Cajun Kielbasa and Shrimp Stew is a hearty and flavorful dish that combines succulent shrimp, smoky kielbasa, and a blend of aromatic vegetables and spices. This stew is perfect for a cozy dinner and is sure to impress your family and friends with its rich Cajun flavors.
Appliances and Special Utensils
- Large pot or Dutch oven with lid
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients
- 1 lb kielbasa sausage, sliced into 1/2-inch pieces
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup water
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 bay leaves
- 2 cups cooked white rice
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
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Prepare Ingredients: Begin by slicing the kielbasa sausage into 1/2-inch pieces and peeling and deveining the shrimp. Dice the onion and bell peppers, and mince the garlic.
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Heat Oil: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
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Cook Kielbasa: Add the sliced kielbasa to the pot and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the kielbasa from the pot and set it aside.
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Sauté Vegetables: In the same pot, add the diced onion, green bell pepper, and red bell pepper. Sauté until the vegetables are tender, about 5-6 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
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Add Tomatoes and Broth: Stir in the diced tomatoes, chicken broth, water, and tomato paste. Mix well to combine.
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Season: Add the Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, dried thyme, dried oregano, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, black pepper, and bay leaves. Stir to incorporate the spices.
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Simmer: Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for 20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
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Add Kielbasa and Shrimp: Return the browned kielbasa to the pot and add the shrimp. Stir to combine and cook until the shrimp are pink and cooked through, about 5 minutes.
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Serve: Remove the bay leaves and discard them. Serve the Cajun Kielbasa and Shrimp Stew over cooked white rice. Garnish with sliced green onions and chopped parsley.
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Enjoy: Enjoy your hearty and flavorful Cajun Kielbasa and Shrimp Stew with your family and friends!