8 net carbs

Jambalaya

Savor the vibrant flavors of our low-carb jambalaya, featuring a delicious combination of beef kielbasa, chicken, and shrimp cooked in Cajun spices, with hearty bell peppers, onions, and celery, offering a flavorful twist on a classic favorite.

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Jambalaya

Close-up side view of low-carb jambalaya being served with a wooden spoon.

Low-carb jambalaya [Keto]

Total Diabetes Wellness
Savor the vibrant flavors of the Deep South with our low-carb jambalaya recipe. This hearty dish features a delicious combination of savory beef kielbasa, tender chicken, and succulent shrimp, all cooked to perfection in Cajun spices. With each bite, enjoy the hearty flavors of diced bell peppers, onions, and celery mixed with garlic and a blend of herbs and spices. Enjoy this low-carb twist on a classic favorite without compromising on taste. Our jambalaya is sure to impress with its simplicity and flavor.
5 from 1 vote
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Course Lunch and Dinner
Cuisine American, Spanish
Servings 6 servings
Net Carbs 8 g
*Net carbs are per serving

Ingredients
 

  • 4 tablespoons avocado oil, (or olive oil)
  • 1 green bell pepper, diced
  • ½ small red onion, diced
  • 1 stalk celery, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 14 ounces beef kielbasa sausage, sliced
  • 8 ounces chicken thighs, chopped into bite-size pieces
  • 1 tablespoon dried oregano
  • 1 tablespoon dried thyme
  • 1 tablespoon paprika
  • ½-1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • 8 ounces large shrimp, peeled & deveined
  • 1 14-ounce can diced tomatoes
  • 6 cups cauliflower rice
  • Optional garnish: chopped fresh parsley

Instructions
 

  • In a large skillet or saute pan, heat the oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the bell pepper, red onion, celery, and garlic. Cook for 3-5 minutes until the vegetables start to soften.
    Top view of vegetables cooking in a large sauté pan, cooking low-carb jambalaya.
  • Add the sausage, chicken, oregano, thyme, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Stir until well combined. Cook for 5-10 minutes, until chicken is fully cooked.
    Top-view of a sauté pan cooking vegetables and proteins to make low-carb jambalaya.
  • Add the shrimp, diced tomatoes, and cauliflower rice. Stir to combine. Cook for 5-10 minutes until the cauliflower rice has softened.
    Top-view of low-carb jambalaya cooking in a sauté pan.
  • Garnish with chopped parsley (optional). Enjoy!
    Top-view of low-carb jambalaya in a sauté pan, ready to serve and eat.

Nutrition

 

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Keywords cajun jambalaya, cauliflower rice jambalaya, easy jambalaya recipe, keto jambalaya
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Photos of Low-Carb Jambalaya

Notes

  • Adjusting spice level: Tailor the spice level of low-carb jambalaya to your taste preferences by increasing or decreasing the amount of cayenne pepper and other spices. Taste as you go and add more seasoning as needed to achieve your desired flavor profile.
  • Protein and veggie variations: Experiment with different proteins such as turkey sausage, beef, or tofu to personalize your jambalaya. You can also add extra vegetables like diced tomatoes, okra, or spinach for added nutrition and flavor complexity. Feel free to get creative and customize the dish to suit your dietary preferences and needs.
  • Cooking methods: While our recipe provides stovetop instructions, you can also adapt it to other cooking methods, such as using a slow cooker or instant pot for added convenience. Simply adjust cooking times and temperatures accordingly to ensure your jambalaya cooks to perfection.
  • Meal prep tips: Make meal prep quick by prepping ingredients in bulk and portioning them out for future use. Chop extra vegetables, slice sausage and chicken, then store them in individual containers in the fridge for quick and easy assembly when you’re ready to cook.
  • Garnish with fresh herbs: Elevate the flavor of your low-carb jambalaya by garnishing it with fresh herbs like chopped parsley or green onions before serving. Not only do they add a pop of color and freshness, but they also impart a burst of flavor that enhances the overall dish.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this low-carb jambalaya recipe Keto?

Yes, this jambalaya recipe is Keto. One serving has 8 grams of net carbs, making this a good choice for lunch or dinner if you’re following a strict Keto diet.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free.

