Looking for a quick and delicious meal that packs a punch of flavor? Dive into the world of Cajun cuisine with our Effortless One Pan Cajun Rice! This vibrant dish combines the aromatic spices of Cajun cooking with hearty vegetables and tender rice, all cooked in just one pan. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you're craving a taste of the South, this recipe is not only simple but also bursting with flavor. Get ready to impress your family and friends with a dish that's as easy to make as it is satisfying—your taste buds will thank you!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Cajun
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup long-grain rice
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 cup frozen peas
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet or cast-iron pan over medium heat. Ensure the pan is wide enough to accommodate all ingredients.
- Add diced onions and bell peppers to the pan. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables become soft and slightly translucent, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Introduce minced garlic to the pan and cook for an additional 30-45 seconds, allowing the garlic to become fragrant but not burn.
- Pour in the long-grain rice and stir to coat the grains with oil and vegetable mixture, toasting the rice for about 1-2 minutes to enhance its nutty flavor.
- Sprinkle Cajun seasoning over the rice and vegetables, stirring to distribute the spices evenly.
- Add diced tomatoes and vegetable broth to the pan. Stir gently to combine all ingredients and ensure rice is submerged in liquid.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover the pan with a tight-fitting lid and simmer for 18-20 minutes, or until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
- In the last 5 minutes of cooking, fold in frozen peas to warm through.
- Remove from heat and let the dish rest, covered, for 5 minutes to allow rice to fully absorb remaining moisture.
- Fluff rice with a fork, taste, and add salt if needed. Serve hot as a main dish or side.
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To save time, chop your vegetables and measure out your ingredients before you start cooking. This will make the cooking process smoother and quicker.
- Use a Wide Pan: Choose a large skillet or cast-iron pan to ensure even cooking and enough space for all the ingredients. This helps the rice cook evenly and prevents sticking.
- Toast the Rice: Don’t skip the step of toasting the rice! It enhances the nutty flavor and adds depth to the dish. Stir it well with the vegetables for the best results.
- Adjust the Spice: If you love heat, feel free to add more Cajun seasoning or even a pinch of cayenne pepper to kick it up a notch. Conversely, if you're sensitive to spice, start with less and adjust to your taste.
- Let it Rest: After cooking, allow the dish to rest for a few minutes covered. This helps the rice absorb any remaining moisture and ensures a fluffy texture.
- Add Fresh Herbs: For an extra burst of flavor, consider garnishing your dish with fresh parsley or green onions before serving. It adds a lovely color and freshness to the meal.
- Serve with a Side: This dish pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or crusty bread to soak up the delicious flavors. Enjoy your Cajun feast!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 6g
Fat: 5g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
