Jambalaya is one of the most beloved and iconic dishes in New Orleans. Tender veggies and fragrant tomato rice with a hint of Creole spice surround a pile of succulent, juicy shrimp or prawns, cooked sausage, and tender chicken. This simple Jambalaya is brimming with huge punchy Louisiana flavors and is possibly the world's best one-pot dinner!
This dish is a delectable comfort food that is very easy to make and can be served all year round!
What Is In Jambalaya?
Jambalaya, a savory one-pot dish popular in Louisiana, is made with meat, seafood, veggies, stock, rice, and a variety of seasonings.
There are two types of jambalaya: Creole and Cajun. Originating in the Greater New Orleans Area, Creole Jambalaya is known for its tomato-heavy sauce, whereas Cajun Jambalaya takes a more rustic, country approach by leaving out the tomatoes and cooking it more simply.
This recipe is for Creole-style Jambalaya, which I ate a lot of on my visit to New Orleans!
Interested in reading more about this dish? Read this article: What is Jambalaya and Where Did it Come From?
Jambalaya Ingredients:
Okay, let's talk about the ingredients. You'll need the following ingredients to make the best jambalaya.
- Protein: I used shrimp, chicken, and Andouille sausage. You can use whichever protein you like. Feel free to use one or two, or all three, as I do.
- The Cajun/Creole “holy trinity”: Onion, celery, and green bell pepper (you can also use red and yellow bell peppers for some added color).
- Crushed tomatoes: For flavor depth.
- Rice: You can use either long-grain or short-grain white rice; the former is more traditional.
- Chicken stock: To cook the rice, use low-sodium homemade or store-bought chicken stock.
- Oil: You can use any good, high quality vegetable oil.
- Spices and seasonings: This jambalaya is flavored with creole/Cajun seasoning, fresh garlic, crabby seasoning, bay leaf, and thyme.
Don't hesitate to add any garnish you like! I like to add sliced green onions, a little chopped fresh parsley, and lemon wedges.
How To Make Jambalaya?
You’ll find the step-by-step guidelines below on the recipe card.
What To Serve With Jambalaya?
This dish is already quite filling, so I suggest pairing it with a light and refreshing dish, such as:
- My favored Salad recipes.
- Freshly sliced cucumbers or seasonal fruits.
