American Jambalaya: A Taste of American Culture and Cuisine

When one thinks of American cuisine, immediately visions of hamburgers, sandwiches, and fried chicken come to mind. While all of these may be quintessential American dishes, those who are familiar with Cajun and Creole cooking know that American cuisine has so much more to offer. One of the most delicious dishes to emerge from this style of cooking is the unique and flavorful American Jambalaya.

American Jambalaya is a dish that can be traced back as far as the sixteenth century to Europe, however, Jambalaya truly became a part of American culture when it was brought to the country by the Spanish and French during colonization. A traditional American Jambalaya is typically made with long grain white rice, celery, onions, peppers, and some type of smoked meat it may also include tomatoes and garlic. It is simmered in a spicy broth and all the ingredients come together to create a hearty and delicious one-pot meal.

Jambalaya made in Louisiana, where the dish originated, is often referred to as “dirty rice” as it has a somewhat brownish color from the ingredients combined after being cooked. This dish is also sometimes referred to as “red jambalaya” as it contains tomatoes for an added splash of color. No matter which type of jambalaya you choose to make, one thing is certain, the dish will surely please your guests and become a regular on your dinner table.

American Jambalaya Recipe

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, diced
• 1 red pepper, diced
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon oregano
• 1 teaspoon thyme
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 2 cups long grain white rice
• 1/2 pound smoked sausage, diced
• 3 cups chicken broth
• 1/2 can diced tomatoes
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. When the oil is hot, add the onion and red pepper and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the paprika, oregano, thyme, garlic powder, and onion powder, stirring to combine.
4. Add the rice and cook for 3 minutes.
5. Add the sausage and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
6. Pour in the chicken broth and diced tomatoes and bring to a boil.
7. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and simmer covered for 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the liquid absorbed.
8. Remove from heat and season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Serve hot. Enjoy!