Ham Jambalaya
Ham Jambalaya offers a hearty blend of ham, rice, and vegetables with a hint of spice, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings seeking bold flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a heavy pan, brown the sliced ham lightly in butter.
- Add chopped onion, green pepper, and minced garlic; cook for 5 minutes.
- Stir in canned tomatoes, Tabasco, water, and rice.
- Cover tightly and simmer for 30 minutes or until rice is done.
- Lift with a fork occasionally; do not stir during cooking.
- Serve garnished with chopped parsley, if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using smoked ham. If you want a bit of heat, add more Tabasco or some chopped jalapeños. You can substitute the rice with quinoa for a healthier option. If you don't have meat stock, water will work, but try to enhance the flavor with additional seasonings like thyme or bay leaves.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the jambalaya hot, garnished with chopped parsley for a fresh touch. It pairs beautifully with Cornbread (Zella Ives' Recipe) or a simple green salad for a complete meal. For added flavor, consider serving with a dollop of sour cream or a squeeze of lemon juice.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of water to the pan and heat over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. You can also microwave it, but cover the dish to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ham Jambalaya contains roughly 367 calories, with 19g protein, 34g carbohydrates, and 22g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (131% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (89% of the Daily Value), and potassium (61% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 761mg per serving (33% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different kind of meat in this jambalaya?
Absolutely! You can substitute the ham with chicken, sausage, or shrimp depending on your preference. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as different meats may require varying times to cook through.
How do I keep the rice from getting mushy?
To prevent mushy rice, use the correct rice-to-liquid ratio and avoid stirring while it cooks. Once the rice is added, cover the pot tightly and let it simmer undisturbed to achieve a fluffy texture.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the jambalaya a day in advance. Just cook it fully, let it cool, and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat gently before serving to maintain the flavors and texture.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).