In a large pot, heat the oil and add the onion, celery, pepper, and garlic, and saute for 2- 3 minutes.
Then add the tomatoes, spices and salt, stock, and RiceSelect Royal Blend rice. If you enjoy additional heat, add the scotch bonnet pepper. Stir, reduce heat to low, and cover with the lid. Simmer for 15 minutes.
Add the shrimp, and continue simmering for 6-8 minutes, without the lid. Remove the bay leaf, adjust for salt as needed, and enjoy with chopped scallions!
Filled with big and bold flavors, this southern skillet classic is a comforting dish originating from a melting pot of cultures. Inspired by African and European dishes like Spanish Paella, this rice dish starts with a delicious sofrito-like base of garlic along with onion, bell pepper and celery, also known as the “holy trinity” of Cajun and Creole cooking.
Once the base is ready, the rice simmers together in one pot with loads of flavor from the homemade spice blend, stock, salt, diced tomatoes and hot peppers, if desired. And, what truly sets this dish apart is the use of RiceSelect® Royal Blend® Rice which is made with a combination of Texmati® White, Brown, Wild and Red Rices. The complementing grains add more whole grains to your meal as well as added flavor, texture and an appealing contrast of color.
While traditional jambalaya uses a blend of meat, this version uses only shrimp for a simple and tasty version of the classic. However, if you'd like to experiment with more meaty flavor, we suggest using chicken thighs or breasts, Andouille sausage, smoked or spicy chorizo and some even use rib meat. Get creative with the vegetables and meats you prefer best.
For a Louisiana-inspired feast, pair this shrimp jambalaya recipe with cornbread and another classic like this Creamy Red Beans and Rice made with Texmati® Brown Rice and caramelized onions on top. Prepare these for a fun Mardi Gras party at home any time of year.
For a lighter meal, serve with corn on the cob, collard greens or a green salad like this Couscous and Swiss Chard Tabbouleh. To learn more about cooking with couscous, take a look at the what is couscous? Section on our website.