Nobody beats my Southern nana in making this!

In the heart of the Midwest, where the fields stretch as far as the eye can see, we often find ourselves yearning for a taste of something a little different, something that brings a bit of the bayou to our table. This Crawfish, Shrimp, and Andouille Sausage Fried Rice is a delightful fusion of Southern charm and Midwestern comfort. It's a dish that tells a story of blending traditions, perfect for those who want to experience the rich, spicy flavors of the South while staying true to the hearty, satisfying meals we cherish here in the heartland. This recipe is perfect for a family gathering or a cozy dinner at home, where every bite is a reminder of the warmth and love that goes into a home-cooked meal.

This fried rice pairs beautifully with a simple green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette, which adds a refreshing contrast to the rich and savory flavors of the dish. For a touch of sweetness, consider serving it alongside some cornbread or a fruit salad, which can help balance the spice. A crisp, cold glass of iced tea or lemonade would also complement the meal perfectly, making it a delightful experience for a warm evening.

Servings: 4-6 servings

2 cups of cooked white rice, preferably day-old
1/2 pound of crawfish tails, peeled and deveined
1/2 pound of shrimp, peeled and deveined
1/2 pound of Andouille sausage, sliced
2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
1 onion, finely chopped
2 cloves of garlic, minced
1 bell pepper, diced
2 stalks of celery, diced
2 tablespoons of soy sauce
1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning
2 green onions, sliced
Salt and pepper to taste

1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.

2. Add the sliced Andouille sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

3. In the same skillet, add the onion, garlic, bell pepper, and celery. Sauté until the vegetables are soft, about 5 minutes.

4. Add the crawfish and shrimp to the skillet, cooking until the shrimp are pink and opaque, about 3-4 minutes.

5. Stir in the cooked rice, soy sauce, and Cajun seasoning, mixing well to combine all the ingredients.

6. Return the sausage to the skillet and stir everything together, cooking for another 2-3 minutes until heated through.

7. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

8. Garnish with sliced green onions before serving.

For a milder version, you can reduce the amount of Cajun seasoning or use a mild sausage instead of Andouille. If you prefer a bit more heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some chopped jalapeños. You can also add other vegetables like peas or carrots for extra color and nutrition. If crawfish is hard to find, you can substitute with more shrimp or even chicken for a different twist.