16th DAY OF CHRISTMAS (Cajun Rice)

JAMBALAYA

Ingredients

1 tablespoon oil
1 16 ounce package kielbasa, cut into 1⁄4-inch rounds
1 14.5 can diced tomatoes
1 10 ounce can Rotel tomatoes and chilis
1 cup water
1 8-ounce box jambalaya, Spanish, or fiesta-flavored rice mix
1 pound peeled and deveined raw shrimp
1/4 teaspoon hot pepper sauce (optional)

Preparation

Heat the oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the kielbasa and cook until browned on both sides, about 4 minutes. Add the tomatoes with 1 cup of water and bring to a boil. Stir in the rice mix. Reduce heat, cover, and cook for the time specified on the rice package. Add the shrimp and stir. Cover and cook until the shrimp are pink, 3 to 4 minutes. Add the hot pepper sauce (if using). Spoon into individual bowls.

15th DAY OF CHRISTMAS (Soup)

Spicy Beef Vegetable Soup

Ingredients:
1 pound ground beef
1 cup chopped onion
1 (30 ounce) jar meatless spaghetti sauce
3 1/2 cups water
1 (16 ounce) package frozen mixed vegetables or fresh carrots and potatoes
1 (10 ounce) can diced tomatoes with green chilies
1 cup sliced celery
2 beef bouillon cubes
1 teaspoon pepper

Directions

1. In a skillet over medium heat, cook beef and onion until meat is no longer pink; drain.
2. Transfer to a slow cooker. Stir in the remaining ingredients.
3. Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or until the vegetables are tender.