Quick and Flavorful Instant Pot Shrimp Jambalaya Recipe



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Instant Pot Shrimp Jambalaya: A Quick and Delectable Delight

Jambalaya is a classic dish that hails from Louisiana and is celebrated for its rich, robust flavours and comforting ingredients. Traditionally, this one-pot wonder showcases rice, succulent meats, and a medley of spices. However, with the advent of the Instant Pot, making this delightful dish has never been easier or quicker. In this article, we’ll explore how to whip up a mouth-watering Instant Pot Shrimp Jambalaya that embodies the essence of Southern cuisine, while fitting perfectly into a modern lifestyle.

Ingredients

To create a flavour-packed Instant Pot Shrimp Jambalaya, you’ll need the following:

  • 300g uncooked shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 200g long grain rice (preferably white)
  • 400ml chicken broth
  • 1 bell pepper (red or green), diced
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 200g can of diced tomatoes
  • 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
  • Optional: sliced spring onions or a dash of hot sauce for serving

Instructions

  1. Sauté the Base Ingredients: Start by setting your Instant Pot to the ‘Sauté’ function. Add the olive oil and allow it to heat up slightly. Once hot, toss in the diced onions, bell pepper, and minced garlic. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the vegetables soften and the onions turn translucent.

  2. Add Spices and Tomatoes: Next, stir in the Cajun seasoning, dried oregano, and smoked paprika. Allow the spices to bloom for about a minute before adding the canned diced tomatoes, along with their juices. Stir well to combine.

  3. Incorporate the Rice and Broth: Add the uncooked rice to the pot, followed by the chicken broth. Stir thoroughly, ensuring all the ingredients are well mixed. This step is crucial, as it helps the rice absorb the flavours.

  4. Cook Under Pressure: Secure the lid on your Instant Pot, ensuring the valve is set to sealing. Select the ‘Manual’ or ‘Pressure Cook’ function and set the timer for 8 minutes. Once the cooking time is complete, allow the pressure to release naturally for about 5 minutes before carefully switching the valve to release any remaining pressure.

  5. Add the Shrimp: Open the lid and gently fluff the rice with a fork. Fold in the shrimp, ensuring they are evenly distributed. Replace the lid and allow them to cook in the residual heat for about 5 minutes, or until the shrimp are pink and cooked through.

  6. Serve and Garnish: Taste the jambalaya and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley. For an extra kick, consider adding sliced spring onions or a dash of hot sauce on the side.

Cooking Tips

  • Ingredient Adjustments: While shrimp is a popular choice for jambalaya, feel free to experiment with other proteins such as chicken or sausage, or even a vegetarian variety with mushrooms and beans for a twist.

  • Rice Variations: Long grain rice is traditional, but you can also try brown rice or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. Just remember that the cooking times may vary.

  • Spice Level: Adjust the heat to your liking by increasing or decreasing the amount of Cajun seasoning or adding fresh chilli if you prefer a spicier dish.

Conclusion

Instant Pot Shrimp Jambalaya is a celebration of flavours and a true crowd-pleaser. By utilising the Instant Pot, you not only save time but get to enjoy a meal that rivals any traditional recipe with impeccable ease. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering, this dish is a delightful nod to the vibrant food culture of Louisiana. So, gather your ingredients and simmer up a pot of instant magic!


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