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If you’re a fan of bold and spicy flavors, then jambalaya should definitely be on your must-try list. This classic Cajun dish hailing from the southern United States is a tantalizing blend of meats, vegetables, and rice, all simmered together in a rich and aromatic broth. While traditional jambalaya is typically cooked in a pot on the stovetop, we’ve got a fantastic twist for you: slow-cooker jambalaya soup! This easy-to-make recipe retains all the deliciousness of the original while providing you with a fuss-free cooking experience. In this blog post, we’ll guide you through creating this delightful jambalaya soup step-by-step, share some tips and variations to customize it to your taste, and offer serving suggestions to complement this hearty Cajun favorite. Get ready to fill your home with the warm and enticing scents of New Orleans as we dive into the world of slow-cooker jambalaya soup!
Jambalaya, a beloved Creole and Cajun dish, has deep roots in Louisiana, particularly in New Orleans. Its origins can be traced back to the diverse cultural influences of the region, including French, Spanish, African, and Native American cuisines. The word “jambalaya” itself likely comes from the Provencal word “jambalaia,” which means a mishmash or mix-up.
Jambalaya is traditionally prepared with rice, a variety of proteins like sausage, chicken, and shrimp, as well as an assortment of vegetables and spices. It’s a one-pot wonder that reflects the vibrant and eclectic culinary tapestry of Louisiana.
Slow-Cooker Jambalaya Soup takes the essence of classic jambalaya and adapts it for convenient slow-cooker cooking. This recipe allows you to savor the rich flavors of New Orleans with minimal effort. The slow-cooking process melds the ingredients together, creating a comforting, hearty soup with all the traditional jambalaya flavors.
Slow-Cooker Jambalaya Soup
Slow-cooker jambalaya soup is a spicy and soul-satisfying one-pot wonder that brings together succulent chunks of chicken, savory sausage, and plump shrimp in a harmonious dance of flavors. This Cajun-inspired dish features the holy trinity of onions, bell peppers, and celery, along with a medley of aromatic herbs and spices, such as thyme, oregano, and cayenne pepper. Slow-cooked to perfection, the ingredients meld together to create a rich and hearty soup that will warm your soul and transport you to the vibrant streets of New Orleans. Whether you're hosting a gathering or looking for a cozy meal on a chilly evening, slow-cooker jambalaya soup is the perfect choice for an unforgettable dining experience.
Tools and Equipment
- Slow cooker: Buy On Amazon
- Cutting board and knife: Buy On Amazon and Buy On Amazon
- Measuring cups and spoons: Buy On Amazon
- Wooden spoon or spatula: Buy On Amazon / Buy On Amazon
- Soup bowls for serving: Buy On Amazon
Ingredients
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prep the Ingredients:
Start by preparing all the ingredients. Cut the chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces, slice the smoked sausage, and peel and devein the shrimp. Finely chop the onion, dice the green and red bell peppers, and finely dice the celery. Mince the garlic cloves.
Sear the Chicken and Sausage:
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add a drizzle of oil.
Add the chicken pieces and smoked sausage to the skillet and sear them until lightly browned on all sides. This will enhance the flavors of the meat.
Assemble the Slow Cooker:
Transfer the seared chicken and sausage to the slow cooker.
Add the diced tomatoes (with their juice), chopped onion, diced bell peppers, diced celery, and minced garlic to the slow cooker.
Add the Rice and Seasonings:
Add the long-grain white rice to the slow cooker, spreading it evenly over the other ingredients.
Sprinkle the Cajun seasoning, dried thyme, dried oregano, and cayenne pepper over the rice and other ingredients.
Mix the Tomato Paste and Chicken Broth:
In a mixing bowl, whisk the tomato paste with the chicken broth until well combined.
Pour the tomato paste and chicken broth mixture over the ingredients in the slow cooker.
Cook on Low or High Heat:
Cover the slow cooker and cook the jambalaya soup on low heat for 4-6 hours or on high heat for 2-3 hours. Cooking times may vary depending on your slow cooker's settings.
Add the Shrimp:
Approximately 15-20 minutes before the cooking time is complete, add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the slow cooker.
Stir well to ensure the shrimp are evenly distributed in the soup.
Adjust Seasoning:
Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to your preference. The Cajun seasoning already adds a good amount of flavor, so additional salt may not be necessary.
Serve the Slow-Cooker Jambalaya Soup:
Once the cooking time is complete, the jambalaya soup should be rich and flavorful, with the rice cooked to perfection.
Ladle the hot soup into individual serving bowls.
Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color and an extra touch of flavor.
Servings 8
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 420.97kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 19.75g31%
- Saturated Fat 6.32g32%
- Trans Fat 0.01g
- Cholesterol 179.87mg60%
- Sodium 1395.54mg59%
- Potassium 704.23mg21%
- Total Carbohydrate 27.09g10%
- Dietary Fiber 1.72g7%
- Sugars 2.79g
- Protein 33.05g67%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs. Please note that the nutritional values provided are approximate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients and portion sizes used. It's always best to double-check with your specific ingredients and measurements for accurate nutritional information.
Note
Tips and Variations:
- Cajun seasoning: If you don't have store-bought Cajun seasoning, you can make your own by combining paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, black pepper, dried oregano, dried thyme, and salt.
- Additional veggies: Feel free to add more vegetables to the soup, such as okra, corn, or diced tomatoes with green chilies, to make it even heartier and more nutritious.
- Make it spicier: For those who love a fiery kick, increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add a dash of hot sauce when serving.
- Sausage options: While smoked sausage is traditional in jambalaya, you can use andouille sausage or any other flavorful sausage of your choice.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve the slow-cooker jambalaya soup in deep bowls with a side of crusty bread for sopping up all that delicious broth.
- Offer hot sauce on the side for those who enjoy an extra kick of spice.
Allergen Information:
Here's some allergen information to consider for Slow-Cooker Jambalaya Soup:
Shellfish Allergy: Traditional jambalaya often includes shrimp and sometimes crab or other shellfish. Ensure that your recipe doesn't contain shellfish or use alternatives if you have this allergy.
Gluten Sensitivity: Some sausage used in jambalaya recipes may contain gluten or wheat-based ingredients. Look for gluten-free sausage options or read labels carefully.
Wine or Drink Pairing:
Pairing beverages with Jambalaya Soup can enhance your dining experience. Here are some options:
Red Wine: A medium to full-bodied red wine, like a Zinfandel, Merlot, or Syrah, complements the rich and spicy flavors of the soup.
Beer: A cold lager or a hoppy IPA can provide a refreshing contrast to the heat of the soup.
Iced Tea: A classic Southern choice, iced tea, whether sweet or unsweetened, pairs well with the flavors of jambalaya.
Storage and Leftovers:
If you have leftover Slow-Cooker Jambalaya Soup, follow these guidelines:
Refrigeration: Store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing: If you want to save it for longer, you can freeze Jambalaya Soup in a freezer-safe container for up to 2-3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating: To reheat, use a stovetop or microwave. Heat gently to avoid overcooking, and you may need to add a little broth or water to adjust the consistency.
