Authentic Jambalaya is a delicious and hearty dish that comes from Louisiana. It combines rice, meats, and vegetables in a single pot, making it a one-stop meal that is perfect for family gatherings or weeknight dinners. The dish is full of flavor and can bring the warmth of Cajun and Creole cuisine right to your home.
Why Make This Recipe
Making jambalaya is a great way to feed a crowd or enjoy leftovers throughout the week. This dish allows for plenty of customization, whether you want to spice it up or keep it mild. Plus, it’s straightforward to make, which makes it a perfect choice for both beginners and experienced cooks. With its rich taste and filling ingredients, authentically made jambalaya is sure to please everyone at the table.
How to Make Authentic Jambalaya
Follow these simple steps to create an unforgettable jambalaya that bursts with flavor:
Ingredients
- 2 cups Long-grain white rice (washed and uncooked)
- 9-10 Shrimps (peeled and deveined)
- 10 ounces Sausage (smoked or regular)
- 1 lb Boneless chicken (diced)
- 2 ribs Celery (chopped)
- 1 large Onion (chopped)
- 2 Green onion (chopped)
- 1 can Crushed tomatoes (14 or 15 oz.)
- 2 tbsp Tomato paste
- 3-4 cloves Garlic (minced)
- 1 tsp Dried Thyme
- 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- 1 tsp Oregano
- 3-4 cups Chicken or vegetable broth (low sodium)
- Pinch Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooking oil
Directions
- In a bowl, combine the Cajun seasoning, black pepper, salt, oregano, and thyme. This will be used to season the chicken and shrimp.
- Heat some cooking oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and sausage, cooking them until they are browned and cooked through.
- Add the shrimp to the pot and cook for about 3-4 minutes, or until they turn pink.
- Stir in the chopped onion, celery, and minced garlic. Cook for a few more minutes until the vegetables soften.
- Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and the spice mixture. Mix well.
- Pour in the washed rice and broth. Stir everything together, making sure the rice is evenly distributed.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and cover the pot. Let it simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is fully cooked and has absorbed the liquid.
- Once done, fluff the rice with a fork and stir in the chopped green onions.
How to Serve Authentic Jambalaya
Serve your jambalaya hot in bowls. You can garnish it with additional green onions or even a sprinkle of parsley for added freshness. This dish is excellent on its own but can also be paired with a side salad or crusty bread for a complete meal.
How to Store Authentic Jambalaya
To store leftover jambalaya, let it cool down to room temperature. Then, transfer it into airtight containers and place it in the fridge. It can last for about 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it in portions. Just make sure to thaw it in the refrigerator before reheating.
Tips to Make Authentic Jambalaya
- Use a mix of meats for richer flavor; you can also add Andouille sausage for a spicy kick.
- If you want a smokier flavor, try using smoked sausage or adding some smoked paprika.
- Taste as you go; adjust the spice levels to ensure it fits your preference.
Variation
You can easily modify this recipe by adding different proteins like crawfish or even tofu for a vegetarian version. You can also add bell peppers for added sweetness and crunch.
FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, but you will need to adjust the cooking time and the amount of liquid since brown rice takes longer to cook.Can I make jambalaya in advance?
Absolutely! Jambalaya tastes even better the next day after the flavors have had time to meld.What can I do if I don’t have Cajun seasoning?
You can create your own blend using paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Adjust it to taste.
With this guide, you can now whip up an authentic jambalaya that’s sure to impress. Enjoy the cooking process and savor the delicious results!
Authentic Jambalaya
Ingredients
Main ingredients
- 2 cups Long-grain white rice (washed and uncooked)
- 9-10 pieces Shrimps (peeled and deveined)
- 10 ounces Sausage (smoked or regular) Use Andouille sausage for a spicy kick.
- 1 lb Boneless chicken (diced)
- 2 ribs Celery (chopped)
- 1 large Onion (chopped)
- 2 pieces Green onion (chopped) For garnish.
- 1 can Crushed tomatoes (14 or 15 oz.)
- 2 tbsp Tomato paste
- 3-4 cloves Garlic (minced)
- 1 tsp Dried Thyme
- 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- 1 tsp Oregano
- 3-4 cups Chicken or vegetable broth (low sodium)
- Pinch Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooking oil For sautéing.
Instructions
Preparation
- In a bowl, combine the Cajun seasoning, black pepper, salt, oregano, and thyme. This will be used to season the chicken and shrimp.
- Heat some cooking oil in a large pot over medium heat.
Cooking
- Add the diced chicken and sausage to the pot, cooking them until they are browned and cooked through.
- Add the shrimp to the pot and cook for about 3-4 minutes, or until they turn pink.
- Stir in the chopped onion, celery, and minced garlic. Cook for a few more minutes until the vegetables soften.
- Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and the spice mixture. Mix well.
- Pour in the washed rice and broth. Stir everything together, making sure the rice is evenly distributed.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and cover the pot. Let it simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is fully cooked and has absorbed the liquid.
- Once done, fluff the rice with a fork and stir in the chopped green onions.
