Description
This Savory Shrimp and Sausage Jambalaya is a flavorful and hearty one-pot meal perfect for a cozy night in. Combining tender shrimp, smoky sausage, and perfectly cooked rice with vegetables and Cajun spices, this dish delivers a taste of classic Louisiana comfort food in just 30 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
- 8 oz smoked sausage (sliced)
- 1 cup long-grain rice (not quick-cooking)
- 2 cups chicken broth (can substitute with vegetable broth)
- 14.5 oz canned diced tomatoes
- 1 cup okra (sliced)
Vegetables & Aromatics
- 1 medium onion (diced)
- 1 cup bell peppers (mixed colors, diced)
- 1 cup celery (chopped)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 tbsp green onions (chopped, for garnish)
Seasonings
- 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- to taste hot sauce (for extra heat)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- Olive oil (for sautéing)
Instructions
- Prepare the Vegetables: Heat a large pot over medium heat and add a splash of olive oil. Sauté 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 the Sausage: Stir in the sliced smoked sausage and cook for about 3-4 minutes until browned, allowing its flavors to infuse the vegetables.
- Add Seasoning and Tomatoes: Sprinkle the Cajun seasoning over the mixture and stir in the canned diced tomatoes. Let it simmer for 2 minutes to meld the flavors.
- Combine Broth and Rice: Gradually pour in the chicken broth followed by the long-grain rice, stirring well. Bring the pot to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for 15 minutes until the rice is tender.
- Add Shrimp and Okra: Gently fold in the peeled shrimp and sliced okra. Cook for another 5 minutes until the shrimp turns pink and opaque, indicating it is fully cooked.
- Season to Taste: Taste the jambalaya and adjust salt, pepper, or add more Cajun seasoning or hot sauce for extra heat if desired.
- Rest and Garnish: Remove from heat and let the jambalaya rest for a few minutes. Top with chopped green onions before serving to add freshness and color.
Notes
- Use peeled and deveined shrimp for easier cooking and eating.
- Smoked sausage adds a rich, smoky flavor; andouille sausage is an excellent option if available.
- If you prefer a spicier dish, increase the amount of Cajun seasoning or add hot sauce as desired.
- Do not lift the lid frequently during rice cooking to avoid losing steam and affecting rice texture.
- Okra is optional but adds a traditional southern flavor and helps thicken the dish slightly.
