1-First, cook the 1 ½ cups of uncooked brown rice according to package directions. Add 1 bay leaf, ¼ teaspoon salt, ⅛ teaspoon cayenne pepper, ⅈ teaspoon paprika, and ⅛ teaspoon thyme to the water for extra flavor.

2-While the rice is nearly done, heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and cook the 1 pound of medium shrimp for about 5 minutes until they’re done. Set the shrimp aside and discard any liquid from the skillet.

3-Heat oil again in the skillet and sauté 1 medium chopped onion, 2 minced garlic cloves, 2 chopped celery stalks, and 2 chopped bell peppers (one green and one orange) over medium heat until soft, about 5 minutes.

4-Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste, ½ teaspoon cumin, the remaining ⅛ teaspoon cayenne pepper, the remaining ⅛ teaspoon paprika, and the remaining ⅛ teaspoon thyme.

5-Add 1 pound of ground beef or ground pork sausage and cook for 10 to 15 minutes until fully cooked. Some people like to brown the meat first to render the fat and use it for sautéing the vegetables.

6-Stir in the cooked rice and the cooked shrimp, toss to combine, cover, and cook for a few more minutes. Serve warm, sprinkled with 2 chopped scallions.