Storage and Reheating Guidelines

  • Make-ahead: Prepare low-carb jambalaya ingredients in advance by chopping vegetables, slicing sausage, and dicing the chicken. Store separately in the fridge until cooking.
  • Storing leftovers: Once cooled, leftover jambalaya can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
  • Freezing instructions: Portion jambalaya into freezer-safe containers, label them, and freeze for up to three months.
  • To reheat: Reheat jambalaya in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through, stirring occasionally. Alternatively, thaw frozen jambalaya in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Additional Details

Delight your taste buds with our flavorful low-carb jambalaya recipe, thoughtfully crafted for individuals managing diabetes. This savory dish brings the essence of the Deep South to your table while prioritizing health-conscious ingredients, making it an ideal choice for those seeking both flavor and nutritional balance in their meals.

Jambalaya, a staple of Louisiana cuisine, boasts a rich cultural heritage steeped in Spanish, French, and African culinary traditions. Evolving over centuries, this dish reflects the vibrant tapestry of flavors and influences that define the region. Originally prepared with rice, our low-carb adaptation substitutes cauliflower rice, offering a lighter alternative without compromising on taste or authenticity.

Details about ingredients

  • Beef kielbasa: Provides a savory base with its rich flavor and hearty texture.
  • Chicken: Adds lean protein to the dish, contributing to a balanced and satisfying meal.
  • Shrimp: Brings a touch of seafood sweetness and succulence to each bite.
  • Vegetables: Diced bell peppers, onions, and celery lend depth and complexity to the dish, while garlic infuses it with aromatic warmth.
  • Spices: A blend of Cajun spices, including paprika, oregano, thyme, and cayenne pepper, elevates the flavor profile with a perfect balance of heat and seasoning.
  • Cauliflower rice: Serves as a low-carb substitute for traditional rice, seamlessly integrating into the dish while offering a lighter texture and fewer carbs.

Variations

Customize our low-carb jambalaya to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs.

  • Protein options: Experiment with different protein sources such as turkey sausage, lean beef, or tofu for a vegetarian twist.
  • Spice level: Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to tailor the dish to your preferred level of heat.
  • Additional vegetables: Enhance the dish with extra veggies like diced tomatoes, okra, or spinach for added nutrition and flavor complexity.

Serving pairings

Pair our low-carb jambalaya with complementary side dishes and beverages for a satisfying meal experience.

  • Steamed vegetables: Serve alongside a medley of steamed vegetables such as broccoli, carrots, and green beans for added fiber and nutrients.
  • Fresh salad: Accompany the jambalaya with a crisp green salad tossed with a light vinaigrette dressing for a refreshing contrast.
  • Beverage options: Quench your thirst with a glass of unsweetened iced tea or infused water with a squeeze of lemon or lime for a refreshing accompaniment.

Benefits for people with diabetes

Our low-carb jambalaya offers numerous benefits for individuals managing diabetes:

  • Controlled carbohydrate intake: By using cauliflower rice instead of traditional rice, the dish provides a lower glycemic load, helping to manage blood sugar levels more effectively.
  • Balanced macronutrients: With a balanced mix of lean protein, healthy fats, and fiber-rich vegetables, the jambalaya helps promote satiety and prevent blood sugar spikes.
  • Nutrient density: Packed with essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants from fresh vegetables and spices, the dish contributes to overall health and well-being.

Tips

Maximize the convenience and enjoyment of preparing our low-carb jambalaya with these helpful tips:

  • Time-saving ingredients: Opt for pre-cut vegetables and pre-cooked proteins to streamline the cooking process and reduce prep time.
  • Leaner protein choices: Choose lean varieties of kielbasa sausage and trim excess fat to minimize saturated fat intake.
  • Seasoning adjustment: Tailor the seasoning to your taste preferences by adjusting the amount of spices and salt used in the recipe.
  • Leftover storage: Store any leftover jambalaya in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days, allowing for easy reheating and enjoyment later on.

With its enticing flavors, wholesome ingredients, and diabetes-friendly profile, our low-carb jambalaya offers a delicious and nutritious meal option for individuals seeking both taste and health benefits. Whether enjoyed as a comforting weeknight dinner or shared with family and friends, this flavorful dish is sure to become a beloved favorite in your culinary repertoire. So why not embark on a culinary adventure and savor the taste of the Deep South with our low-carb jambalaya recipe today?

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Recipe Rating




This Post Has 2 Comments

  1. 5 stars
    I made this delicious jambalaya today! I used Cajun seasoning instead of the spices listed and added a dash of hot sauce. My family loves it and didn’t even notice the rice wasn’t actual rice, I will definitely be making it again!

    1. Hi Sylvia, Thanks for your review! I’m so glad your family enjoyed this recipe, Cajun seasoning sounds like a yummy addition!