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Flavorful Jailhouse Rice

Flavorful Jailhouse Rice: Hearty, Easy Comfort in One Pot

Flavorful Jailhouse Rice is a budget-friendly, one-pot meal featuring savory sausage, bell peppers, and zesty tomato sauce, perfect for weeknights.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Resting Time 10 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Base
  • 14 ounces Smoked sausage Add spicy sausage like chorizo or andouille for a kick.
  • 1 cup Long-grain white rice Brown rice can be used but requires a longer cooking time.
  • 2 cups Chicken broth Vegetable broth can be used for a vegetarian option.
For the Vegetables
  • 1 Onion Yellow or white onions work interchangeably.
  • 1 Green bell pepper Any sweet pepper variety can substitute.
  • 1 Red bell pepper Enhances sweetness and adds color.
  • 3 cloves Garlic Fresh is preferred; garlic powder can substitute.
For the Tomato Mix
  • 14.5 ounces Diced tomatoes Can be canned or fresh.
  • 8 ounces Tomato sauce Opt for low-sodium versions if desired.
For the Beans
  • 1 can Kidney beans Can substitute with black beans or chickpeas.
  • 1 can Pinto beans Can swap with any legume.
For Seasoning
  • 1 tablespoon Chili powder Adjust to taste.
  • 1 teaspoon Smoked paprika Can be omitted but will lack depth.
  • 1 pinch Cayenne pepper Optional for extra heat.
  • 1 teaspoon Dried oregano Can replace with Italian seasoning.
  • to taste Black pepper Adjust based on sausage and broth saltiness.
  • to taste Salt Adjust as necessary.
Optional Additions
  • to taste Hot sauce For extra heat.
  • to taste Chopped green onions For garnish.

Equipment

  • large pot

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions
  1. In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced smoked sausage and sauté for 5-7 minutes until golden brown.
  2. Add 1 chopped onion, 1 diced green bell pepper, and 1 diced red bell pepper. Sauté for another 5-7 minutes until soft.
  3. Stir in 3 minced garlic cloves and sauté for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant.
  4. Add one 14.5-ounce can of diced tomatoes and one 8-ounce can of tomato sauce to the pot. Stir well and let cook for 2-3 minutes.
  5. Add 1 can each of rinsed kidney and pinto beans to the mixture and stir gently.
  6. Pour in 1 cup of long-grain white rice and stir well to combine. Cook for 1-2 minutes.
  7. Carefully pour in 2 cups of chicken broth and mix thoroughly. Bring to a gentle boil.
  8. Sprinkle in 1 tablespoon of chili powder, 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika, a pinch of cayenne pepper, and 1 teaspoon of dried oregano. Adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper.
  9. Fold the previously sautéed sausage back into the pot, ensuring even distribution.
  10. Bring to a boil again, cover, and reduce heat to low. Simmer for 20-25 minutes until rice absorbs liquid and is tender.
  11. After 25 minutes, check the rice for doneness. Cook for additional minutes if firm or if there is liquid remaining.
  12. Remove the pot from heat and let it sit covered for another 5-10 minutes.
  13. Using a fork, gently fluff the rice to separate the grains before serving.
  14. Sprinkle chopped green onions on top and add hot sauce if desired before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 15gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 40mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 550mgFiber: 7gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 80mgCalcium: 40mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Feel free to mix and match ingredients for a personalized touch in this versatile dish.

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