Description
A flavorful and hearty Shrimp and Sausage Jambalaya recipe perfect for a cozy night in. This dish combines succulent shrimp, smoky sausage, aromatic vegetables, and a blend of Cajun spices simmered with rice in a savory broth to create a satisfying one-pot meal in just 30 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein
- 1 lb large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
- 8 oz smoked sausage (sliced)
Vegetables
- 1 medium onion (diced)
- 1 cup bell peppers (mixed colors, diced)
- 1 cup celery (chopped)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 cup okra (sliced)
- 2 tbsp green onions (chopped, for garnish)
Pantry
- 1 cup long-grain rice (not quick-cooking)
- 2 cups chicken broth (can substitute with vegetable broth)
- 14.5 oz canned diced tomatoes
- 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- to taste hot sauce (for extra heat)
- a splash of olive oil (for sautéing)
Instructions
- Prepare the Aromatics: In a large pot over medium heat, add a splash of olive oil and sauté the diced onion, bell peppers, and celery until they soften, about 5 minutes.
- Add Garlic: Toss in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring frequently until fragrant.
- Cook Sausage: Stir in the sliced smoked sausage and cook for about 3-4 minutes until it is browned and releases its smoky flavor.
- Add Seasonings and Tomatoes: Stir in the Cajun seasoning and canned diced tomatoes, mixing well and letting the mixture simmer for 2 minutes to marry the flavors.
- Add Broth and Rice: Gradually pour in the chicken broth and add the long-grain rice, stirring well. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for 15 minutes until the rice is tender.
- Cook Shrimp: Once the rice is tender, gently fold in the peeled and deveined shrimp and cook for another 5 minutes until the shrimp turn pink and opaque.
- Season to Taste: Taste the jambalaya and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or additional Cajun seasoning as desired. Add hot sauce if extra heat is preferred.
- Rest and Garnish: Remove the pot from heat and let the jambalaya rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped green onions for a fresh finish.
Notes
- Use a non-quick-cooking long-grain rice to ensure proper texture.
- Substitute vegetable broth for a lighter or vegetarian-friendly version.
- Add okra for additional texture and authenticity.
- Adjust heat levels by adding hot sauce to taste.
- Letting the dish rest before serving helps flavors meld together.
