Easy Mardi Gras Jambalaya

Step 1

Cook rice from jambalaya packet in a rice cooker, or by adding 4 cups of water to a large pot and bringing it to a boil. Once boiling, add the rice, reduce heat to a simmer, and cover the pot. Let simmer for about 20 – 25 minutes, until the rice has absorbed all of the liquid.

Step 2

Heat a large pot, such as a Dutch oven, to medium high heat. Once the pot is hot, add the butter, and when the butter is melted, add all of the vegetables and contents of the seasoning packet. For a less spicy version of this dish, start with about 1/3 of the seasoning packet, and add more seasoning at the end to your taste if you desire.Stir the vegetables until they are covered in the seasoning and cook over medium-high heat until they are soft, about 6 – 7 minutes.

Step 3

Once the vegetables are soft, stir in the stewed tomatoes, tomato juice and cooked rice. Add slices of the Andouille Sausage, or any other cooked protein you desire, as discussed in the notes above. Stir the mixture until thoroughly combined.

Step 4

Turn the heat down to low and let the mixture simmer for 25 minutes, until the meat is heated and entire mixture is warm. Stir occasionally to prevent scorching and encourage even heating.

Step 5

Remove from heat and enjoy!