Sausage and Rice Jamba: A Savory Fusion of Flavors
Prep Time: 1 hour
Cook Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 2 hours
Recipe Category: Brown Rice
Cuisine: Fusion (Inspired by Jambalaya)
Introduction:
If you’re craving something hearty yet different from the traditional jambalaya, this Sausage and Rice Jamba recipe will surely hit the spot. A delightful blend of brown rice, spicy Italian sausage, and sautéed vegetables, this dish is perfect for those who want a flavorful meal with a bit of a twist. Inspired by the flavors of jambalaya but distinct enough to stand on its own, this recipe is ideal for a weeknight dinner or as a flavorful side dish to accompany your favorite mains. Not too spicy but with a rich, savory taste, it’s a customizable dish that can be made as spicy or mild as you like. Add shrimp for a more authentic jambalaya-inspired meal, or simply enjoy it on its own.
Ingredients
Ingredient | Quantity |
---|---|
Brown Rice | 2 cups |
Water | 4 cups |
Hot Italian Sausage | 1 1/2 pounds |
Olive Oil | 1 tablespoon |
Green Bell Pepper | 1, diced |
Zucchini | 1, sliced |
Onion | 1, chopped |
Tomatoes | 1 can (14.5 ounces) |
Garlic | 4 cloves, minced |
Cayenne Pepper | 1/2 teaspoon |
Chili Powder | 1 teaspoon |
Dried Oregano | 1 teaspoon |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving – based on 4 servings)
Nutrient | Amount |
---|---|
Calories | 511.8 kcal |
Fat Content | 26.7 g |
Saturated Fat Content | 8.7 g |
Cholesterol Content | 48.5 mg |
Sodium Content | 1049.5 mg |
Carbohydrate Content | 46.6 g |
Fiber Content | 3.9 g |
Sugar Content | 4.8 g |
Protein Content | 21.4 g |
Instructions
-
Cook the Brown Rice:
Begin by bringing 4 cups of water to a boil in a medium saucepan. Add the 2 cups of brown rice along with a pinch of salt. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover with a lid, and let it simmer for 40 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside. This step will yield 4 to 6 cups of cooked rice, depending on the consistency you prefer. -
Cook the Sausage:
While the rice is simmering, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the hot Italian sausage on a baking pan and cook it for about 45 to 60 minutes, turning the sausages halfway through for even cooking. Once cooked, remove from the oven and cut the sausages into 1/4-inch hunks. -
Sauté the Vegetables:
In a non-stick frying pan, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Add the diced green bell pepper and sliced zucchini, and continue to sauté for another 5 minutes, allowing the vegetables to soften and become aromatic. -
Create the Sauce:
Stir in the canned tomatoes (with juices), minced garlic, cayenne pepper, chili powder, and dried oregano into the vegetable mix. Stir frequently and let everything cook down until the mixture becomes saucy, about 5-7 minutes. The vegetables should be tender, and the flavors should meld together. -
Combine the Rice, Sausage, and Sauce:
In a large bowl or a Dutch oven, combine the cooked rice, sautéed vegetable sauce, and sausage hunks. Stir everything together, making sure the rice is well-coated with the sauce and sausage. -
Final Touches and Serve:
Once everything is well combined, serve the Sausage and Rice Jamba hot, with a side of tossed or green salad for a refreshing contrast. You can also add cooked shrimp to the dish for extra flavor and protein if desired.
Notes & Tips:
- For a milder version of this dish, feel free to use sweet Italian sausage instead of the hot variety. You can also reduce the amount of cayenne pepper and chili powder to suit your taste.
- This dish is highly customizable, so feel free to add extra vegetables like carrots, celery, or even peas for more color and texture.
- If you want a true jambalaya feel, adding shrimp towards the end of the cooking process will make this dish closer to the classic version.
- For a richer flavor, you can also cook the sausage in a skillet instead of baking it, allowing the fats to render out into the pan for added flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Sausage and Rice Jamba:
This dish provides a delightful balance of hearty sausage, tender rice, and flavorful veggies. The subtle spiciness can be adjusted to your preferences, making it an adaptable recipe for all taste buds. Plus, it’s a one-pot meal that’s satisfying, comforting, and perfect for both casual family dinners and special gatherings. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to prepare, making it the perfect weeknight dinner.