Jambalaya is a popular dish from Louisiana, USA, which is a combination of Spanish, French, and West African cuisines. 1 cup prepared (38 g) New Orleans Style Jambalaya has approximately 130 calories.

The dish is typically made with rice, meat, and vegetables, but the ingredients can vary depending on the region and personal preference. The use of spices like cayenne pepper, thyme, and paprika gives the dish a smoky and spicy flavor.

In this article, we'll explore the nutritional content of Jambalaya and discuss whether it can be considered a healthy meal option.

Calories in 1 cup of New Orleans Style Jambalaya

1 cup prepared (38 g) New Orleans Style Jambalaya has approximately 130 calories. The number of calories can vary depending on the ingredients used and the serving size. Jambalaya is not a low-calorie dish but can be a filling and satisfying meal option. It is important to monitor portion sizes and balance it with other nutrient-dense foods.

What is Jambalaya?

Jambalaya is a rice-based dish that originated from Louisiana, USA. The dish has a variety of ingredients including meat, seafood, and vegetables. The use of spices gives it a unique flavor profile that is smoky and spicy. There are different variations of Jambalaya, including Creole Jambalaya, which is primarily tomato-based, and Cajun Jambalaya, which does not use tomatoes. The dish is a fusion of Spanish, French, and West African cuisines.

What are the Ingredients of Jambalaya?

The main ingredients of Jambalaya include rice, meat (such as chicken, sausage, or shrimp), vegetables (such as onions, peppers, and celery) and spices. The type of meat and vegetables used can vary, and there are different styles of Jambalaya depending on the region. Creole Jambalaya generally includes tomatoes and is considered to be milder than Cajun Jambalaya.

How Many Carbs are in Jambalaya?

Jambalaya is a carb-heavy dish, primarily due to the rice used. One cup of prepared Jambalaya contains around 22 grams of carbohydrates. However, the dish also contains protein and fiber which can help slow down the absorption of carbohydrates, keeping you fuller for longer.

What is the Protein Content of Jambalaya?

Jambalaya is a good source of protein, which is essential for muscle repair and growth. One cup of prepared Jambalaya contains around 12 grams of protein. The protein content can vary depending on the type of meat used. Shrimp is a great source of protein and is commonly used in Jambalaya.

Is Jambalaya High in Sodium?

Jambalaya can be high in sodium, mainly due to the use of processed meats and spices. One cup of Jambalaya may contain around 700-800 mg of sodium, which is about one-third of the daily recommended intake. It is important to be mindful of the sodium content and balance it with other low-sodium foods.

What is the Fat Content of Jambalaya?

Jambalaya can be a high-fat dish, especially if made with fatty meats like sausage. One cup of prepared Jambalaya may contain around 5-9 grams of fat. However, the dish also contains healthy fats from sources like shrimp and vegetables. It is important to balance the intake of healthy and unhealthy fats.

What is the Fiber Content of Jambalaya?

Jambalaya is a good source of fiber, which is essential for good digestion. One cup of prepared Jambalaya contains around 2.5 grams of fiber, which is about 10% of the daily recommended intake. The fiber content comes mainly from the vegetables and rice used in the dish.

How Many Vitamins and Minerals are in Jambalaya?

Jambalaya is a good source of vitamins and minerals. The dish contains vitamin C, vitamin A, iron, and potassium. The amount of vitamins and minerals can vary depending on the ingredients used. Adding more vegetables can increase the nutrient content of the dish.

Can Jambalaya be Healthy?

Jambalaya can be a healthy meal option if made with the right ingredients and portion sizes. Choosing lean meats, adding more vegetables, and using brown rice instead of white rice can increase the nutrient content of the dish. It is also important to balance it with other nutrient-dense foods and monitor the sodium and fat content. Overall, Jambalaya is a tasty and filling meal option that can be enjoyed in moderation.