1. Heat the oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onion, bell pepper, celery and garlic. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.

2. Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and cook, stirring, for 2 minutes.

3. Slowly whisk in the broth and tomato paste, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.

4. Add the thyme, oregano, paprika, cayenne pepper, Worcestershire sauce and bay leaves. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 20 minutes.

5. Add the okra, chicken or sausage, shrimp, crabmeat, parsley, hot sauce and file powder. Simmer for 10 minutes.

6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot.