Low-Carb Cajun Jambalaya Recipe

Introduction

Cajun cuisine is known for its bold flavors and hearty ingredients, and jambalaya is no exception. This classic Louisiana dish combines rice, meat, and vegetables in a rich and spicy one-pot meal. However, if you’re watching your carb intake, traditional jambalaya can be off-limits. But fear not, because we have a low-carb version of this delicious dish that will satisfy your cravings without sabotaging your diet. Let’s dive into the world of low-carb Cajun jambalaya!

Ingredients

For the Cajun seasoning:

2 tablespoons paprika
1 tablespoon garlic powder
1 tablespoon onion powder
1 tablespoon dried oregano
1 tablespoon dried thyme
1 tablespoon salt
1 tablespoon black pepper
1 tablespoon cayenne pepper (adjust according to your spice preference)

For the jambalaya:

1 pound chicken breast, diced
1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 pound Andouille sausage, sliced
1 green bell pepper, diced
1 red bell pepper, diced
1 yellow onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
3 celery stalks, diced
1 can (14 ounces) diced tomatoes
2 cups cauliflower rice
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cups chicken broth
2 bay leaves
2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon hot sauce (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Steps

1. In a small bowl, combine all the Cajun seasoning ingredients and set aside.

2. Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and sausage, and cook until browned. Remove from the pot and set aside.

3. In the same pot, add the bell peppers, onion, garlic, and celery. Sauté until the vegetables are tender.

4. Add the diced tomatoes, chicken broth, bay leaves, Worcestershire sauce, and hot sauce (if using) to the pot. Stir in 2 tablespoons of the Cajun seasoning.

5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

6. Stir in the cauliflower rice and let the jambalaya cook for another 10 minutes, or until the cauliflower rice is tender.

7. Add the cooked chicken, sausage, and shrimp to the pot, and simmer for an additional 5 minutes, or until the shrimp is pink and cooked through.

8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

9. Remove the bay leaves before serving.

10. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.

Variations

While this low-carb Cajun jambalaya recipe is delicious as is, feel free to get creative and make it your own. Here are a few variations you can try:

– Swap the chicken breast for turkey or duck for a different poultry twist.

– Use a different type of sausage, such as chorizo or smoked sausage, to add a unique flavor profile.

– Add more vegetables like okra or diced zucchini to amp up the nutritional value.

– If you’re not a fan of shrimp, you can use diced fish like cod or catfish instead.

– For a vegetarian version, skip the meat and seafood altogether and add extra vegetables or tofu for protein.

Tips

Here are a few tips to make your low-carb Cajun jambalaya a success:

– Adjust the spice level to your liking by increasing or decreasing the amount of cayenne pepper and hot sauce.

– If you prefer a milder flavor, you can reduce the amount of Cajun seasoning used.

– Make sure to use cauliflower rice to keep this dish low in carbs. You can find cauliflower rice in the frozen section of most grocery stores, or you can make your own by pulsing cauliflower florets in a food processor.

– Feel free to add more or less chicken broth depending on how soupy you like your jambalaya.

– Don’t forget to remove the bay leaves before serving. They are added for flavor but are not meant to be eaten.

Conclusion

This low-carb Cajun jambalaya recipe is a flavorful and satisfying option for those looking to enjoy a taste of Louisiana while watching their carb intake. With its combination of protein, vegetables, and spices, it’s a well-rounded and delicious meal that can be enjoyed by anyone, regardless of their dietary restrictions. So get your pots and pans ready, and let the flavors of the Cajun cuisine take you on a culinary journey!

FAQs

1. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this low-carb Cajun jambalaya ahead of time. Simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.

2. Can I freeze the leftovers?

Absolutely! This jambalaya recipe freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers or bags. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

3. Can I use regular rice instead of cauliflower rice?

If you’re not following a low-carb diet, you can certainly use regular rice in this recipe. Simply cook the rice separately according to the package instructions and serve the jambalaya on top of it.

4. How spicy is this jambalaya?

The spiciness of this jambalaya can be adjusted to your preference. The Cajun seasoning and hot sauce add a kick, but you can reduce the amount of cayenne pepper and omit the hot sauce if you prefer a milder flavor.

5. Can I use other types of seafood?

Absolutely! While shrimp is traditional in jambalaya, you can also use other types of seafood like crab, crawfish, or mussels. Feel free to experiment and use your favorite seafood.