Jambalaya

It’s no secret that I have a bit of a love affair with Cajun/Creole cooking. I mean what’s not to love? The depths of seasoning, the seafood, different vegetable combinations and various meats used in this cuisine open up a whole world of possibilities. The only thing is—— What took me so long to post this recipe??

Now this particular Jambalaya is a marriage of the “King of  Bam” ( Emeril Lagasse) and mine with most of the credit going to Chef Emeril.

Here’s how we do this one.

Shopping List:

• 3 tablespoons Canola Oil
• 6 cups Vegetable stock or Water
• 1 28 ounce can Diced Tomatoes
• 3 cups Uncle Ben’s™ 5 Minute Rice
• 1 bag 31 – 40 Shrimp – peeled, cleaned and tail off
• 1 pound Andouille sausage – sliced on the diagonal and bite sized
• 2 cups chopped Red Onion
• 1 cup chopped Celery
• 1 cup chopped Bell Pepper
• 3 chopped Garlic cloves
• 1 cup chopped Green Onions for garnish
• 3 Bay Leaves
• 3 tablespoons Smoked Paprika
• 3 tablespoons Chipotle powder
• 1 1/2 tablespoons dried Thyme
• 1 1/2 teaspoons dried Oregano
• 2 tablespoons Seasoned Salt
• Ground Black Pepper to taste

Putting it all together:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°
2. In a large dutch oven heat the oil and brown the sausage in batches removing to a holding bowl.
3. In the same pot add the onion, celery, peppers and seasonings mixing well. Cook for about 3 minutes
4. Add the tomatoes, stock and sausage. Bring to a boil, turn off the heat, cover and put in the oven for about 35 minutes.
5. Add the rice and shrimp and turn off the heat for another 5 minutes.
6. Plate and garnish with the green onions if desired.
7. Enjoy.

There you have it another “simple but tasty recipe for the grilling season and beyond.”

Until next time……….

                           Bon Appetit