Authentic Jambalaya Soup

Ingredients:

1 lbs chicken breast or tenders, cut into bite sized chunks

12oz andouille sausage, sliced

1lb shrimp, peeled and deveined

2 celery stalks, chopped

3 bell peppers (multiple colors), diced

1 onion, diced

1 jalapeño, seeded and chopped

5-6 garlic cloves, chopped

2.5 Tbsp Creole seasoning (see note 2)

1 tsp red chili flakes

2 bay leaves

2 Tbsp flour

6 cups chicken stock

2 15oz tomato cans, crushed or diced

1 cup uncooked rice

3 Tbsp oil

Instructions

Stove Top Method

Heat oil in a large pot on medium high heat. Add meats and brown for 5-6 minutes. Plate them out.

In the same pan, add more oil if necessary and sauté onions, celery and bell peppers till the onion is soft. Add in garlic and jalapeño and sauté for 5 minutes.

Stir back in the meats along with flour and spices and mix well.

Add in tomatoes and broth and let it simmer for 15 minutes.

Add in rice and cook for 15-20 minutes till rice is cooked.

Add shrimp and continue cooking until they are done, about 5 minutes.

Slow Cooker Method

Heat oil in a large pot on medium high heat. Add meats and brown for 5-6 minutes. Plate them out.

In the same pan, add more oil if necessary and sauté onions, celery and bell peppers till the onion is soft. Add in garlic and jalapeño and sauté for 5 minutes.

Stir back in the meats along with flour and spices and mix well.

Put the contents of the pot into the slow cooker. Use a little of the broth to deglaze the sauté pot and add that into the slow cooker along with all other ingredients, except the shrimp.

Cover and cook on low for 5-6 hours or high for 2-3 hours.

Add in the shrimp and cook until they are pink and cooked.

Instant Pot Method

With the Instant Pot on Saute, mode, heat the oil, then brown the meats about 5 minutes. Plate them out.

Sauté the onion, celery and bell peppers till onion is soft. Then add in garlic and jalapeño and stir for a few minutes.

Stir in the flour and seasonings, add the meat back in along with rice, stock and tomatoes. Seal the lid and cook on High Pressure for 10 minutes. Allow pressure to release naturally before opening the lid.

Put instant pot back on Saute mode, add in the shrimp and simmer till they are cooked.

Nutrition Information:

YIELDS: 8 | SERVING SIZE: 1

Amount Per Serving

Frequently Asked Questions:

What is Creole seasoning, and can I make it at home?

Creole seasoning is a blend of spices like paprika, garlic, onion, thyme, and oregano.

You can make it at home by combining these spices in the right proportions.

Can I use other types of rice in the recipe?

While the recipe calls for uncooked rice, you can experiment with different types like brown rice or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.

Is there a substitute for andouille sausage?

If andouille sausage is unavailable, smoked sausage or chorizo can be used as substitutes to maintain the smoky flavor.

How do I adjust the spice level in Jambalaya Soup?

You can control the spice by reducing the amount of red chili flakes, jalapeño, or Creole seasoning, depending on your heat preference.

Can I make Jambalaya Soup in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the soup in advance and reheat it.

The flavors often meld and enhance when reheated.

What vegetables can I add or substitute in the recipe?

Feel free to customize with vegetables like okra, tomatoes, or bell peppers.

Adjust quantities based on personal preferences.

How long does it take to cook the rice in the soup?

The rice typically takes 15-20 minutes to cook once added to the simmering soup.

Can I use pre-cooked shrimp in the recipe?

Yes, you can use pre-cooked shrimp, but add them towards the end of the cooking process to prevent overcooking.

Is it necessary to use chicken tenders, or can I use other cuts?

You can use other cuts of chicken, adjusting cooking times accordingly.

Ensure the chicken is cooked through before adding other ingredients.

What can I serve with Jambalaya Soup for a complete meal?

Serve Jambalaya Soup with crusty bread, rice, or a side of greens for a satisfying and well-balanced meal.