### **Cajun Cabbage Jambalaya**
Indulge in the delightful fusion of Cajun spices, smoked sausage, rice, and cabbage with this hearty dish. This one-pot jambalaya is not only flavorful and satisfying but also perfect for serving a crowd or enjoying as leftovers.
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#### **Ingredients:**
– 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
– 1 pound smoked sausage (andouille or kielbasa), sliced
– 1 pound chicken (optional), diced
– 1 large onion, diced
– 1 green bell pepper, diced
– 2 celery stalks, diced
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 small head of cabbage, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup long-grain white rice (uncooked)
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust for spice level)
– 1 bay leaf
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– Green onions or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
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#### **Directions:**
1. **Brown the Meat:**
– In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the oil or butter over medium heat.
– Add the sliced sausage and cook until browned. Remove and set aside.
– If using chicken, cook it in the same pot until browned, then remove and set aside.
2. **Sauté the Veggies:**
– Add the onion, bell pepper, and celery to the same pot. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
– Stir in the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. **Add Cabbage and Seasonings:**
– Incorporate the chopped cabbage and cook until it begins to wilt, about 5 minutes.
– Add the diced tomatoes, chicken broth, uncooked rice, paprika, smoked paprika, thyme, oregano, cayenne, bay leaf, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine.
4. **Simmer:**
– Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low.
– Cover and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the liquid is absorbed.
5. **Finish and Serve:**
– Stir in the cooked sausage and chicken (if using). Heat through until warmed.
– Remove the bay leaf and garnish with chopped green onions or parsley.
– Serve hot and enjoy!
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This dish is versatile; feel free to add shrimp or other proteins to suit your taste. Experience the bold flavors of Cajun cuisine while benefiting from the nutrition of cabbage. Let me know if you’d like more tips!