Jambalaya Mix
A flavorful and versatile rice mix featuring tomato, herbs, and spices, perfect for quick dinners or as a side dish for Cajun or Creole-inspired meals.
Ingredients
- 1 cup uncooked long grain rice
- 1 (8 oz.) can tomato sauce ⓘ
- 1 tablespoon instant minced onion ⓘ
- 1 tablespoon instant green pepper flakes ⓘ
- 1 tablespoon dried parsley flakes
- 1 bay leaf ⓘ
- 2 teaspoons beef bouillon granules ⓘ
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder ⓘ
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper ⓘ
- 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/8 to 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper ⓘ
- 1 cup chopped ham or smoked sausage ⓘ
- 1 cup chopped cooked chicken ⓘ
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients in a bowl or container.
- Store in an airtight container.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using homemade chicken stock instead of water when cooking the rice. You can substitute the ham or smoked sausage with turkey or tofu for a lighter option. If you prefer more heat, increase the crushed red pepper or add a splash of hot sauce. This mix can also be enhanced with other spices like paprika or cayenne pepper to suit your taste.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Jambalaya mix with a side of crusty French bread or a fresh garden salad for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with Chicken Paprekash for a flavorful dinner. You can also top it with freshly chopped green onions or parsley for an added touch of freshness. For a heartier option, serve it alongside steamed vegetables.
Storage & Reheating
Store the Jambalaya mix in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. For leftovers, seal them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a little water or broth to prevent drying out, and warm in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Jambalaya Mix contains roughly 459 calories, with 14g protein, 106g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (180% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (115% of the Daily Value), and calcium (59% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 32g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 make this Jambalaya mix vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make this Jambalaya mix vegetarian by omitting the ham and chicken and replacing them with your favorite vegetables, such as bell peppers and zucchini. You can also add canned beans for protein. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure everything is tender and flavorful.
How do I cook the Jambalaya mix once prepared?
To cook the Jambalaya mix, combine 1 cup of the mix with 2 cups of water or broth in a pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer, cover, and cook for about 20-25 minutes until the rice is tender and liquid is absorbed. Let it sit covered for an additional 5 minutes before fluffing with a fork.
Can I freeze the Jambalaya mix?
Yes, you can freeze the Jambalaya mix for up to 3 months. Just ensure it is in an airtight container or freezer bag to prevent freezer burn. When ready to use, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and cook as directed. It’s a great meal prep option for busy weeknights!
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).