9 Budget-Friendly Rice Recipes That Taste Gourmet

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This vegetable jambalaya is a colorful, budget-friendly twist on the Southern classic, packed with hearty rice and a variety of fresh vegetables. Seasoned with warm spices, the dish is smoky, satisfying, and perfect for family dinners or meal prep. It’s an easy, one-pot recipe that feels bold and comforting without breaking the budget. Try swapping out the vegetables for the frozen ones in the back of your freezer!

Ingredients (for 4 servings):

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 sweet potato, peeled and cubed
• 2 carrots, diced
• 1 cup rice (long-grain or basmati)
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 1 can (15 oz) beans of choice, drained and rinsed
• ½ cup peas (fresh or frozen)
• ½ cup sweetcorn (fresh, frozen, or canned)
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• ½ tsp chili powder (optional)
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, cooking until softened, about 3 min.
2. Stir in the sweet potato and carrots. Cook for 5 min., stirring occasionally.
3. Add the rice, smoked paprika, chili powder, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to coat the rice in the seasonings.
4. Pour in the vegetable broth, bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 15–18 min, or until the rice and vegetables are tender.
5. Stir in the beans, peas, and sweetcorn, cooking for 3–4 min. until heated through. Taste and adjust the seasoning before serving warm.