Description
Red Beans and Rice is a comforting classic that embodies the heart of Creole cuisine. This easy-to-make dish features creamy red kidney beans simmered with aromatic vegetables and smoky sausage, served over fluffy rice. Ideal for family gatherings or cozy weeknights, it not only nourishes but also brings loved ones together around the table.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups dried red kidney beans (or 1 can, rinsed)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 2 stalks celery, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 oz smoked sausage, sliced
- 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- 4 cups chicken broth (or water)
- 1 cup long-grain rice
Instructions
- Soak red kidney beans overnight in water. If using canned, rinse and drain.
- In a large pot over medium heat, add oil and sauté onion, bell pepper, and celery until softened (about 5 minutes). Stir in garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Add sliced sausage to the pot and sauté until browned.
- Mix in Cajun seasoning and soaked beans (or canned beans), then pour in chicken broth to cover. Bring to a gentle simmer.
- Allow to simmer for about an hour (20 minutes if using canned beans), stirring occasionally.
- Cook rice according to package instructions while beans are simmering.
- Serve the red beans mixture over fluffy rice and garnish with green onions if desired.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 75 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Creole
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Fiber: 15g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: For a vegetarian version, substitute sausage with plant-based alternatives and use vegetable broth. Adjust spice levels by adding cayenne or other heat sources based on preference.