Experience a taste of New Orleans with this flavorful and hearty red beans and rice dish. Slow-cooked red beans, smoked sausage, and traditional Cajun spices come together to create a comforting and satisfying meal that will transport you to the bayous of Louisiana.
Ingredients
- 1 pound dried red kidney beans
- 1 pound andouille sausage, sliced
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 3 stalks celery, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 4 cups cooked white rice
- Green onions, chopped (for garnish)
Directions
- Rinse the red beans and soak them in water overnight.
- In a large pot, heat some oil over medium heat and add the sausage slices. Cook until browned.
- Add the onions, bell pepper, celery, and garlic to the pot. Cook until the vegetables are softened.
- Stir in the bay leaves, thyme, oregano, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper.
- Add the soaked beans and chicken broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 2 hours, stirring occasionally.
- Mash some of the beans to thicken the sauce, if desired.
- Serve the red beans over cooked white rice and garnish with chopped green onions.
- Enjoy your delicious homemade red beans and rice!
Interesting Facts
Red beans and rice is a traditional Monday night meal in New Orleans, stemming from the practice of cooking the beans with leftover pork bones from Sunday's meal.
The 'holy trinity' of Cajun and Creole cuisine consists of onions, bell peppers, and celery, which are featured in this recipe.