Authentic Cajun Red Beans and Rice Recipe

Sonya's Red Beans and Rice is a classic Louisiana dish that is hearty, flavorful, and perfect for feeding a crowd. This recipe combines red kidney beans, smoked sausage, and a blend of spices to create a satisfying meal that will transport you straight to the heart of Cajun country.

Ingredients

• 1 pound dried red kidney beans
• 1 pound smoked sausage, sliced
• 1 large onion, diced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 3 stalks of celery, diced
• 4 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Cooked white rice, for serving

Directions

1. Rinse the dried red kidney beans and soak them overnight in a large pot of water.
2. In a large Dutch oven, cook the sliced smoked sausage over medium heat until browned.
3. Add the diced onion, bell pepper, celery, and garlic to the pot and cook until vegetables are softened.
4. Add the soaked red kidney beans, bay leaves, thyme, oregano, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper to the pot.
5. Cover everything with water and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 1.5 hours or until beans are tender.
6. Mash some of the beans against the side of the pot to thicken the mixture.
7. Adjust seasoning to taste and serve the red beans over cooked white rice.
8. Enjoy Sonya's Red Beans and Rice with hot sauce and cornbread for a true taste of Louisiana.

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