New orleans jambalaya recipe

Jambalaya, the quintessential dish of New Orleans! Here's a classic recipe that's sure to satisfy your cravings:

New Orleans-Style Jambalaya Recipe

Servings: 6-8

Ingredients:

• 1 lb Andouille sausage, sliced
• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 medium onions, chopped
• 3 stalks celery, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 large bell pepper, chopped
• 2 cups uncooked long-grain rice
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• Scallions, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Brown the sausage: Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large cast-iron pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the sliced Andouille sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove the sausage from the pot and set aside.
2. Cook the chicken: Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil to the pot. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside with the sausage.
3. Soften the vegetables: Reduce heat to medium. Add the chopped onions, celery, and bell pepper to the pot. Cook until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the garlic and spices: Add the minced garlic, thyme, paprika, and cayenne pepper to the pot. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
5. Add the rice and chicken broth: Add the uncooked rice to the pot and stir to combine with the vegetables and spices. Add the chicken broth, diced tomatoes, and browned sausage and chicken. Bring the mixture to a boil.
6. Simmer and cook the rice: Reduce heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for 25-30 minutes or until the rice is cooked and the liquid has been absorbed.
7. Season and serve: Fluff the jambalaya with a fork and season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped scallions, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!

Tips and Variations:

• Use a combination of sausage and ham for added flavor.
• Add some heat with diced jalapeños or hot sauce.
• Substitute chicken breast or thighs with shrimp or crawfish for a seafood twist.
• Serve with crusty French bread or crackers for a satisfying meal.
• Experiment with different spices, such as cumin or oregano, to give the dish a unique flavor.

Lagniappe (a little something extra):

• Jambalaya is a one-pot wonder, but you can also make it in a slow cooker. Brown the sausage and chicken, then transfer everything to the slow cooker and cook on low for 2-3 hours.
• For a more authentic New Orleans experience, serve jambalaya at a family gathering or party, and don't forget to have plenty of cold beer on hand!

Enjoy your delicious New Orleans-style jambalaya!