Easy-Does-It Jambalaya

Easy-Does-It Jambalaya Recipe - Delicious & Flavorful | USA

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 45 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Jambalaya is a classic Creole dish that originated in Louisiana, known for its bold flavors and hearty ingredients. This Easy-Does-It Jambalaya recipe is a simplified version of the traditional dish, perfect for a quick and delicious weeknight meal.

History

Jambalaya has its roots in Spanish and French cuisine, with influences from West African and Native American cooking techniques. The dish was created in Louisiana, where a mix of cultures and ingredients came together to create a unique and flavorful dish.

Ingredients

1 tsp olive oil
4 oz (113 g) turkey kielbasa link sausage, sliced
6 oz (170 g) cubed chicken thigh meat
12 oz (340 g) thawed pepper and onion mix
0.75 cup thinly sliced celery
1 can (14.5 oz (411 g)) diced tomatoes
2 bay leaves
0.5 tsp dried thyme
0.5 tsp sugar
2 garlic cloves, minced
0.25 tsp salt
6 oz (170 g) frozen uncooked medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
0.75 cup uncooked instant brown rice

How to prepare

Place a Dutch oven over medium heat until it is hot.
Add oil and sausage, and cook until the sausage begins to brown, stirring frequently.
Remove the sausage from the pot and set it aside.
Add the chicken to the pot and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
Add the pepper and onion mix, celery, tomatoes, bay leaves, thyme, sugar, and garlic.
Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat.
Reduce the heat, cover, and simmer for 30 minutes.
Add the shrimp and sausage.
Cover and cook for 5 minutes or until the shrimp is opaque in the center.
Remove from heat.
Add the rice and salt.
Cover and let it stand for 15 minutes to absorb flavors and cook the rice.
Serve immediately.
To freeze, cool the dish completely.
Spoon 1.5 cups of jambalaya into a 1 qt (946 ml) freezer resealable plastic food storage bag.
Release any excess air from the bag and seal it.
To thaw, place the bag in the refrigerator overnight.
Alternatively, place the bag on a microwave-safe plate.
Open the bag and cook on high for 3 minutes or until it is hot.

Variations

Swap out the sausage for Andouille sausage for a spicier kick.
Add in diced bell peppers, okra, or diced ham for additional flavor and texture.
Use white rice instead of brown rice for a different texture.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Use a Dutch oven or large pot to cook the jambalaya, as it allows for even cooking and simmering of the ingredients.

- Be sure to brown the sausage and chicken before adding the other ingredients, as this helps to develop the flavors of the dish.

- Let the jambalaya simmer for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together and the rice to cook through.

- Feel free to customize the recipe with your favorite proteins and vegetables for a personalized touch.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the jambalaya hot with a side of cornbread or crusty French bread for a complete meal. Garnish with chopped green onions or parsley for a pop of color and freshness.

Cooking Techniques

Searing the sausage and chicken before adding the other ingredients helps to develop a rich flavor base for the jambalaya.

- Simmering the jambalaya covered allows the flavors to meld together and the rice to cook through evenly.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use any type of sausage or protein you prefer, such as turkey sausage or tofu for a vegetarian option.

- Substitute the diced tomatoes with crushed tomatoes or tomato sauce for a smoother consistency.

Make Ahead Tips

Prepare the jambalaya ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the jambalaya in individual bowls garnished with a sprinkle of chopped parsley or green onions for a colorful and appetizing presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair this Easy-Does-It Jambalaya with a crisp green salad or a side of steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal. For a beverage, try a cold glass of sweet tea or a refreshing beer.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

320

Carbohydrates

- Total Carbohydrates: 31g

- Dietary Fiber: 3g

- Sugars: 5g

Fats

- Total Fat: 12g

- Saturated Fat: 4g

- Trans Fat: 0g

Proteins

- Protein: 21g

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin A: 10%

- Vitamin C: 20%

- Calcium: 6%

- Iron: 15%

Alergens

Contains: Shellfish, Gluten

Summary

This Easy-Does-It Jambalaya is a well-balanced meal with a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. It is rich in vitamins and minerals, making it a nutritious and satisfying dish.

Summary

This Easy-Does-It Jambalaya recipe is a simple and delicious take on the classic Creole dish, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal. With a mix of bold flavors and hearty ingredients, this jambalaya is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the joy I felt when I first stumbled upon this recipe for Easy-Does-It Jambalaya. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend, Mrs. Jenkins, in her cozy kitchen. Mrs. Jenkins was known for her delicious Southern cooking, and I always looked forward to our cooking sessions together.

As we chatted over a cup of tea, Mrs. Jenkins suddenly remembered a recipe that she had been wanting to share with me. She rummaged through her old recipe box and pulled out a faded, stained card with the words "Easy-Does-It Jambalaya" scrawled across the top. She explained that this recipe had been passed down to her from her own grandmother, who had learned it from a Cajun friend many years ago.

I watched intently as Mrs. Jenkins gathered the ingredients for the jambalaya. The recipe called for simple, everyday ingredients like bell peppers, onions, celery, and sausage. Mrs. Jenkins explained that the key to a good jambalaya was to let the flavors meld together slowly, creating a rich and hearty dish that would warm the soul.

As we chopped and stirred, Mrs. Jenkins shared stories of her grandmother and the Cajun friend who had taught her the recipe. She described how her grandmother had a knack for taking simple ingredients and turning them into something magical, and how her Cajun friend had a fiery passion for cooking that was infectious.

As the jambalaya simmered on the stove, filling the kitchen with its mouth-watering aroma, Mrs. Jenkins and I sat down to enjoy a steaming bowl together. The flavors were bold and comforting, with just the right amount of spice to tickle the taste buds. I couldn't believe how easy it was to make such a delicious dish, thanks to Mrs. Jenkins and her treasured recipe.

From that day on, Easy-Does-It Jambalaya became a staple in my own kitchen. I would often make it for family gatherings and potlucks, always receiving rave reviews from friends and loved ones. I loved how versatile the recipe was – I could switch up the ingredients depending on what I had on hand, and it always turned out delicious.

Over the years, I would add my own twist to the jambalaya recipe, experimenting with different seasonings and proteins. I even started teaching my own grandchildren how to make it, passing down the tradition from Mrs. Jenkins to me to them.

As I look back on that fateful day in Mrs. Jenkins' kitchen, I can't help but smile at the memories we shared over a steaming bowl of Easy-Does-It Jambalaya. It's amazing how a simple recipe can bring people together, creating bonds that last a lifetime. I'm grateful for the lessons I learned from Mrs. Jenkins and her grandmother, and I can't wait to pass on the tradition to future generations. Cooking truly is a gift that keeps on giving, and I'm so thankful to have learned the art of Easy-Does-It Jambalaya.