Creole Jambalaya

After sifting through many Jambalaya recipes and researching traditional Jambalaya methods I came up with this recipe. It is moderately spicy with good flavour and a texture that is not too gummy or too soupy. You can use a store bought spice mix but I highly recommend mixing up your own for the fullest flavour. Leaving the shells of the shrimp intact keeps them tender while the rice is cooking...just remember to warn your diners before they start eating!

• Ready In: 50 mins
• Serves: 4-6

Ingredients

• 2  tablespoons olive oil
• 2  tablespoons butter
• 3⁄4 lb boneless skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch chunks
• 1⁄2 lb andouille sausages or 1⁄2 lb  hot Italian sausage, cut into 1/2-inch slices
• 1  medium onion, diced
• 2 -3  garlic cloves, minced
• 1  celery rib, chopped
• 1⁄2 green pepper, diced
• 2  tablespoons  creole seasoning
• 1  tablespoon tomato paste
• 1  cup  canned diced tomato, with juices
• 1  cup  chicken stock
• 12  large shrimp, deveined, shells intact
• 1  cup long grain rice
• 2  scallions, chopped (optional)
• 1⁄4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Directions

1. Heat oil and butter in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add chicken, saute until brown.
2. Add sausage, onions, garlic, celery, green pepper and spice mix. Saute stirring occasionally until onions and pepper are tender.
3. Add tomato paste, canned tomatoes, chicken stock. Stir until well combined.
4. Reduce heat to low and add shrimp and rice stirring once.
5. Cover and let simmer for 20 minutes without stirring.
6. Remove from heat and stir once. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
7. Spoon into serving bowls and top with chopped scallions and fresh parsley. Serve with a baguette and some good white wine.