Cajun-style jambalaya
Cajun-style jambalaya is a hearty, one-pot rice dish from Louisiana that blends Spanish and French culinary influences. It typically features a flavorful base of the 'holy trinity' (onion, celery, and bell pepper) cooked with smoked sausage, chicken, and/or shrimp, all simmered together with rice and a robust blend of Cajun spices. Unlike its Creole cousin, the Cajun version traditionally does not include tomatoes, resulting in a darker, more savory flavor profile.
🍽️ Nutrition at a glance
Jambalaya is a well-balanced, high-energy meal, providing a substantial amount of protein from the meat and seafood, along with carbohydrates from the rice. A typical serving is rich in B vitamins, iron, and selenium, and generally contains between 500 and 700 calories, depending on the specific ingredients and portion size.
Nutrition breakdown
| Calories | 350 kcal |
| Protein | 22 g |
| Carbs | 35 g |
| Fat | 12 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Sugar | 4 g |
| Sodium | 850 mg |
| Iron | 3.5 mg |
| Vitamin B6 | 0.5 mg |
| Niacin (B3) | 6 mg |
| Zinc | 4 mg |
| Selenium | 25 mcg |
| Potassium | 400 mg |
| Phosphorus | 250 mg |
| Thiamin (B1) | 0.3 mg |
Per 1 cup (240 g) · estimated, varies by recipe
💡 What's interesting
Culturally, jambalaya is a perfect example of the culinary fusion that defines Louisiana cuisine, blending Spanish paella, French bouillabaisse, and West African cooking techniques. Nutritionally, the combination of protein and complex carbohydrates makes it a very satiating meal, providing sustained energy.
