Traditional Red Beans and Rice Recipe

2022-10-31

By Southern Cook

Southern Cuisine

Main Course

Savor the flavors of the south with this delicious Red Beans and Rice recipe.

Transform Your Weeknight Meal

 Made with rice, red kidney beans, andouille sausage and flavorful spices, cooked with chopped onions, green bell pepper, celery, and either smoked sausage or ham hocks.

Tradition of the South

A traditional southern main course that originated in the southern region of the United States, particularly in the state of Louisiana. 

Vegan and Gluten-Free

The dish has been a staple food in the African American communities of Louisiana for centuries and was often served on Mondays, which was traditionally laundry day. It was a simple and affordable dish that could be prepared ahead of time and left to cook while the women of the household washed clothes. Over time, red beans and rice became a mainstay of Louisiana Creole and Cajun cuisine. 

Heat Up Your Kitchen

It was served at family gatherings, church functions, and festivals, and became an important part of the culture of New Orleans. Today, red beans and rice is a beloved southern dish that is enjoyed across the country, particularly during Mardi Gras season. 

Pitfalls on Red Beans and Rice

 Cooking the beans: Red beans are the star ingredient in this dish and getting the texture right can be a challenge. Soak the beans overnight before cooking, and simmer them until they are tender. It is important to add the seasonings after the beans are cooked through to ensure they do not become too hard.

 Flavoring the beans: Flavors like sausage, ham, and bacon can greatly add depth and richness to the dish. You can add more vegetables like bell peppers, onions, and celery to create a classic cajun flavor profile. Carefully seasoning the ingredients during the cooking process can provide a more complex and delicious taste.

 Achieving the right consistency: The consistency of the red beans should be creamy, thick, and slightly soupy so that it is well-tied with the rice. You can mash the red beans a bit to create a slightly creamy consistency while leaving plenty of whole beans. It is important to keep checking the consistency while cooking and adding more water or stock if needed.

 Cooking the rice: Rice is a great complement to the red beans. Getting the perfect consistency of the rice, ensuring it doesn't overcook or get too starchy or dried out, can be a challenge. Adding salt, stock, and spices while cooking can provide more flavor. You can also follow a 2:1 water ratio to rice, and use a bit less water than you think in the recipe for a lighter result.

 Timing and preparation: Timing the cooking of the red beans and rice can be a challenge as they cook at their own pace. It's important to start with the beans and let them simmer until they are almost ready before starting to cook the rice. Preparing and cooking all the ingredients beforehand, cutting the vegetables, and measuring the spices in advance can save time and make the process less stressful.

Ingredients

• 1 lb red kidney beans, soaked overnight

• 1 lb andouille sausage, sliced

• 1 large onion, chopped

• 2 green bell peppers, chopped

• 3 celery ribs, chopped

• 3 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 tsp dried thyme

• 1 tsp dried oregano

• 1 tsp paprika

• 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper

• 1/2 tsp salt

• 1/4 tsp black pepper

• 1 bay leaf

• 6 cups water

• 2 tbsp vegetable oil

• 4 cups cooked long-grain white rice

Instructions

1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy pot over medium heat. Add sausage and cook until browned.

2. Add onion, green bell peppers and celery. Cook until veggies are softened.

3. Add garlic, thyme, oregano, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, black pepper and bay leaf. Cook until fragrant.

4. Add in soaked beans and water. Bring to boil then reduce heat and let simmer uncovered for about 2 hours, stirring occasionally, until beans are soft and most of the liquid has been absorbed.

5. Remove bay leaf. Serve hot over cooked rice.

Preparation Time 20 min

Cook Time 2 hours

Total time 2 hours 20 min

Nutrition Facts

Calories: 450

Fat: 14g

Saturated Fat: 4g

Carbohydrates: 59g

Fiber: 10g

Sugar: 4g

Protein: 21g

Regional Ingredients Variations of Red Beans and Rice

North Carolina, they may use a spicy seasoning on the fried chicken and serve it with a sweet maple syrup on top of a fluffy waffle, creating a dish known as "Southern-style Chicken and Waffles".

Louisiana, they may add a spicy kick to the fried chicken with Cajun seasoning and serve it with a honey butter drizzle on top of a cornmeal waffle, creating a dish known as "Cajun Chicken and Waffles".

Maryland, they may use a freshly made Old Bay seasoning blend on the chicken and serve it with a side of honey mustard sauce on top of a savory waffle, creating a dish known as "Chesapeake Bay Chicken and Waffles". 

California, they may add a green twist to the dish by using organic, free-range chicken accompanied by avocado, salsa, and a sprinkle of cilantro on top of a whole-grain waffle, creating a dish known as "Californian Chicken and Waffles".

New York City, they may add a luxury twist to the dish by using fried chicken with foie gras and truffle butter on top of a brioche waffle, creating a dish known as "Gourmet Chicken and Waffles".

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