Description
This flavorful Cajun Rice recipe combines aromatic vegetables, fragrant spices, and tender long-grain rice simmered to perfection in a savory broth. A versatile side dish or base for Cajun-style meals, it delivers a comforting and mildly spicy experience with every bite.
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 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
Main Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups long-grain white rice
- 3 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
Spices
- 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
Garnish
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
- 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 and fragrant.
- Add the Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant, taking care not to burn the garlic.
- Add the Rice and Spices: Add the rice to the pan, stirring well to coat the grains with oil and vegetables. Sprinkle in the Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, thyme, cayenne pepper if using, salt, and pepper. Stir thoroughly to combine all the flavors.
- Add the Broth and Simmer: Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and add the bay leaf. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pan and let it simmer gently for 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is fully absorbed.
- Fluff and Serve: Remove the pan from heat and let the rice sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Then fluff the rice with a fork to separate the grains and discard the bay leaf. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
- Serve: Serve the Cajun rice as a delicious side dish alongside grilled chicken, shrimp, or your favorite Cajun-style protein. Alternatively, use it as a base for a filling one-pot meal.
Notes
- For added protein, consider mixing in cooked andouille sausage or shrimp.
- Cayenne pepper is optional; omit for a milder version.
- Vegetarian and vegan eaters can substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth.
- Letting the rice rest covered after cooking helps it finish steaming and results in fluffier grains.
- Adjust seasoning at the end to taste, especially salt and pepper.
