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Unlock Bold Flavors of North Africa Recipe

Unlock Bold Flavors of North Africa Recipe
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★★★★★

5.2 from 7 reviews

Shrimp Dirty Rice is a flavorful and hearty Cajun dish blending succulent shrimp, savory ground pork sausage, and aromatic vegetables with spicy seasoned rice. This one-pan Southern classic combines the delicate sweetness of shrimp with bold Cajun spices and the traditional “holy trinity” of bell peppers, onions, and celery. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a soulful Southern dinner, it delivers layers of smoky, spicy, and fresh flavors in every bite.

Ingredients

Scale

Proteins

  • 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1/2 lb ground pork sausage

Vegetables & Aromatics

  • 1 green bell pepper, diced
  • 1 celery stalk, diced
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

Grains & Liquids

  • 1 cup long grain white rice
  • 2 cups chicken broth

Seasonings & Oils

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Optional

  • Hot sauce for serving

Instructions

  1. Cook the Shrimp: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the shrimp and sauté for 2-3 minutes per side until they turn pink and are cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside to prevent overcooking.
  2. Brown the Sausage: In the same skillet, add the ground pork sausage. Cook over medium heat, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
  3. Sauté the Vegetables: Add the diced onion, bell pepper, and celery to the skillet with the sausage. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.
  4. Add Garlic and Spices: Stir in the minced garlic, Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 1 additional minute to toast the spices and release their aromas.
  5. Toast the Rice: Add the rice to the skillet and stir continuously for 1-2 minutes until the grains are lightly golden and coated with the flavorful mixture.
  6. Simmer the Rice: Pour in the chicken broth, bringing the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
  7. Combine Shrimp and Finish: Gently fold the cooked shrimp and chopped fresh parsley into the rice. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Allow the dish to rest for a few minutes off the heat to meld flavors.
  8. Serve: Serve the Shrimp Dirty Rice hot, with optional hot sauce on the side for extra heat if desired.

Notes

  • Use fresh shrimp for the best flavor and texture; if using frozen, thaw and pat dry thoroughly before cooking.
  • Do not overcook shrimp—add them back to the skillet at the end to avoid rubbery texture.
  • This dish can be made with chicken sausage or turkey sausage as a leaner alternative.
  • Brown rice can substitute white rice for added fiber and a nuttier flavor but increase cooking time accordingly.
  • Adjust cayenne and Cajun seasoning to desired spice level, especially for children or sensitive eaters.
  • Use a deep skillet or Dutch oven to prevent spills and ensure even cooking.
  • Leftovers store well in refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat nicely.

Nutrition

Keywords: Shrimp Dirty Rice, Cajun Recipe, Southern Food, One-Pan Meal, Spicy Rice, Creole Dish, Louisiana Cuisine, Quick Dinner, Seafood Rice

Find it online: https://messykitchenmagic.com/unlock-bold-flavors-of-north-africa-recipe/