Filé powder is a Creole seasoning made from ground sassafras tree leaves that's believed to have been first used by Choctaw Indians in the Louisiana bayou country.

Used to thicken and flavor gumbo, filé powder is added to a dish after it's been taken off the heat since overcooking it can make it turn stringy.

Sometimes referred to as gumbo filé, the powder can be used as a substitute for okra. It is also used to flavor tasso before it is smoked.

Related article: What is gumbo? (Cookthink)