The Best Red Beans and Rice Recipe

Red beans and rice is a timeless dish that holds a cherished place in the culinary heart of Southern cuisine. With its roots deeply embedded in Creole and Cajun traditions, this dish has transcended generations, becoming a beloved staple across the United States and beyond. Often associated with the vibrant culture of New Orleans, red beans and rice embodies the spirit of communal dining, making it a perfect choice for family gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners.

Discover the magic of Southern cooking with this delicious red beans and rice recipe! Rooted in Creole and Cajun traditions, this hearty dish is perfect for family gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners. Learn about the key ingredients like red kidney beans, andouille sausage, and the aromatic holy trinity of vegetables. With easy preparation steps and flavorful seasonings, you can create a dish that celebrates tradition and delights the taste buds. Join us for this culinary adventure!

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Ingredients

1 pound red kidney beans, soaked overnight

4 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth

1 medium onion, diced

1 green bell pepper, diced

2 celery stalks, diced

4 cloves garlic, minced

1 pound andouille sausage, sliced

1 tablespoon vegetable oil

2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

1 bay leaf

Salt and pepper to taste

2 cups long-grain white rice

4 green onions, chopped (for garnish)

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Hot sauce (optional, for serving)

Instructions

Prepare the Beans: After soaking the kidney beans overnight, drain and rinse them thoroughly under cold water.

Sauté the Vegetables: In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, bell pepper, and celery. Sauté until the vegetables have softened, about 5-7 minutes.

Cook the Sausage: Add the sliced andouille sausage to the pot and continue cooking for another 5 minutes until the sausage is browned.

Add Garlic and Spices: Stir in the minced garlic, Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, and bay leaf. Cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Combine with Broth and Beans: Add the soaked kidney beans and pour in the chicken or vegetable broth. Stir to combine, bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours. Stir occasionally, and add more broth or water if necessary until the beans are tender and creamy.

Cook the Rice: While the beans are simmering, cook the rice according to the package instructions. Typically, this involves rinsing the rice, boiling it with water in a pot, and simmering until tender.

Season to Taste: Once the red beans are creamy and soft, season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove the bay leaf.

Serve: To serve, place a generous scoop of rice on each plate, top with the red beans mixture, and garnish with chopped green onions and fresh parsley. Drizzle with hot sauce if desired for an extra kick.

Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 mins | 2 hrs 15 mins | 6 servings