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Jailhouse Rice

Wholesome Jailhouse Rice: Your Budget-Friendly Comfort Meal

Enjoy a hearty, delicious Jailhouse Rice that combines zesty smoked sausage, colorful bell peppers, and a rich tomato base in a budget-friendly one-pot meal.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Resting Time 10 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Comfort Food
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

For the Base
  • 12 ounces Smoked sausage Substitute with chorizo for a spicier kick.
  • 1 cup Long-grain white rice Brown rice can replace it with adjusted cooking times.
  • 2 tablespoons Olive oil Can be swapped with canola or vegetable oil.
  • 2.5 cups Chicken broth Use vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.
For the Vegetables
  • 1 medium Onion Yellow or white onions work beautifully.
  • 1 each Green and red bell peppers Feel free to swap with any color of bell pepper.
  • 3 cloves Garlic Fresh garlic is best, but dried can substitute.
For the Saucy Goodness
  • 14.5 ounces Canned diced tomatoes Consider fire-roasted for extra smokiness.
  • 8 ounces Tomato sauce Homemade sauce can also be used.
For the Protein Boost
  • 1 can Kidney beans Drained.
  • 1 can Pinto beans Drained, introduces plant-based protein.
For the Spice Mix
  • 1 teaspoon Chili powder Adjust according to your spice preference.
  • 1 teaspoon Smoked paprika Don't skip this for flavor.
  • 1 pinch Cayenne pepper Add cautiously to suit your heat tolerance.
  • 1 teaspoon Dried oregano Fresh can also be used if available.
  • to taste Salt
  • to taste Black pepper
For Finishing Touches
  • 1 bunch Chopped green onions Can be omitted or replaced with parsley.
  • to taste Optional hot sauce For those who like it spicy.

Equipment

  • Large pot or Dutch oven

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add sliced smoked sausage and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove and set aside.
  2. In the same pot, add chopped onion and diced bell peppers. Sauté until soft, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and stir for another minute.
  3. Pour in diced tomatoes and tomato sauce, stirring to combine. Bring to a simmer for 2-3 minutes.
  4. Add drained kidney and pinto beans, stirring to combine. Let simmer together for a couple of minutes.
  5. Stir in uncooked rice and pour in chicken broth. Mix well. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer.
  6. Sprinkle in chili powder, smoked paprika, cayenne, and oregano. Season with salt and pepper. Return sausage to the pot and stir well.
  7. Cover and simmer on low heat for 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is tender. Check occasionally to avoid overcooking.
  8. Remove from heat and let sit, covered, for 5-10 minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork before serving.
  9. Scoop into bowls, garnishing with chopped green onions and hot sauce if desired. Serve warm.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowlCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 60gProtein: 20gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 40mgSodium: 900mgPotassium: 650mgFiber: 10gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 80mgCalcium: 60mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Experiment with different meats or vegetables based on your preferences. Taste and adjust seasoning before serving for the best flavor.

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