Description
Cajun Rice is a flavorful, hearty dish that packs a punch with a blend of spices, vegetables, and rice. A popular side dish in Southern cuisine, this rice is cooked with a rich mix of onions, bell peppers, and celery, along with classic Cajun seasonings. It’s perfect as an accompaniment to any protein or as a standalone dish. The deep, smoky, and spicy flavors will have everyone coming back for more!
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 1 bell pepper, finely chopped (green or red)
- 1 celery stalk, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 ½ cups long-grain white rice
- 3 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
- 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon ground thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for added spice)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
-
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
In a large saucepan or skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and celery. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are softened.Step 2: Add the Garlic
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.Step 3: Add the Rice and Spices
Add the rice to the pan, stirring to coat the rice in the oil and vegetable mixture.
Sprinkle in the Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, thyme, cayenne (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.Step 4: Add the Broth and Simmer
Pour in the chicken broth and add the bay leaf. Bring the mixture to a boil.
Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let it simmer for 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.Step 5: Fluff and Serve
Remove the pan from the heat. Let the rice sit, covered, for 5 minutes.
Fluff the rice with a fork to separate the grains, then remove the bay leaf.
Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired.Step 6: Serve
Serve the Cajun rice as a side dish with grilled chicken, shrimp, or your favorite Cajun-style protein. It can also be served as a base for a hearty one-pot meal.
Notes
- Storage: Store leftover rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper and Cajun seasoning to suit your spice tolerance.
- Add-ins: You can add diced tomatoes, sausage, or cooked shrimp to the rice for a more substantial meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Southern, Cajun
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (based on 4 servings)
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0g