Delicious Jambalaya Recipe Your Family Will Love
Greetings, fellow food enthusiasts! Today, I am excited to share with you my recipe for Southern Comfort Jambalaya – a dish that is packed with robust and savory flavors that you’re sure to love. This southern comfort food is famous for its unique blend of spices and ingredients that showcase the best of Creole and Cajun cuisine.
Jambalaya has been a staple dish in Southern cooking for generations, and it has remained a favorite comfort food among families and friends alike. Now, there are many jambalaya recipes out there, but this one has a special twist to it – the addition of Southern Comfort whiskey. This infusion of liquor gives the dish an extra layer of flavor and complexity that will have you coming back for more.
But don’t worry if you’re not a whiskey fan – this recipe uses only a small amount of Southern Comfort, so there’s no risk of overpowering the other flavors in the dish. It’s just enough to add a hint of sweetness and warmth that brings all the ingredients together in perfect harmony.
So let’s get ready to take a journey down south with this delicious jambalaya recipe. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or looking for something hearty and comforting to make on a chilly night, this recipe is sure to hit the spot. Just be prepared for some serious flavor explosions in every bite!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Are you in need of some comfort? Look no further than this Southern Comfort Jambalaya Recipe. This recipe boasts a combination of flavors that will warm you to the core and transport you straight to the heart of New Orleans.
Firstly, let’s talk about the protein. With juicy, succulent shrimp, boneless chicken, and sliced smoked sausage, every bite is filled with savory goodness. The seasoning mix of oregano, thyme, black pepper, and salt adds depth and richness to the dish.
But it’s not just the protein that makes this recipe special. The addition of colorful bell peppers, celery, and red onions give it a pop of color and nutrition. And don’t forget about the garlic cloves and Worcestershire sauce – they bring a tangy zing that complements the dish perfectly.
But what sets this recipe apart from others is one key ingredient – Southern Comfort. With its sweet and smooth flavor profile, this bourbon-based liqueur perfectly balances out the spiciness of the jambalaya.
Not only is this Southern Comfort Jambalaya Recipe delicious, but it’s also versatile. It can be enjoyed as a main dish on its own, or paired with a side salad or crusty bread for a more complete meal. Plus, it’s great for leftovers – store in the fridge or freezer for an easy meal later on.
In short, this Southern Comfort Jambalaya Recipe is the perfect comfort food for any occasion. Its unique combination of flavors will have you coming back for seconds (and maybe even thirds!). Give your taste buds a treat with this tasty dish and experience a little bit of Louisiana right in your own home.
Ingredient List
Get ready to spice things up with this delicious Jambalaya recipe that is perfect for any occasion. Here’s what you’ll need to make it:
- 1 lb. smoked sausage, sliced
- 4 cups canola oil (or substitute with peanut oil)
- 1 lb. boneless chicken, diced into chunks
- 1 cup chopped green bell pepper
- 1 cup chopped red onions
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 3 celery stalks, thinly sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, cored and sliced into thin strips
- 1 red bell pepper, cored and sliced into thin strips
- 2 cans no-salt-added whole tomatoes (28 oz.)
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 tablespoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 4 teaspoons salt
- 1 pound shrimp, deveined and peeled
- 6 cups chicken bouillon
- 3 cups converted rice (or substitute with long-grain white rice)
The Recipe How-To
Now that you have all of the ingredients, it’s time to cook up some Southern Comfort Jambalaya! This dish is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends. Here are the steps to follow:
Step 1: Prep the Ingredients
Before you start cooking, make sure all your ingredients are prepped and ready to go. Chop 1 cup of celery, 1 chopped red onion, 3 garlic cloves minced, 1 chopped yellow bell pepper, 1 chopped red bell pepper, and 1 chopped green bell pepper. Slice 1 lb of smoked sausage and chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Place your instant pot on sauté mode and pour in 4 tablespoons of peanut oil. Once it’s hot, add the vegetables (celery, onion, garlic, bell peppers) and sauté for 5 minutes or until they’re softened.
