Jambalaya with Sausage and Shrimp

This recipe from the godfather of modern Cajun cooking, Chef Paul Prudhomme, is absolutely marvelous; it is also fairly spicy. To tone down the heat cut the amount white, black and cayenne pepper in equal amounts.  Each of the peppers affects different sensors in the mouth so keeping the proportions equal keeps the overall flavor in balance.

Traditionalist say there is no substitute for cast iron skillets for this style of high heat cooking. The rationale being that the pan scrapings that accumulate on a cast iron skillet add to the flavor of the dish. Been there; done that. Do yourself a favor. Sacrifice the scrapings and use a stick free pan or wok.

Combine the seasonings in a small bowl and set aside. In a large skillet or wok melt the margarine over high heat. Add the sausage; cook for five minutes, stirring occasionally. Drain most, but not all, of the excess oil, add the holy trinity (onion, celery and green pepper), tomatoes, seasoning mix and garlic. Stir well and continue cooking for 10 minutes, stirring frequently so as not to scorch, scraping the bottom of the pan well. Add the rice and cook five more minutes, stirring and scraping the bottom of the pan frequently.

Add the stock, stirring well. Bring mixture to a boil; reduce heat and simmer until liquid is absorbed, about twenty minutes, stirring occasionally near the end of the cooking time. While simmering prepare the shrimp. When the liquid has been absorbed add the shrimp, remove bay leaves, cover and let stand for about 10 minutes (this will allow the shrimp time to poach). When served with a salad and fresh, crunchy bread this is a meal in itself.

Note:  My experience with this dish is that it can easily turn to mush if a good quality, long grain rice is not used. Over the years I have gradually switched to Basmati rice for all my dishes that call for rice.  Unless you buy Basmati in an Indian or International grocer you'll find it pretty pricey.  As for regular long grain rice I'm not generally in the habit of making specific brand name recommendations, but if you are unsure Carolina rice is very good and nationally available.

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