Jambalaya Soup

Jambalaya Soup is a hearty and flavorful dish that captures the essence of classic Cajun cuisine in a comforting bowl. This easy-to-make soup combines the savory taste of turkey kielbasa and tender turkey with a medley of colorful vegetables and spices, making it perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends.

With its rich tomato base and aromatic seasonings, this soup brings warmth and deliciousness to your table. Enjoy a taste of New Orleans with every spoonful!

Jambalaya Soup

Ingredients

2 TBSPs unsalted butter

14 oz Jennie-O Turkey Kielbasa sliced

1/2 yellow onion diced small

2 cloves of garlic minced

2 celery ribs diced

1 red pepper diced

1 green pepper diced

2 TBSPs flour

2 TBSPs Cajun seasoning

salt and pepper to taste

28 oz can diced tomatoes undrained

2 TBSPs tomato paste

6 cups chicken stock

2 bay leaves

1 cup instant rice

2 cups Bone In Oven Ready Jennie-O Turkey cooked

Instructions

In a large dutch oven, melt butter over medium heat. Add the sliced kielbasa and cook until browned. Add in the onion and garlic and cook for 1 minute.

Add in the celery, red pepper, and green pepper. Stir and sauté until the vegetables are tender, about 5 to 7 minutes.

Stir in the flour, Cajun seasoning, and season with salt and pepper. Stir to coat the vegetables. Stir in the diced tomatoes and the tomato paste.

Slowly add the chicken stock. Throw in the bay leaves. Bring to a boil and simmer for 10 minutes.

Stir in the rice and cooked turkey. Simmer until the rice is tender, about five minutes. Remove bay leaves and serve.

Notes:

Kielbasa Variations: You can substitute turkey kielbasa with regular kielbasa or any smoked sausage you prefer for a richer flavor.

Vegetable Options: Feel free to add or swap in other vegetables like zucchini, corn, or peas based on your preferences or what you have on hand.

Spice Level: Adjust the Cajun seasoning to your taste. For more heat, consider adding cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños.

Chicken Stock: Use low-sodium chicken stock to control the saltiness of the soup, especially if you’re adding other salty ingredients.

Rice Cooking: Instant rice cooks quickly, but if you prefer regular rice, adjust the cooking time accordingly, adding it earlier in the process.

Storing Leftovers: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The soup can thicken as it sits, so you may need to add a little extra stock or water when reheating.

Freezing: Jambalaya Soup can be frozen for up to 3 months. Consider freezing without the rice, as it can become mushy when thawed. Add fresh rice when reheating.

Serving Suggestions: This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.

Garnishes: Top with fresh parsley, green onions, or a squeeze of lemon for added brightness.

Meal Prep: This soup is great for meal prep—make a big batch and portion it out for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.

Nutrition Information:

Per Serving: .1.5 cups

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use a different type of sausage in this recipe?

Absolutely! While the recipe calls for Jennie-O Turkey Kielbasa, you can use other types of sausage, such as Andouille or smoked sausage, to add different flavors to your Jambalaya Soup.

Is the Cajun seasoning too spicy for kids?

Cajun seasoning can have some heat, so you might want to adjust the quantity to taste.

You can start with a smaller amount and add more later if desired.

If cooking for children, you can also choose a mild Cajun seasoning or reduce the amount to make it milder.

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, this soup is great for meal prep.

You can make it ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Reheat it on the stove or in the microwave when ready to serve.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned diced tomatoes?

Certainly! You can substitute fresh diced tomatoes for canned ones.

Use about 2-3 medium-sized tomatoes, peeled and diced, as a replacement.

Is there a substitute for instant rice?

Yes, you can use regular rice, but keep in mind that it will take longer to cook.

Adjust the cooking time according to the type of rice you choose.

Brown rice or long-grain white rice are good alternatives.

Can I use a different type of rice in this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute instant rice with regular rice, but keep in mind that regular rice will take longer to cook.

Adjust the cooking time according to the type of rice you choose.

Is it necessary to use Cajun seasoning, or can I make my own spice blend?

Feel free to make your own spice blend if you don’t have Cajun seasoning.

A mix of paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, oregano, and cayenne pepper can create a flavorful alternative.

Can I use pre-cooked turkey from leftovers instead of Oven Ready Jennie-O Turkey?

Absolutely! Leftover turkey works well in this recipe.

Simply shred or dice the pre-cooked turkey and add it during the last few minutes of simmering to heat through.

How do I adjust the spice level in this soup?

The spice level can be adjusted by varying the amount of Cajun seasoning and Thai chili.

Start with a smaller amount, taste, and add more if desired.

You can also omit or reduce the amount of Thai chili for a milder flavor.

Can I freeze Jambalaya Soup for later?

Yes, you can freeze this soup. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.

It can be stored in the freezer for up to three months.

Thaw and reheat on the stove when ready to enjoy.