Step 3: Brown the Meat
Add the sliced smoked sausage and chicken thighs to the pot and cook until browned.
Step 4: Add Rice and Spices
Next, add 2 cups of converted rice, 2 cups of chicken broth, 1 can of whole tomatoes (crushed), and all the spices (1 teaspoon black pepper, 1 teaspoon salt, 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce, 2 teaspoons oregano, and 3 teaspoons thyme) into the pot.
Stir well to combine all ingredients evenly.
Step 5: Cook Until Done
Close the lid of your instant pot and set to high pressure for 10 minutes. Make sure to set the venting valve to sealing position. After letting it cook under high pressure, allow natural release for about 10 minutes before opening to avoid burns from hot contents.
Your Southern Comfort Jambalaya is now ready to be served! This dish is perfect on its own or served with a side of warm bread or salad. Enjoy the flavors of New Orleans with this easy-to-make jambalaya recipe.
Substitutions and Variations
Now, suppose you’re looking to put a unique spin on your Southern Comfort Jambalaya. In that case, there are plenty of substitutions and variations you can try. Perhaps the most obvious change you can make is opting for different types of protein. If shrimp isn’t your thing, you can swap it out for chicken or even beef chunks.
If you’re feeling particularly adventurous, why not try swapping out the meat entirely and making a vegan version? Simply replace the chicken bouillon with a vegetable alternative, and instead of using sliced sausage, add in some more veggies like eggplant or zucchini.
You can also play around with the spices to adjust the overall flavor profile. For instance, if you’re looking for a more creole-inspired dish, add more cayenne pepper and hot sauce to kick up the heat. On the other hand, if you’re trying to keep things mild, ease up on the black pepper and substitute smoked paprika for traditional paprika.
Finally, consider experimenting with different types of rice. While converted rice is traditional in jambalaya recipes since it absorbs flavors better than other kinds of rice, you can try using long-grain white rice or even brown rice for a healthier version.
In general, don’t be afraid to get creative and try new things when it comes to jambalaya recipes. With so many delicious ingredients at your disposal – from bell peppers to Andouille sausage – there’s always an opportunity for a unique twist on this classic Southern comfort dish.
Serving and Pairing
When it comes to serving this southern comfort jambalaya, I suggest making sure you have a big pot to hold this feast of flavors. Serve it up in a big bowl or plate and don’t be afraid to add some garnish with chopped scallions or fresh parsley to make the dish pop.
Pairing wise, we’re talking about bold and spicy flavors here so a cold beer, especially a lager, is always a good choice. If you’re more wine-inclined, try pairing the dish with a full-bodied red wine such as a Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot.
To elevate the dish even further, serve it alongside some classic southern-style sides like cornbread or biscuits, collard greens or braised okra. The combination of the jambalaya with these sides creates a symphony of comfort food flavors that will leave your taste buds singing.
And if you’re looking for a healthy alternative, serve it up with some roasted vegetables like zucchini or eggplant, and drizzle them with olive oil and a pinch of salt for an added layer of flavor. The possibilities are endless for this southern comfort jambalaya recipe, so feel free to experiment and create your perfect pairing.
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
When it comes to jambalaya, it’s no secret that leftovers are a popular option for an easy and filling meal. Luckily, this Southern Comfort Jambalaya recipe is perfect for making ahead of time and reheating for later.
To make ahead, simply follow the recipe instructions up until the point of simmering with the shrimp. Allow the jambalaya to cool completely before transferring into an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. Store in the refrigerator for up to three days or in the freezer for up to three months.
When it’s time to reheat, transfer the jambalaya into a pot over medium heat until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual servings on high for one to two minutes.
One thing to keep in mind is that when reheating, the shrimp may become overcooked and tough if reheated for too long. To avoid this issue, remove the shrimp from the jambalaya before reheating and add them back in just before serving.
With its delicious blend of flavors and hearty ingredients like chicken and sausage, this Southern Comfort Jambalaya recipe is sure to become a new family favorite. And, with its easy make-ahead and reheating options, you can enjoy this comfort food classic any day of the week!
