All-American Pepper Jambalaya

Cooking Instructions

1. Combine the apricots and apricot brandy in a small bowl; let stand, covered, at least 15 minutes.

2. Heat the butter with the oil in a large heavy skillet over medium heat. Add the scallions; cook 1 minute. Add the garlic, ham, and the green pepper and red pepper strips. Cook, stirring constantly, until the peppers are almost tender, about 5 minutes. Stir in the shrimp; cook, stirring constantly, 3 minutes. Add the apricot mixture; cook 3 minutes longer.

3. Combine the lemon juice, soy sauce, cornstarch, and dried red pepper in a small bowl. Stir this into the shrimp-pepper mixture. Add the chili powder and pimiento. Continue to stir until the chili powder is well incorporated and the mixture is slightly thickened, about 4 minutes. Sprinkle with the toasted almonds. Serve over rice.