1jalapeno pepper,finely chopped (optional) (see notes)
3stalkscelery,chopped
1Tbsp(15 mL) purchased Cajun seasoning blend,or more to taste
2tsp(10 mL) dried oregano
1lb(500 g) fresh or smoked sausage,sliced into 1-inch (2.5 cm) rounds
8boneless, skinless chicken thighs,cut into thirds
1can(19 oz/540 mL) no salt added tomatoes,whole or diced
1cup(250 mL) no salt added chicken or vegetable broth, or water
1 1/2lbs750 g shelled & deveined medium or large uncooked shrimp
1lb(500 g) small okra,fresh or frozen (see notes)
1 1/4cups(300 mL) cooked or canned pinto beans,drained & rinsed (see notes)
To Serve
3cups(750 mL) white or brown long grain rice,cooked
chopped fresh cilantro and basil
lime slices
Louisiana style (or other) hot sauce
Directions
In a deep wide skillet with a cover, Dutch oven, or large pot, heat 1 Tbsp (15 mL) of oil over medium heat.
Add onions, celery and peppers and sauté until soft and fragrant, about 3 minutes.
Stir in Cajun seasoning and oregano and cook for 1 minute. Remove mixture to a bowl and set aside.
Add remaining 1 Tbsp (15 mL) oil to the skillet. Add sausage and chicken and stir fry until browned, about 7 minutes.
Return onion mixture to pan and stir in tomatoes and broth or water.
Reduce heat, cover and simmer mixture, stirring occasionally, until chicken is cooked through.
Gently stir in shrimp, okra and beans. Simmer until heated through and shrimp is fully cooked.
Serve over hot rice with chopped herbs, lime and hot sauce to garnish.
Notes
Wear latex or rubber gloves when handling the jalapeno pepper as the oils and seeds in a jalapeno can irritate your skin. Make sure you avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth to prevent any irritation, and wash your hands with soap and water when you are done working with the pepper.
If you want a spicier dish, leave the seeds in the jalapeno. For less spice, remove the seeds.
You can use summer squash, diced yams or green peas instead of the okra.
A 14 oz (398 mL) can of pinto beans, drained & rinsed yields 1 1/4 cups (300 mL) cooked beans. Want to cook pintos from dry? Check out our website for more information!
