Mgm Grand Spicy Jambalaya

Mgm Grand Spicy Jambalaya Recipe - Authentic American Cuisine

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 2 hours | Servings: 20

Introduction

MGM Grand Spicy Jambalaya is a flavorful and hearty dish that combines a variety of meats, vegetables, and spices to create a delicious Cajun-inspired meal. This recipe is perfect for feeding a crowd or for a cozy night in with the family.

History

Jambalaya is a traditional Louisiana Creole dish that has its roots in Spanish and French cuisine. It is believed to have originated in the Caribbean, where Spanish settlers created a dish similar to paella using local ingredients. Over time, the dish evolved in Louisiana to include a mix of meats, vegetables, and spices, creating the flavorful jambalaya we know today.

Ingredients

6 bay leaves
10 lb (4.54 kg) diced ham
2 gallons water
oil, for sautéing
5 lb (2.27 kg) diced chicken breast
2 lb (907 g) chopped onion
2 lb (907 g) celery
1.5 lb (680 g) chopped green pepper
1 cup chopped green onion
2 lb (907 g) diced tomatoes
2 cup tomato paste
3 tbsp chopped parsley
4 oz (113 g) crushed garlic
2 tsp dried thyme
2 tsp cayenne pepper
0.25 cup worcestershire sauce
3 lb (1.36 kg) smoked sausage
3 lb (1.36 kg) steamed rice
salt

How to prepare

In a pot, combine bay leaves, diced ham, and water.
Bring to a boil and let it simmer for 1 hour.
In a separate pan, heat oil.
Add diced chicken, onions, and celery.
Sauté until tender, then add peppers, onions, and diced tomatoes.
Stir in tomato paste, chopped parsley, crushed garlic, dried thyme, cayenne pepper, Worcestershire sauce, and smoked sausage.
Add cooked rice to the jambalaya and season with salt to taste.

Variations

Add shrimp or crawfish for a seafood twist.
Use different types of sausage, such as andouille or chorizo, for a unique flavor profile.
Experiment with different vegetables, such as okra or bell peppers, to customize the dish to your liking.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to simmer the ham in water for at least an hour to infuse the broth with flavor.

- Sautéing the chicken, onions, and celery before adding the other ingredients helps to build layers of flavor in the dish.

- Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to suit your spice preference.

- Let the jambalaya simmer for a while to allow the flavors to meld together.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the jambalaya with a side of cornbread or crusty French bread.

- Garnish with chopped green onions or fresh parsley for a pop of color.

Cooking Techniques

Simmering the ham in water creates a flavorful broth for the jambalaya.

- Sautéing the chicken and vegetables before adding the other ingredients helps to develop the flavors of the dish.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use turkey or chicken sausage instead of smoked sausage for a lighter option.

- Substitute brown rice for white rice for added fiber and nutrients.

Make Ahead Tips

This jambalaya can be made ahead of time and reheated before serving. Simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the jambalaya in a large serving dish and garnish with fresh herbs for a beautiful presentation. - For a casual meal, serve the jambalaya in individual bowls with a side of cornbread.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair this jambalaya with a crisp salad or coleslaw for a complete meal.

- Serve with a glass of sweet tea or a cold beer for a refreshing beverage option.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

- Reheat the jambalaya in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

400 per serving

Carbohydrates

45g per serving

Fats

- Total Fat: 18g per serving

- Saturated Fat: 6g per serving

Proteins

- Protein: 25g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin A: 15% DV

- Vitamin C: 30% DV

- Iron: 20% DV

Alergens

Contains: Soy

Summary

This jambalaya is a balanced meal with a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. It is also rich in vitamins and minerals, making it a nutritious choice for a satisfying meal.

Summary

MGM Grand Spicy Jambalaya is a delicious and satisfying dish that is perfect for feeding a crowd or for a cozy night in. With a mix of meats, vegetables, and spices, this Cajun-inspired recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy the bold flavors of this jambalaya and savor every bite!

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was drawn to it like a magnet. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my friend Martha in New Orleans. She had invited me over for lunch, and as soon as I walked into her kitchen, I could smell the delicious aroma of spices and herbs wafting through the air.

Martha was busy chopping vegetables and stirring a large pot on the stove. "What are you making?" I asked, curious about the tantalizing scent that filled the room. Martha smiled and replied, "I'm making my famous MGM Grand Spicy Jambalaya. It's a recipe that has been passed down in my family for generations."

Intrigued, I pulled up a chair and watched as Martha worked her magic in the kitchen. She explained each step of the recipe to me, from the combination of meats and seafood to the secret blend of Cajun spices that gave the dish its unique flavor.

As the jambalaya simmered on the stove, Martha shared with me the story of how she had learned to make this dish. She told me that her grandmother had taught her the recipe when she was just a young girl, and that she had spent countless hours in the kitchen perfecting her technique.

I was captivated by Martha's passion for cooking and her dedication to preserving her family's culinary traditions. I could see the love and care that went into each and every ingredient, and I knew that I had to learn how to make this dish for myself.

After lunch, Martha handed me a handwritten copy of the recipe for her MGM Grand Spicy Jambalaya. She told me to practice making it at home and to let her know how it turned out. I thanked her profusely and promised to keep her updated on my progress.

Over the next few weeks, I spent hours in my own kitchen, experimenting with the recipe and making adjustments to suit my own taste. I tried different combinations of meats and seafood, played around with the spice levels, and added my own personal touches to make the dish truly my own.

Each time I made the jambalaya, I felt a sense of connection to Martha and her family. I could almost hear her grandmother's voice guiding me through the steps, and I could feel the love and tradition that had been passed down through the generations.

Finally, after many trials and errors, I felt confident enough to invite Martha over for dinner and serve her my version of the MGM Grand Spicy Jambalaya. As she took her first bite, a smile spread across her face, and I knew that I had done justice to her family recipe.

"That is delicious, my dear," Martha said, wiping a tear from her eye. "You have truly captured the spirit of the jambalaya. I am so proud of you."

I felt a swell of pride in my chest as I watched Martha enjoy the dish that had brought us together. It was more than just a recipe; it was a connection to the past, a celebration of family and tradition, and a testament to the power of food to bring people together.

From that day on, Martha and I continued to share our love of cooking and our passion for preserving our family's recipes. We spent countless hours in the kitchen, swapping stories and creating new dishes, but the MGM Grand Spicy Jambalaya always held a special place in our hearts.

As I look back on that fateful day in Martha's kitchen, I am grateful for the serendipitous encounter that led me to discover this incredible recipe. It has brought me closer to my friend, enriched my culinary skills, and filled my home with the warm and comforting aroma of Cajun spices.

And so, I pass on Martha's recipe for the MGM Grand Spicy Jambalaya to you, dear reader. May it bring you as much joy and connection as it has brought me, and may it inspire you to create your own culinary traditions and memories with those you love. Bon appétit!