Cajun Creole Rice Medley
Immerse yourself in the vibrant flavors of the south with this Cajun Creole Rice Medley. This dish combines the essence of Cajun culinary traditions with a melody of fresh vegetables and aromatic spices, making it a delightful side or a standalone meal. With succulent tomatoes, a mix of colorful peppers, and a touch of butter for richness, this rice medley is perfect for family gatherings or a cozy dinner. Serve it alongside your favorite proteins or enjoy it as a hearty vegetarian option. Your taste buds are in for a flavorful adventure!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
9
Ingredients
Ingredients
Butter
2 tablespoons (Melted)
Cajun seasoning
3 tablespoons (None)
Diced tomatoes
1 (14 ounce) can (With juice)
Celery
3/4 cup (Diced)
Green onion
3/4 cup (Diced small)
Yellow onion
3/4 cup (Diced small)
Red bell pepper
3/4 cup (Diced small)
White rice
2 cups (Raw)
Water
3 1/2 cups (None)
Instructions
1
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
2
Add the diced celery, green onions, yellow onions, and red bell pepper to the skillet, sautéing for about 5-7 minutes or until the vegetables are soft and fragrant.
3
Stir in the Cajun seasoning, allowing it to coat the vegetables and release its flavors for about 1 minute.
4
Pour in the can of diced tomatoes, including the juice, and mix well.
5
Add the raw white rice and water to the skillet, stirring everything together thoroughly.
6
Once the mixture reaches a boil, reduce the heat to low and cover the skillet.
7
Let it simmer for 25 minutes, or until the rice absorbs the water and is tender. Fluff with a fork before serving.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Cajun Creole Rice Medley?
It is a flavorful Southern-inspired dish that combines rice with tomatoes, bell peppers, onions, celery, and aromatic Cajun spices.
What type of rice should I use for this recipe?
The recipe calls for 2 cups of raw white rice, which absorbs the flavors and provides the best texture.
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, but you will need to increase the water amount and the simmering time to approximately 45-50 minutes.
Is this Cajun Creole Rice Medley vegetarian?
Yes, as written, the recipe is vegetarian. It uses butter and vegetables without any meat products.
How can I make this recipe vegan?
To make it vegan, simply substitute the 2 tablespoons of butter with olive oil or a plant-based butter alternative.
Can I add protein like shrimp or chicken to this dish?
Absolutely. You can stir in cooked shrimp, blackened chicken, or sliced andouille sausage at the end of the cooking process.
Is this rice medley very spicy?
The spice level depends on the specific brand of Cajun seasoning you use. You can adjust the amount to suit your heat preference.
What is the 'holy trinity' in this recipe?
The 'holy trinity' of Cajun cooking consists of onions, celery, and bell peppers, all of which are featured in this medley.
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh diced tomatoes, but ensure you include some extra liquid or water to compensate for the juice found in the canned version.
How long does it take to cook the rice?
After reaching a boil, the rice should simmer on low heat for approximately 25 minutes until the water is absorbed.
How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftover rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 5 days.
Can I freeze Cajun Creole Rice Medley?
Yes, this dish freezes well. Place it in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months.
What should I serve with this rice medley?
It pairs perfectly with grilled fish, roasted chicken, BBQ ribs, or even as a filling for stuffed bell peppers.
Can I use oil instead of butter?
Yes, olive oil, vegetable oil, or avocado oil can be used to sauté the vegetables instead of butter.
How do I prevent the rice from becoming mushy?
Avoid over-stirring the rice while it simmers and ensure you use the exact ratio of 2 cups of rice to 3.5 cups of water.
Can I make this in a rice cooker?
Yes, sauté the vegetables first in a pan, then transfer them along with the rice, water, and tomatoes to your rice cooker and use the normal white rice setting.
Can I make this in an Instant Pot?
Yes, use the sauté function for the vegetables, then add the rice and liquid and cook on high pressure for 3 minutes with a natural release.
What if I don't have Cajun seasoning?
You can make your own by mixing paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, oregano, and thyme.
Can I add more vegetables like okra?
Yes, sliced okra or even corn kernels can be added during the sautéing stage for extra texture and nutrition.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
The primary ingredients are naturally gluten-free, but always check the label of your Cajun seasoning to ensure there are no wheat-based fillers.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
Based on the 2 cups of raw rice used, this recipe typically serves 6 to 8 people as a side dish.
Can I use chicken broth instead of water?
Yes, using chicken or vegetable broth instead of water will add an extra layer of savory flavor to the rice.
Why do I need to fluff the rice with a fork?
Fluffing helps separate the grains and prevents them from clumping together, resulting in a lighter texture.
Can I prepare the vegetables ahead of time?
Yes, you can dice the celery, onions, and peppers up to 24 hours in advance and keep them refrigerated.
What if the rice is still hard after 25 minutes?
Add 2-3 tablespoons of water, replace the lid, and cook on low for another 5 minutes.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
If your children are sensitive to spice, reduce the Cajun seasoning to 1 tablespoon and ensure the vegetables are diced very small.
Can I use dried herbs instead of Cajun seasoning?
You can, but it will lack the signature Creole heat; use a mix of thyme and oregano with a pinch of red pepper flakes.
How do I reheat this dish?
Reheat in the microwave with a splash of water or broth to keep the rice from drying out.
Can I use different colored bell peppers?
Yes, green, yellow, or orange bell peppers work just as well as red bell peppers in this medley.
Does this dish contain cholesterol?
The only source of cholesterol in this recipe is the butter; if you use oil, the dish will be cholesterol-free.