Authentic Creole Jambalaya Recipe
Description
Dive into the rich flavors of the South with this Authentic Creole Jambalaya recipe, a culinary treasure that brings together succulent shrimp, savory tasso, and vibrant vegetables, all enveloped in aromatic spices and tender rice. This dish is perfect for gatherings or a comforting family meal and embodies the heart of Creole cuisine, making it a must-try for any food lover.
Ingredients
| Quantity | Ingredient |
|---|---|
| 1 1/2 cups | shrimp |
| 1 cup | tasso (or andouille sausage) |
| 2 tablespoons | butter |
| 1/2 cup | onion, diced |
| 1/4 cup | green bell pepper, diced |
| 2 cloves | garlic, minced |
| 1/2 cup | celery, diced |
| 2 cups | canned tomatoes, chopped |
| 1 cup | raw rice |
| 3 | bay leaves |
| 2 1/2 cups | water |
| 1 teaspoon | salt |
| 1/2 teaspoon | cayenne pepper |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 425 |
| Total Fat | 8.1 g |
| Saturated Fat | 4.2 g |
| Cholesterol | 346.6 mg |
| Sodium | 590.7 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 45.8 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 3.1 g |
| Sugars | 4.4 g |
| Protein | 40.1 g |
Cooking Time
| Time Type | Duration |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 15 minutes |
| Cook Time | 20 minutes |
| Total Time | 35 minutes |
Instructions
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Sauté the Vegetables: In a large skillet or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the diced onion, green bell pepper, celery, and minced garlic. Sauté these vegetables until they become soft and fragrant, approximately 5 to 7 minutes, allowing the natural sweetness to enhance the base of your jambalaya.
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Add the Proteins: Incorporate the shrimp and tasso into the skillet. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking. The shrimp should turn pink and the tasso should release its flavorful oils, infusing the dish with its distinctive taste.
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Incorporate the Tomatoes: Stir in the chopped canned tomatoes, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the mixture. Allow this to cook for about 10 minutes, letting the tomatoes break down slightly while their juices meld with the other ingredients.
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Combine Rice and Seasonings: Once the tomatoes have cooked down, add the raw rice to the skillet. Stir well to coat the rice with the mixture. Then, add the bay leaves, salt, and cayenne pepper, stirring to combine. Pour in the water, ensuring that the rice is fully submerged.
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Simmer: Increase the heat to bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and allow it to simmer. Cook for approximately 20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid. Be careful not to stir too much during this time to prevent the rice from becoming mushy.
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Finish and Serve: After the rice has cooked, remove the bay leaves and fluff the jambalaya gently with a fork. Adjust seasoning to taste, adding more salt or cayenne if desired. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if you like, and enjoy the robust flavors of this traditional Creole dish.
This Authentic Creole Jambalaya, with its bold flavors and vibrant ingredients, is sure to be a crowd-pleaser at any table. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or a festive gathering, each bite transports you to the heart of Louisiana cuisine.
