Description
Cajun Red Beans and Rice is a classic Louisiana dish known for its bold flavors and comforting qualities. It combines creamy red beans seasoned with Cajun spices, andouille sausage, and vegetables, served over a bed of fluffy white rice. This dish is a staple in Southern cuisine, embodying the rich culinary traditions of the region.
Ingredients
1 lb (about 2 cups) dried red kidney beans, soaked overnight
1 large onion, finely chopped
1 bell pepper, diced
3 celery stalks, chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 bay leaves 1 tsp dried thyme 1 tsp dried oregano 1 tsp smoked paprika
1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
Salt and black pepper to taste
4 cups vegetable broth
4 cups water
4 cups cooked white rice
Green onions and parsley for garnish Hot sauce (optional)Instructions
1. Soak the Beans: Rinse and sort the dried red kidney beans. Place them in a large bowl, cover with water, and let them soak overnight.
2. Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot or slow cooker, sauté onions, bell pepper, celery, and garlic until softened.
3. Combine Ingredients: Add soaked and drained beans to the pot. Mix in bay leaves, thyme, oregano, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
4. Add Liquids: Pour in vegetable broth and water. Stir well. Bring the mixture to a boil.
5. Slow Cook or Simmer: For slow cooker: Transfer the mixture to a slow cooker, set on low, and cook for 6-8 hours or until beans are tender.
For stovetop: Simmer on low heat for 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally, until beans are tender.
6. Serve: Once the beans are soft and the flavors meld, remove bay leaves. Serve the red beans over cooked white rice.
7. Garnish and Enjoy: Garnish with chopped green onions, parsley, and a dash of hot sauce if desired. Serve hot and enjoy your Cajun Red Beans and Rice!
Pro Tips:
Soaking Beans: Overnight soaking ensures even cooking and reduces cooking time.
Adjusting Spice: Control the heat by adjusting the amount of cayenne pepper.
Mash a Few Beans: For creamier texture, mash a small portion of cooked beans and stir back into the mixture.
Now, savor the delicious flavors of this Cajun-inspired dish without sausage! 
Notes
- Soaking the red beans overnight reduces cooking time and makes them easier to digest.
- Adjust the level of spices according to your taste preferences.
- This dish can be made vegetarian by omitting the sausage and using vegetable broth.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes (plus soaking overnight)
- Cook Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Cajun/Creole
Nutrition
- Calories: 600 kcal
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 1200mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 70g
- Fiber: 15g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 40mg