Shrimp And Ham Jambalaya
A hearty and flavorful Cajun-inspired dish combining smoky bacon, tender shrimp, savory ham, and fragrant spices. This one-pot jambalaya is perfect for seafood lovers and those craving a comforting, spicy meal with bold flavors and satisfying textures.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Fry the bacon in a large pan until crispy; remove and set aside.
- In the same pan, sauté the chopped onion and green pepper in the bacon grease until tender.
- Add the uncooked rice to the pan and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently.
- Pour in the chicken broth, then add garlic salt, thyme, and the bay leaf.
- Cover the pan and cook on low for about 15 minutes.
- Add the cooked shrimp and cubed ham to the pan.
- Cover and cook for an additional 20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the flavors meld.
Tips & Substitutions
For enhanced flavor, consider adding diced tomatoes or replacing some of the chicken broth with a splash of white wine. If you prefer a spicier kick, toss in some Cajun seasoning or diced jalapeños. You can substitute the bacon with turkey bacon or omit it for a lighter version. Ensure the rice is thoroughly coated in the pan for even cooking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the jambalaya hot, garnished with chopped green onions or parsley for a fresh touch. It pairs beautifully with Carrots Lyonnaise or a simple green salad for a well-rounded meal. For a heartier option, consider serving it alongside crusty French bread or cornbread to soak up the flavorful broth.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of chicken broth or water to prevent the rice from drying out, then warm in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. This dish also freezes well for up to 2 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Shrimp And Ham Jambalaya contains roughly 272 calories, with 12g protein, 37g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (138% of the Daily Value), iron (70% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (39% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and potassium. It also contributes 11g 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 dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! To make a vegetarian version, simply omit the ham and bacon and replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth. You can add more vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or even some beans for protein. This will still yield a delicious and hearty jambalaya.
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).