Tips for Perfect Results
Alright, folks, now that we’ve gone through the ingredient list and step-by-step instructions for making the perfect Southern Comfort Jambalaya Recipe, it’s time to talk about some tips for getting perfect results every time. Trust me, these tips will take your jambalaya game to the next level.
1. Sauté vegetables separately: To get a deep flavor from the veggies in this jambalaya recipe, sauté each one separately. This technique allows you to cook each type of vegetable to its optimal level of doneness without overcooking or undercooking any one of them.
2. Use converted rice: This recipe calls for converted rice or “parboiled” rice because it stands up better during cooking and won’t become mushy like long-grain white rice would. Using the right type of rice will keep your jambalaya from turning into a soupy mess.
3. Brown meat thoroughly: When you’re browning meat like boneless chicken and smoked sausage, be patient and give them enough time to brown well. This step is essential for developing deeper flavors in your jambalaya.
4. Add shrimp towards the end: Shrimp cooks quickly, so it’s best to add them towards the end of cooking the jambalaya to prevent them from overcooking and becoming rubbery. Cook until just pink and opaque.
5. Let it rest: After you turn off the heat, let the jambalaya rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows all the flavors to meld together properly, resulting in a satisfying dish with complex flavor profiles.
By using these tips and tricks, your Southern Comfort Jambalaya Recipe will be bursting with flavors like never before. So, go ahead and give it a try!
Bottom Line
In conclusion, if you’re looking for a hearty and flavorful comfort food, look no further than this southern comfort jambalaya recipe. It combines the best of Louisiana’s Creole and Cajun flavors in one delicious pot. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, lazy weekends, or special occasions with friends and family.
Not only is this dish delicious and satisfying, but it’s also versatile and can be customized to your liking. Whether you prefer chicken or shrimp, or want to add more vegetables or spices, this recipe can accommodate your tastes. Plus, with the option to use an Instant Pot or traditional stovetop method, you can make this jambalaya in the way that works best for you.
And let’s not forget about the health benefits of this dish. By using lean protein sources like boneless chicken and shrimp, substituting canola or safflower oil for less healthy options like peanut oil, and adding plenty of vegetables like peppers and onions, this jambalaya can be a tasty way to fuel your body with nutritious ingredients.
So why not give this southern comfort jambalaya recipe a try? With its bold flavor profile, easy preparation, and countless variations, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. And who knows – you might just feel like you’re transported to the vibrant streets of New Orleans with every bite.
Southern Comfort Jambalaya Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 lb smoked sausage, sliced
- 1/4 cup safflower oil or 1/4 cup canola oil
- 3/4 lb boneless chicken
- 1 cup chopped green bell pepper
- 1 cup chopped red bell pepper
- 1 cup chopped yellow bell pepper
- 1 1/2 cups chopped scallions
- 1 1/2 cups chopped red onions
- 1 cup chopped celery
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 (14 1/2 ounce) can no-salt-added whole tomatoes, with liquid
- 1 1/2 teaspoons thyme
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- 3/4 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon hot pepper sauce
- 1 3/4 cups converted rice or 1 3/4 cups long-grain white rice
- 1 (15 3/4 ounce) fat-free low-sodium chicken broth or 2 cups low-sodium chicken bouillon
- 3/4 cup Southern Comfort
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 3/4 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
Instructions
- In large pot, sauté sausage in oil until lightly browned.
- Remove sausage from pot and sauté chicken until cooked.
- Remove chicken and sauté bell peppers through garlic until tender.
- Add tomatoes (with liquid) through hot pepper sauce and cook 5 minutes.
- Stir in rice.
- Add chicken stock through worcestershire sauce; bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and add sausage,chicken and shrimp.
- Cook uncovered, stirring occasionally, 30-45 min until rice is done and shrimp is cooked. (If additional liquid is needed before rice is done, add a 50/50 mixture of water and Southern Comfort).
Add Your Own Notes
Nutrition
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