
Cajun Jambalaya vs. Creole Jambalaya: History, Differences, and Easy Recipes
What is Jambalaya?
Jambalaya is a one-pot rice dish with meats, vegetables, and seasonings. It comes in two main variations: Cajun and Creole.
Jambalaya's Unique History
Jambalaya, a hearty rice dish, originated in southern Louisiana in the late 19th century. The two main variations of Jambalaya - Cajun and Creole - reflect the diverse cultural and culinary influences that shaped Louisiana's cuisine.
Cajun and Creole History
Jambalaya is a rice dish thought to originate in south Louisiana in the 19th century. New Orleans’ Creole cuisine came from multiethnic influences, while the Cajun cuisine associated with French Acadian people who settled the swamps and prairies of southwest Louisiana is more rustic.
The Difference Between Cajun and Creole Jambalaya
While the differences between Cajun and Creole Jambalaya are subtle, the easiest way to distinguish between the two is by their color. Cajun Jambalaya is brown in color, owing to the use of smoked meats and lack of tomatoes. In contrast, Creole Jambalaya is red or orange in color, owing to the addition of tomatoes.
Cajun Jambalaya
Cajun Jambalaya is a one-pot meal that typically includes a variety of meats such as chicken, pork sausage, ham, and game. The key to its distinctive flavor is the use of smoked meats, which are caramelized in a cast-iron skillet to give the dish its characteristic brown color. Cajun jambalaya, also known as brown jambalaya, does not contain tomatoes, and all the ingredients are added at once and cooked slowly over low heat.
Creole Jambalaya
Creole jambalaya, also known as red jambalaya, is a layered dish that typically includes meats, onions, celery, bell peppers, tomatoes, and seafood. The meats are browned first, and then the vegetables are added and cooked until tender. Finally, rice and liquid are added, and the dish is allowed to steam until the rice is cooked.
Jambalaya Pasta
Jambalaya pasta, also known as Pastalaya, is a variation of Jambalaya that uses pasta instead of rice. It has a rich history, dating back to the influx of Sicilian immigrants in the late 19th century. Pastalaya is an easy and forgiving alternative to traditional Jambalaya, making it a popular dish for parties and gatherings.
Easy Recipes for Jambalaya
Whether you prefer Cajun or Creole Jambalaya, there are plenty of easy recipes to choose from. From classic stovetop versions to slow cooker and Instant Pot recipes, Jambalaya is a versatile dish that can be customized to suit any taste. Check out our collection of easy Jambalaya recipes, including Cajun Jambalaya pasta, Jambalaya in crock-pot, and more. The easiest recipe for jambalaya is to order one of our heat and serve products below. Ready in minutes.
Oak Grove Smokehouse Creole Jambalaya Mi...
Oak Grove Smokehouse Creole Jambalaya Mix 16 ozOak Grove Family-Pak Jambalaya MixLong ago, jambalaya..
$473 $526 -10%
Oak Grove Smokehouse Creole Jambalaya Mi...
Oak Grove Creole Jambalaya MixRice, seafood and seasonings repeatedly appear in the foods of South L..
$241 $268 -10%
Cajun Land Jambalaya Mix 8 oz...
Cajun Land Jambalaya Mix 8 ozThe Jambalaya we enjoy today in South Louisiana is the result of many c..
$360 $400 -10%
Louisiana Fish Fry Jambalaya Mix 7.5 oz ...
Louisiana Fish Fry Jambalaya Mix 7.5 oz Pack of 4Cajun Jambalaya Made Easy. The seasonings &..
$945 $1112 -15%
Louisiana Fish Fry Jambalaya Mix 7.5 oz...
Cajun Jambalaya Made Easy. The seasonings & spice are already in the bag. Just add you choice o..
$250 $278 -10%
Mam Papaul's Jambalaya Mix 8 oz...
This famous Louisiana specialty can be prepared in less than 30 minutes for a terrific side dish to ..
$335 $372 -10%
Ragin Cajun Fixin's Jambalaya Mix...
Ragin Cajun Fixin's Jambalaya Mix 8 ozMost popular and famous of Cajun dishes is jambalaya. This con..
