Dive into the heart of Cajun cuisine with a dish that’s not just a meal, but a celebration of flavor and tradition—Red Beans and Rice! This hearty, soul-satisfying recipe is perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in, and it’s sure to impress even the pickiest eaters. With a rich blend of spices, smoky sausage, and creamy beans, this dish will transport you straight to the vibrant streets of New Orleans. Ready to learn how to create this classic comfort food that’s as easy as it is delicious? Let’s get cooking!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 1 hrs 30 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs 40 mins
Cuisine: Cajun
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound red beans, soaked overnight
- 1 onion, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 smoked sausage, sliced
- 6 cups water
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooked white rice for serving
Instructions
- Drain the red beans that have been soaked overnight and rinse thoroughly under cold water.
- In a large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, heat a small amount of oil over medium heat. Add diced onions, green bell pepper, and celery (known as the Cajun holy trinity). Sauté until vegetables are soft and translucent, approximately 5-7 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Add sliced smoked sausage to the pot and cook for 3-4 minutes, allowing it to slightly brown and release its flavorful oils.
- Add the soaked and rinsed red beans to the pot, along with 6 cups of water. Stir to combine all ingredients.
- Add dried thyme, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer, partially covered.
- Allow beans to cook slowly, stirring occasionally, for approximately
- 5 hours or until beans are tender and have created a creamy consistency. Mash some beans against the side of the pot to help thicken the sauce.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper as needed.
- Remove bay leaf before serving.
- Serve hot over cooked white rice, allowing each person to portion their desired amount of beans and rice.
Tips
- Soak Your Beans: For the best texture and flavor, soak the red beans overnight. This not only reduces cooking time but also helps to achieve that creamy consistency you’re looking for.
- The Holy Trinity: Don’t skip the classic Cajun trio of onions, bell peppers, and celery. This aromatic base is essential for building layers of flavor in your dish.
- Sauté Wisely: When cooking the vegetables, allow them to soften and caramelize slightly for about 5-7 minutes. This enhances their natural sweetness and adds depth to the overall dish.
- Use a Heavy-Bottomed Pot: A Dutch oven or heavy pot retains heat well and helps to prevent the beans from sticking to the bottom, ensuring even cooking.
- Mash for Creaminess: As the beans cook, don’t hesitate to mash some against the pot’s side. This technique thickens the sauce and creates that luscious, creamy texture that makes this dish so comforting.
- Adjust Seasoning: Always taste your dish before serving! Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to ensure the flavors are just right.
- Serve with Love: When serving, pile the beans generously over a bed of fluffy white rice. Encourage your guests to mix it all together for the ultimate experience!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 218kcal
Carbohydrates: 30g
Protein: 10g
Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 17mg
