This Cajun Red Beans recipe is a crowd-pleasing dish that will bring a taste of Louisiana to your kitchen. Packed with bold flavors and a spicy kick, this hearty dish is perfect for any occasion. It combines red beans, smoked sausage, and a blend of Cajun spices for a truly satisfying meal. With a cooking time of under an hour, you can have this delicious dish on the table in no time. Serve it with hot steamed rice and a side of cornbread for a complete meal that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients
- 1 pound dried red beans
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound smoked sausage, sliced
- 2 bay leaves
- 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- Cooked rice, for serving
- Chopped green onions, for garnish
Directions
- In a large pot, soak the dried red beans in water overnight. Drain and rinse the beans before using.
- Heat some oil in the same pot over medium heat. Add the onion, bell pepper, celery, and garlic. Cook until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add the sliced smoked sausage to the pot and cook until browned and heated through.
- Stir in the soaked red beans, bay leaves, Cajun seasoning, dried thyme, dried oregano, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
- Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 30 minutes or until the beans are tender.
- Remove the bay leaves from the pot and taste for seasoning. Adjust the salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve the Cajun Red Beans over hot cooked rice. Garnish with chopped green onions.
- Enjoy this flavorful Cajun dish with a side of cornbread for a complete meal.
Interesting Facts
Cajun cuisine originated from French-speaking Acadian immigrants in Louisiana, who combined their traditions with local ingredients.
Red beans and rice is a classic Louisiana dish often served on Mondays as a traditional meal for washing clothes.
Cajun seasoning typically includes a mix of spices such as paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, and dried herbs.