Lee'S Jambalaya
A flavorful Cajun-inspired shrimp and rice dish featuring green peppers, tomatoes, and aromatic herbs, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute green pepper, onion, and garlic.
- Add all ingredients except shrimp and parsley. Simmer 60 to 75 minutes.
- If using Minute Rice, simmer for about 30 minutes or until rice is tender.
- Add parsley and shrimp, then simmer until shrimp is cooked through.
- Remove bay leaf before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a deeper flavor, consider adding smoked sausage or andouille to the mix. If you prefer a spicier kick, a few dashes of hot sauce can enhance the dish. If you're short on time, use instant rice but adjust the cooking time accordingly. Fresh herbs like thyme can be substituted with dried, though you'll want to reduce the amount used.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Lee's Jambalaya hot, garnished with fresh parsley. It pairs beautifully with a side of cornbread or a crisp green salad. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside Helen's Crackers for a delightful crunch. A chilled glass of white wine complements the dish nicely.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover jambalaya in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in a saucepan over medium heat, adding a splash of water if it seems dry, and stir until heated through. It can also be reheated in the microwave, covered, for about 2-3 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lee'S Jambalaya contains roughly 340 calories, with 19g protein, 54g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (214% of the Daily Value), iron (187% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (86% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1571mg per serving (68% 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 make this jambalaya ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the jambalaya a day in advance. Simply follow the recipe and refrigerate it after cooking. The flavors will meld beautifully overnight. Just reheat before serving, and add the shrimp and parsley at the end to keep them fresh.
What can I use instead of shrimp?
If you prefer a different protein, chicken or sausage can be substituted for shrimp. Adjust cooking times accordingly; chicken should be cooked through before adding the rice, while sausage can be added with the other ingredients.
Can I freeze leftover jambalaya?
Absolutely! Jambalaya freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and heat on the stove or microwave.
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).