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Cajun Cabbage Jambalaya (Spicy Cajun Cabbage and Rice Skillet)
Introduction
Cajun Cabbage Jambalaya is a hearty, one-skillet dish bursting with spicy, smoky flavors. Inspired by traditional Louisiana jambalaya, this version replaces the usual heavy rice focus with a generous helping of tender cabbage, making it lighter but still satisfying. It’s an easy, budget-friendly meal that brings Southern soul food comfort to your table in under an hour.
Origin and Cultural Significance
Jambalaya is a quintessential dish from Louisiana with roots in Spanish, French, and West African cuisines. Traditionally made with rice, meat, and aromatic vegetables, it’s a reflection of cultural blending and adaptation. This cabbage-based twist honors the spirit of Cajun cooking—resourceful, flavorful, and deeply communal—while introducing a healthy spin. Cabbage, often associated with Southern “peasant” cooking, plays a starring role here as a hearty and affordable base.
Ingredients (Quantity)
- 1 lb ground beef or pork sausage
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small head of green cabbage, chopped (about 6–7 cups)
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 ½ cups cooked white or brown rice
- 1 tsp Cajun seasoning (or more to taste)
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- ¼ tsp thyme
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil (if using lean meat)
Optional Additions
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (for extra heat)
- 1 cup sliced andouille sausage or kielbasa
- A splash of hot sauce
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- ½ cup chicken or vegetable broth (for a saucier dish)
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Tips for Success
- Use a mix of ground meat and sausage for deeper flavor.
- Don’t overcook the cabbage; it should be tender but not mushy.
- Cook rice separately to prevent sogginess.
- Taste and adjust the spice level—Cajun seasoning blends vary in heat.
- Let the dish rest for 5 minutes off heat to meld flavors.
Instructions
- Brown the Meat: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef or sausage until browned. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Sauté Aromatics: Add onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Sauté for 5 minutes until softened.
- Add Cabbage: Stir in chopped cabbage and cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring often, until it begins to wilt.
- Incorporate Tomatoes & Seasonings: Add diced tomatoes, Cajun seasoning, paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Simmer: Cover and cook for 10–15 minutes, until cabbage is tender. Stir occasionally and add broth if needed for moisture.
- Add Rice: Stir in cooked rice and heat through for 2–3 minutes.
- Taste and Serve: Adjust seasoning as needed. Garnish with parsley or a splash of hot sauce if desired.
Description
Cajun Cabbage Jambalaya is a savory skillet packed with bold seasoning, juicy tomatoes, sweet sautéed onions, and the gentle bite of cabbage. The rice soaks up all the spicy juices, creating a balanced bite in every forkful. It’s smoky, zesty, and deeply comforting—a dish that tastes like a Southern hug.
Nutritional Information (Estimates per serving, serves 6)
- Calories: ~320
- Protein: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fat: 18g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 5g
- Sodium: 600mg (varies with seasoning and sausage)
Conclusion
Cajun Cabbage Jambalaya transforms humble ingredients into a vibrant, satisfying meal perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings. Its blend of spice, texture, and Southern charm make it a go-to comfort food with a healthier profile.
Recommendation
Pair this dish with a side of cornbread or a crisp green salad for a complete Southern-style supper. Leftovers taste even better the next day, making it great for meal prep. Consider doubling the batch!
Embracing Healthful Indulgence
Though bold and hearty, this skillet meal embraces health-conscious choices—substituting excess rice with cabbage, using lean proteins, and relying on spices instead of heavy sauces for flavor. It proves that indulgence doesn’t have to sacrifice nutrition, offering both warmth and wellness in one delicious dish.
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