$360 $400 -10%
Oak Grove Smokehouse Creole Jambalaya Mi...
Oak Grove Creole Jambalaya Mix Pack of 5Rice, seafood and seasonings repeatedly appear in the foods ..
$1206 $1340 -10%
Oak Grove Smokehouse Creole Jambalaya Mi...
Oak Grove Creole Jambalaya Mix Pack of 4Rice, seafood and seasonings repeatedly appear in the foods ..
$965 $1072 -10%
Oak Grove Smokehouse Creole Jambalaya Mi...
Oak Grove Creole Jambalaya Mix Pack of 24Rice, seafood and seasonings repeatedly appear in the foods..
$4824 $6432 -25%
Oak Grove Smokehouse Creole Jambalaya Mi...
Oak Grove Creole Jambalaya Mix Pack of 12Rice, seafood and seasonings repeatedly appear in the foods..
$2573 $3216 -20%
Oak Grove Smokehouse Creole Jambalaya Mi...
Oak Grove Smokehouse Creole Jambalaya Mix 16 ozOak Grove Family-Pak Jambalaya MixLong ago, jambalaya..
$947 $1052 -10%
Louisiana Fish Fry Jambalaya Mix 7.5 oz ...
Louisiana Fish Fry Jambalaya Mix 7.5 oz Pack of 2Cajun Jambalaya Made Easy. The seasonings &..
$487 $556 -12%
Konriko Jambalaya Mix 7-3/8 oz...
KONRIKO Jambalaya Mix with Rice contains the right amount of ingredients to make a flavorful Louisia..
$500 $556 -10%
CHEF JOHN FOLSE Chicken & Sausage Ja...
Description:From boudin to chef's knives, from gumbos to cookbooks, Chef John Folse is proud to make..
$1898
Zatarain's Jambalaya Pasta Mix...
Introducing Zatarain's New Orleans Style Pasta Dinners - the fun of pasta with the flavor of New Orl..
$248 $383 -35%
TONY CHACHERE'S Jambalaya Mix 8 oz...
Jambalaya is South Louisiana's most popular one-pot meat-and-rice dish. Combine your choice of..
$288 $320 -10%
Cajun Jambalaya 4 lb...
A New Orleans signature dish... A rich combination of chicken and andouille sausage with savory flav..
$3508
CajunGrocer Creole Jambalaya...
CajunGrocer Creole JambalayaA New Orleans signature dish... A rich combination of chicken and andoui..
$3886
BIG EASY Pork & Sausage Jambalaya...
Description: BIG EASY'S Pork & Sausage Jambalaya  For a heartier meal try adding additional sausa..
$590
Monica's Cajun Chicken & Sausage Jam...
Dark meat chicken, smoked sausage cooked with a kick of bacon and sauteed vegetables and Cajun spice..
$3603
Blue Runner Creole Jambalaya Base 25 oz...
Shake can before opening. In a saucepan, bring Blue Runner Creole Jambalaya Base to a boil. Then com..
$706 $784 -10%
Poche's Pork Jambalaya 64 oz...
Poche's Pork Jambalaya Mix.One of the most universally loved Cajun recipes, Pork Jambalaya ..
$2700 $3000 -10%
Crawfish Town USA Seafood Jambalaya...
Rich Seafood stock simmered with onions, bell peppers, celery, blond roux, and Louisiana seafood sea..
$3243
Cajun's Choice - Jambalaya Seasoning Mix...
Cajun's Choice - Jambalaya Seasoning Mix .42oz..
$144 $160 -10%
Jambalaya Girl Jambalaya Mix 8 oz...
Jambalaya Girl Jambalaya Mix 8 ozAUTHENTIC, EASY NEW ORLEANS DINNER MIX: Just add chicken and sausag..
$414
Cast Iron LSU Jambalaya Pot...
Show your LSU pride with our 6.5 quart professional-grade enamel cast iron pots. Officially Licen..
$13999 $14999 -7%
Red Louisiana Dutch Oven Jambalaya Pot...
Louisiana Dutch Oven Jambalaya Pot 6.5 quart.6.5 quart.Perfect for tailgating, at the camp or in the..
$13999 $14999 -7%