Delicious and Easy Red Beans and Rice Recipe

This classic Southern red beans and rice recipe is a delicious and comforting dish that is perfect for any occasion. Made with tender red beans, smoky sausage, and flavorful spices, this dish is packed with flavor and hearty goodness. Serve it with a side of cornbread for a complete meal that will satisfy your soul.

Ingredients

• 1 pound dried red kidney beans
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 onion, diced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 pound smoked sausage, sliced
• 2 bay leaves
• 2 teaspoons dried thyme
• 2 teaspoons paprika
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 6 cups chicken broth
• 3 cups cooked white rice
• Green onions, chopped (for garnish)

Directions

1. Rinse the red beans in cold water and remove any debris or stones.
2. In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat.
3. Add the diced onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic to the pot and sauté until the vegetables are softened.
4. Add the sliced sausage to the pot and cook until browned.
5. Stir in the bay leaves, dried thyme, paprika, cayenne pepper, black pepper, and salt. Cook for an additional minute to toast the spices.
6. Add the rinsed red beans and chicken broth to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for about 1 hour or until the beans are tender.
7. While the beans are simmering, cook the white rice according to package instructions.
8. Once the beans are tender, remove the bay leaves and use a spoon to mash some of the beans against the side of the pot to thicken the texture.
9. Serve the red beans over a bed of white rice and garnish with chopped green onions.

Interesting Facts