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Cajun Rice

Cajun Rice That Bursts with Flavor and Southern Charm

Cajun Rice is a vibrant and flavorful dish that combines spices and vegetables, perfect as a side or main meal.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Resting Time 10 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Southern
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

For the Base
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter For a lighter option, substitute with olive oil.
  • 2 cups long-grain white rice Jasmine or basmati rice can work too.
  • 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth Use vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.
For the Vegetables
  • 1 medium red bell pepper Yellow or orange peppers can bring a different taste.
  • 1 medium green bell pepper Omit for a milder flavor if desired.
  • 1 medium yellow onion Shallots can be used for a milder alternative.
For the Seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt Adjust to taste or swap with seasoned salt for extra flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder Feel free to replace with fresh minced garlic.
  • 0.5 teaspoon ground thyme Can substitute with Italian seasoning.
  • 1 teaspoon ground paprika Consider using cayenne for heat.
  • 0.5 teaspoon black pepper Freshly ground offers the best flavor.
  • 1 leaf bay leaf Remove before serving.

Equipment

  • medium saucepan

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions
  1. Melt the butter by starting with 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a medium saucepan over medium-high heat until bubbly.
  2. Sauté 1 diced red bell pepper, 1 diced green bell pepper, and 1 diced yellow onion in the melted butter for about 5-7 minutes until softened.
  3. Add 3 cups of low-sodium chicken broth, 1 teaspoon of kosher salt, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 0.5 teaspoon of ground thyme, 1 teaspoon of ground paprika, 0.5 teaspoon of black pepper, and 1 bay leaf to the vegetable mix.
  4. Carefully stir in 2 cups of long-grain white rice and reduce heat to low after bringing to a boil.
  5. Let the rice simmer for 20-25 minutes without lifting the lid too often until all liquid is absorbed.
  6. Remove from heat and let it rest covered for an additional 10 minutes.
  7. Fluff the Cajun Rice with a fork and serve.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 5gFat: 7gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 15mgSodium: 400mgPotassium: 200mgFiber: 2gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 50mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days in the fridge. Reheat with a splash of broth.

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