Making your own Cajun Rice at home is easy and incredibly flavorful! This spicy, savory dish is a fantastic addition to any meal, and once you try it, you’ll find yourself pairing it with everything – from grilled chicken to seafood. Plus, it’s great to have a versatile and tasty side dish ready in your kitchen whenever you need it.
I’ve highlighted the benefits of bold, nutrient-rich spices before, like in my post about Homemade Blackened Seasoning. These spices not only add depth and heat to your dishes but also come with various health benefits.
With just a few simple ingredients, you can cook Cajun Rice. If you’ve never made it before – it’s easier than you think! For just a few dollars your home-cooked meals will become deliciously spicy for your dinner or lunch.
Cajun Rice
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cup Long-grain white rice
- 1 Bay leaf
- 1/2 Diced, yellow onion
- 1 tsp Garlic powder
- 1/2 Seeded and diced, green bell pepper
- 1 1/4 tsp Kosher salt
- 3 1/4 cup Low-sodium chicken broth
- 1/3 cup Unsalted butter
- 1 tsp Ground paprika
- 1/2 Red bell pepper, seeded and diced
- 1/2 tsp Black pepper
- 1/2 tsp Ground thyme
Instructions
- Add the butter to a medium-sized saucepan over medium-high heat, ensuring it doesn't burn. Once melted, add the diced peppers and onion, stirring to coat.
- Sauté for 5-7 minutes until they soften.
- Pour in the chicken broth, salt, garlic powder, thyme, paprika, pepper, and bay leaf, and bring the mixture to a boil.
- Add the rice, stir, and cover with a lid. Lower the heat to maintain a simmer.
- Simmer for 20-25 minutes until the rice is cooked through and tender. Set aside, covered, for 10 minutes.
- After resting, fluff the rice with a fork, serve, and enjoy!
Nutrition Facts:
| Nutrition | Value |
|---|---|
| Calories | 288 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 40 g |
| Protein | 6 g |
| Vitamin A | 831 IU |
| Vitamin C | 21 mg |
| Iron | 1 mg |
| Sugar | 1 g |
| Calcium | 26 mg |
Is Cajun Rice Good For Health?
Cajun seasoning is beneficial due to its antioxidant-rich ingredients, such as beta-carotene in paprika, and the anti-inflammatory, immune-boosting properties of thyme and oregano.
Why Is It Named Cajun Food?
Cajun cuisine, developed by the Cajun-Acadians deported from Acadia to Louisiana in the 18th century, blends West African, French, and Spanish cooking techniques. This unique fusion reflects their culinary adaptation and cultural heritage.
How Are Dirty Rice Cajun Rice Different?
Dirty rice and Cajun rice are often used interchangeably in Louisiana and the South, reflecting their shared history with Acadian immigrants. Cajun rice typically includes Andouille sausage, bell pepper, celery, onions, and traditional Cajun spices.