How to reheat jambalaya

Jambalaya is a dish you can make ahead and freeze or make in bulk, freeze and enjoy later. It is up to you to reheat jambalaya using the microwave, the stove, or the oven. However, these come with pros and cons.

You can have jambalaya tasting nearly as good as the first time. Make sure you retain the flavor of the jambalaya as you prevent all possible measures that give you a mushy or dried-out jambalaya. Take note of the storage and reheating steps below. 

Microwave

The microwave is the quickest way to reheat your jambalaya. It is convenient if you have stored the leftover jambalaya in a microwave-safe container because you do not have to worry about washing dishes.

You only need a minute to warm up jambalaya. There is no need to wait for the microwave to heat up. However, using the microwave can be risky when heating a dish such as jambalaya. If the jambalaya contains shrimp, it might turn out rubbery when heated in the microwave. Place plastic wrap or a damp towel over the jambalaya, so it does not dry in the microwave.

Steps

1. Place the leftover jambalaya in a microwave-safe dish.
2. Cover the dish with plastic wrap or with a damp paper towel.
3. Heat the jambalaya for 30 seconds, or until steaming hot.
4. Allow it to sit for 30 seconds, to heat evenly.
5. If there is a large portion of jambalaya, repeat the heating until it is heated.
6. Serve the jambalaya immediately.

Oven

The oven takes a bit longer, but it is worth the wait. It gives consistent reheating for the jambalaya. Use the aluminum foil so that it will not dry out. Add a tablespoon or two of broth to prevent the jambalaya from drying.

Unlike the microwave, you have to wait for the oven to heat up and wait around half an hour for the jambalaya to be heated. Do not stir your jambalaya while you are reheating it.

Steps

1. Preheat the oven to 300 degrees Fahrenheit.
2. Use an oven-safe dish, and cover it with aluminum foil.
3. Add some water to the jambalaya to prevent it from drying out. A tablespoon or two will be enough so that you do not drench the rice.
4. Place the dish in the oven and allow it to reheat for around 30 minutes. It depends on the size, and if the jambalaya is still cool from being in the fridge. 
5. Once heated up, serve it immediately and discard any leftovers.

Steamer

To reheat jambalaya using the steaming method, you need a sieve. The steamer is there to moisten dry jambalaya because it is less harsh than the other methods. It is not the quickest or most accessible method for reheating jambalaya, but there is consistency in which it produces results. 

It adds moisture to dry leftovers. Keep an eye on your food to ensure it does not become gummy and overcooked. The jambalaya comes out of the steamer moist and fluffy.

Steps

1. Fill a pot with water and place it on the stove, on medium to high heat.
2. Put leftover jambalaya in a sieve.
3. Rest the sieve over the boiling water in the pot.
4. Cover the sieve with a lid to retain moisture and distribute heat.
5. Once the jambalaya reaches your desired temperature, remove it from the stove.
6. Serve and enjoy.

Best method

Stove

The stove is the best way to reheat jambalaya. It takes less time than the oven, but longer than the microwave. Transfer the jambalaya from its storage container to a frying pan. The stovetop method is best for retaining taste and texture. It is quick, convenient, and revives the dish’s flavors.

The stove can take long, compared to a microwave, and gives you extra cleaning as you have to wash an additional pan. The pan may become too hot, and the jambalaya sticking and burning. The steaminess of the pan ensures that the rice warms up but does not become mushy,

Steps

1. Place the jambalaya into a frying pan.
2. Turn the stove onto medium heat and let it warm up.
3. Add a tablespoon of broth or water to the jambalaya for moisture.
4. Allow the jambalaya to reheat for up to 5 minutes, or until hot.
5. Serve the jambalaya and discard any leftovers.

Storage

To store leftover jambalaya, keep it in a sealed container in the fridge and eat it within 3 to 4 days. Alternatively, you can store it in the freezer for up to 6 months in a suitable container or vacuum-sealed bag. If you have any seafood shells in the dish, remove these before storing them. Never store food in plastic containers not intended for food (Healthhub. sg).

Safe Temperatures

The needed temperature for jambalaya is 350°F (180°C). 

FAQs

Can I reheat jambalaya for a second time?

Yes, but you should avoid reheating jambalaya for a second time. It has to be cooked, stored correctly, and only reheated once. Reheating the jambalaya for a second time poses a higher risk of bacteria growth.

Only reheat as much as you are going to eat. Either freeze or refrigerate what is leftover to enjoy at a later stage. If you reheat the food at the correct temperature and for the duration, it can be reheated multiple times.

Does jambalaya freeze well?

Jambalaya is a rice dish that freezes well. It still tastes great if frozen and reheated again, but it might not taste as fresh as when initially cooked. Ensure that the jambalaya is stored in the freezer, and in an airtight container that prevents freezer burns. 

How do I thaw jambalaya?

Leave it in the fridge overnight. This way, the jambalaya defrost slowly, but it will not be exposed to temperatures that may result in excessive bacteria growth that could lead to food poisoning.

How long does jambalaya last?

At room temperature, consume jambalaya within one to two hours but if it has been out longer than two hours, throw it away. In the fridge, keep it in an airtight container, and the jambalaya will last 3 to 4 days. In the freezer, you can keep jambalaya for six months in containers or airtight bags.