FOOD NEWS
What's The Distinction Between Creole And Cajun Jambalaya?
BY PEGGY AOKI
Jambalaya is a mixed rice dish popular in Louisiana, with both Creole and Cajun variations served in the state. While both dishes share a foundation, they differ in a few ways.
The basic formula for jambalaya is long grain rice seasoned with onion, bell pepper, celery, cayenne, paprika, thyme, and garlic, cooked in broth until tender.
Creole jambalaya comes from New Orleans, and typically features tomatoes and ingredients like seafood and chicken, as a nod to the city's French and Spanish influence.
Cajun jambalaya is more rustic, hailing from rural Louisiana. Instead of tomato, it relies on a dark roux and smoked meats for flavor, reflecting the dish’s working-class roots.
While Creole cuisine emerged as a fusion of French, Spanish, African, and Native American cuisines, Cajun cuisine takes inspiration from Native American and African influences.
Creole cuisine makes ample use of ripe tomatoes, fresh herbs, and rich sauces, while Cajun cuisine is full of local ingredients, bold flavors, seafood, and chicken.