Jambalaya Foil Packets

Jambalaya Foil Packets are a convenient and flavorful way to enjoy the classic Louisiana dish with minimal cleanup. These packets combine smoked sausage, shrimp, and a medley of vegetables with cajun seasoning, cooked to perfection either on the grill or in the oven. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or an easy camping meal.

Ingredients:

• 14 oz package kielbasa smoked sausage, sliced into 1/2-inch thick coins
• ½ lb shrimp (31-40 count), peeled and deveined, tails off (thawed if frozen)
• ¼ cup olive oil
• 15 oz can petite diced tomatoes with garlic and oregano, drained
• 1 medium sweet onion, chopped
• 1 medium red bell pepper, chopped
• 2 ribs celery, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 ½ teaspoons cajun seasoning
• 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh parsley
• Kosher salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 cup Instant rice (Minute® rice)
• 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth

Directions:

1. Preheat Grill or Oven
   • Preheat grill or oven to 400°F.
2. Prepare Foil Packets
   • Cut 5 large sheets of heavy-duty foil (about 12 inches wide by 17 inches long). Coat foil generously with nonstick cooking spray.
3. Mix Ingredients
   • In a large bowl, toss together all the ingredients.
4. Divide and Pack
   • Divide the mixture evenly into 5 equal portions and add to the center of each sheet of foil, about 1 1/2 cups per packet.
5. Seal Packets
   • To seal the foil packet, bring the short sides together in the middle and gently fold down over the ingredients, leaving a little space for steam. Then roll up the ends to seal closed.
6. Cook
   • Place the packets in the oven (on a sheet pan) or on the grill for 25-30 minutes, until the shrimp is pink, rice is cooked through, and veggies are tender. If grilling, flip packets halfway through cook time.
7. Serve
   • Carefully open the foil packs, expecting hot steam to be released. Let cool slightly and enjoy.

Cooking Time: 25 min | Total Time: 40 min | Servings: 5

Serving and Storage Tips:

Serving Suggestions

• Serve the Jambalaya Foil Packets directly in the foil for a rustic presentation, allowing diners to open their packets themselves.
• Garnish with additional chopped parsley for a fresh burst of color and flavor.
• Provide hot sauce on the side for those who prefer an extra kick of spice.

Storage Tips

• Refrigeration: If you have leftovers, allow the foil packets to cool completely, then transfer them to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze leftover cooked foil packets. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil to prevent freezer burn, and store for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheating: To reheat, place the foil packets in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, unwrap the foil and transfer the contents to a microwave-safe dish, heating in the microwave in short intervals until hot.

Additional Tips

• For a quick lunch or dinner later in the week, consider making extra foil packets during your initial preparation.
• Customize each packet by adjusting the spice level or adding additional vegetables like okra or corn.

By following these serving and storage tips, you can enjoy the convenience and delicious flavors of Jambalaya Foil Packets even after your initial meal preparation.

Variations:

1. Vegetarian Option: Replace the smoked sausage and shrimp with tofu cubes or extra vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, and bell peppers. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a fully vegetarian version.
2. Chicken Jambalaya: Substitute diced chicken breast or thigh meat for the shrimp. Ensure chicken is fully cooked through before serving.
3. Spicy Creole Twist: Amp up the heat by adding diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the mix. Serve with a side of hot sauce for those who crave extra spice.
4. Seafood Extravaganza: Mix in a variety of seafood such as scallops, crab meat, or chunks of white fish alongside the shrimp for a luxurious seafood medley.
5. Cajun Sausage Blend: Experiment with different types of sausage such as andouille or chorizo to add unique flavors and textures to your foil packets.
6. Rice Alternatives: Substitute the Instant rice with quinoa or couscous for a different texture and taste profile. Adjust cooking times and liquid amounts accordingly.
7. Herb Infusion: Enhance the herbaceous flavors by adding fresh thyme, bay leaves, or a sprinkle of dried oregano to the mixture before sealing the foil packets.
8. Asian Fusion: Create an Asian-inspired twist by using soy sauce, ginger, and sesame oil instead of cajun seasoning. Add vegetables like bok choy, snap peas, and water chestnuts for a delightful fusion dish.
9. Mediterranean Delight: Replace cajun seasoning with a blend of Mediterranean spices like paprika, oregano, and garlic powder. Add olives, artichoke hearts, and sun-dried tomatoes for a Mediterranean flair.
10. Tex-Mex Fiesta: Incorporate flavors from south of the border by using taco seasoning instead of cajun seasoning. Add black beans, corn kernels, and diced tomatoes with green chilies for a Tex-Mex twist.

By exploring these variations, you can personalize your Jambalaya Foil Packets to suit different tastes and dietary preferences, ensuring a delightful meal each time you prepare them.

FAQs :

1. Can I make these foil packets ahead of time?
   • Yes, you can assemble the foil packets ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until ready to cook. Just make sure to cook them within a day or two for the best results.
2. Can I use regular rice instead of Instant rice?
   • Instant rice (Minute® rice) is recommended for this recipe as it cooks quickly and evenly within the foil packets. If you use regular rice, you may need to adjust the cooking time and add more liquid.
3. How do I prevent the foil packets from leaking?
   • Ensure you fold and seal the foil packets tightly to prevent any leakage. Double-check the seams before placing them in the oven or on the grill.
4. Can I use frozen shrimp?
   • Yes, you can use frozen shrimp, but make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before adding to the foil packets. This ensures even cooking.
5. What can I substitute for cajun seasoning?
   • If you don’t have cajun seasoning, you can make your own using a blend of paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, thyme, and oregano. Adjust the spice levels to your preference.
6. Can I cook these foil packets on a campfire?
   • Yes, these foil packets can be cooked over hot coals on a campfire. Adjust the cooking time depending on the intensity of the heat.
7. How do I know when the foil packets are done cooking?
   • The shrimp should be pink and opaque, the rice should be tender, and the vegetables should be cooked through. Check one packet first to gauge doneness.
8. Can I reheat leftover foil packets?
   • Yes, you can reheat leftover foil packets in the oven or microwave until heated through. Ensure they are stored properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
9. What side dishes pair well with Jambalaya Foil Packets?
   • Serve these packets with a side of cornbread, a green salad, or steamed vegetables to complete the meal.
10. Can I customize the ingredients in these foil packets?
    • Absolutely! Feel free to adjust the types of sausage, seafood, or vegetables used to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs.

These FAQs should help clarify common queries and ensure you have a successful cooking experience with Jambalaya Foil Packets.

In conclusion, Jambalaya Foil Packets offer a delicious and convenient way to enjoy a taste of Louisiana with minimal cleanup, whether you’re cooking at home, on the grill, or over a campfire. With endless customization options and straightforward preparation, they’re perfect for both weeknight dinners and outdoor adventures. Try these flavorful packets and enjoy a satisfying meal packed with Cajun-inspired goodness.