Red Jambalaya
A flavorful and hearty Cajun-inspired rice dish with smoked sausage, vibrant vegetables, and spicy tomato paste, perfect for comforting family meals or gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large skillet, sauté the onion, bell pepper, and green onion in olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the sautéed vegetables and remaining ingredients to a 5-quart covered pot.
- Add water until it is 1/2 inch above the ingredients in the pot.
- Cover and cook until most of the water is absorbed, leaving the dish moist.
Tips & Substitutions
For added depth of flavor, consider using a mix of hot and mild smoked sausage. You can substitute long grain rice with brown rice, but adjust cooking time accordingly. If you prefer a touch of sweetness, add diced tomatoes or a splash of tomato sauce. Don't skimp on the fresh herbs; they brighten the dish. This recipe is reminiscent of Hopping Johns, so feel free to experiment with similar spices.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Red Jambalaya hot, garnished with additional chopped parsley and green onions. It pairs beautifully with a side of cornbread or a simple green salad. For a heartier meal, consider offering it alongside dishes like Fried Lumpia or Spanish Rice And Sausage Dinner. A refreshing drink, such as iced tea or lemonade, complements the spicy flavors well.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Red Jambalaya can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, add a splash of water before microwaving to prevent drying out. Alternatively, reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. This dish can also be frozen for up to 3 months; just thaw and reheat gently.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Red Jambalaya contains roughly 1109 calories, with 27g protein, 154g carbohydrates, and 45g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (57% of the Daily Value), protein (54% of the Daily Value), and iron (46% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% 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 recipe vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily adapt this recipe to be vegetarian by replacing the smoked sausage with a plant-based sausage or a combination of beans and additional vegetables. Ensure you adjust the seasoning to maintain the flavor profile. Using vegetable broth instead of water will also enhance the taste.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add more heat, consider using a spicier variety of hot sauce or adding diced jalapeños to the sautéed vegetables. You can also include crushed red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper in the mix. Adjust the amount according to your heat preference to ensure the dish remains balanced.
What can I use instead of tomato paste?
If you don't have tomato paste, you can substitute it with an equal amount of crushed tomatoes or tomato sauce. Keep in mind that using crushed tomatoes may add a bit more liquid to the dish, so adjust the water you add accordingly to achieve the desired consistency.
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).