This authentic New Orleans red beans and rice recipe is a classic Southern dish that is full of flavor and comforting to the soul. The combination of smoky andouille sausage, creamy red beans, and aromatic spices creates a deliciously hearty meal that is perfect for any occasion. Serve it over fluffy white rice for a truly satisfying meal.
Ingredients
- 1 pound dried red kidney beans
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound andouille sausage, sliced
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- Hot cooked white rice, for serving
- Green onions, chopped, for garnish
Directions
- Rinse the kidney beans under cold water and remove any debris or stones. Place the beans in a large bowl and cover with water. Let soak overnight or at least 8 hours.
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the onions, bell peppers, and celery. Cook until the vegetables are soft and slightly caramelized, about 10 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and sliced andouille sausage to the pot. Cook for another 5 minutes, or until the sausage is browned and slightly crispy.
- Drain and rinse the soaked beans and add them to the pot. Stir in the bay leaves, thyme, oregano, paprika, cayenne pepper, black pepper, and salt.
- Pour in the chicken broth and Worcestershire sauce. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let simmer for 2-3 hours, or until the beans are tender and the flavors have melded together.
- Remove the bay leaves from the pot. Use a spoon to mash some of the beans against the side of the pot to thicken the mixture.
- Serve the red beans over hot cooked white rice. Garnish with chopped green onions.
- Enjoy the authentic flavors of New Orleans in this comforting and delicious red beans and rice dish!
Interesting Facts
Red beans and rice is a traditional Monday dish in New Orleans, often made with leftover ham bones from Sunday dinners.
The dish is said to have originated from West African cuisine, brought to New Orleans by enslaved Africans.
The combination of red beans and rice is considered a complete protein source and was a staple for many African American communities during times of scarcity.
New Orleans is famous for its Creole and Cajun cuisines, influenced by French, Spanish, African, and Caribbean flavors.