recall ever seeing those locally either. What are my options for a something that is more common that I might use as a substitute?

John Robertson
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    It's a unique flavor. Plus it has the thickening power. Okra is traditional as well, but it's not a substitute. File is readily available by mail order, if that is at all helpful. – Jolenealaska Mar 27 '14 at 01:55
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    Here it is on [Amazon](http://www.amazon.com/Zatarains-Pure-Ground-Gumbo-File/dp/B001Q91922/ref=sr_1_1?s=grocery&ie=UTF8&qid=1395887311&sr=1-1&keywords=file+powder) Note, out of 21 reviews, 18 are 5 star. The remaining 3 are 4 star. Good Stuff! – Jolenealaska Mar 27 '14 at 02:29

2 Answers2

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File powder is mostly used for thickening gumbo, and there are two schools of thought on that (armed with shotguns and rifles, so trifle with them at your peril): file gumbo and okra gumbo.

A file gumbo is thickened with file (typically added by the diner at before eating the gumbo), as mentioned. An okra gumbo is thickened with... well.. okra.

It is possible, but not traditional, to combine the two in the same recipe.

If gumbo is your goal, consider making a an okra version.

Otherwise, if you are using it for its unique flavor, there probably is no substitution. If you are using it for its thickening properties, depending on the recipe, you might try a roux, cornstarch, or arrowroot.

SAJ14SAJ
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For thickening,flour or corn starch would be the route I would go. And for (feelay) file substitute flavoring, I use root beer where water is called for. Hard to tell the difference if you even can.

Arlene M
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