New Orleans Red Beans and Rice Recipe

Red beans and rice are a traditional Creole and Cajun dish known for their comforting flavors and filling combination of beans and rice. This hearty dish features tender red kidney beans slow-cooked with aromatic spices and served over a bed of fluffy white rice. With roots in Louisiana and African American traditions, red beans and rice are special in culinary history. Its robust flavor, nourishing ingredients, and cultural significance combine to create a symphony of flavor and history, evoking the community and togetherness that characterizes Southern and Creole cooking. 

Here’s a tasty Red Beans and Rice recipe you can make at home:

Ingredients

• 1 pound dried red kidney beans
• 1/2 pound smoked sausage (andouille or another variety), sliced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1 green bell pepper, chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups chicken broth or water
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• Cooked white rice for serving
• Chopped green onions for garnish

Instructions

1. Rinse and check kidney beans. Soak overnight or use the “quick soak” method: boil briefly, wait an hour, then drain.
2. Heat vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté onion, bell pepper, and celery for 5-7 mins until soft.
3. Add garlic and smoked sausage, and cook for five more mins until the sausage browns slightly.
4. Put drained beans in the pot. Add chicken broth/water, bay leaves, thyme, oregano, paprika, cayenne, salt, and black pepper. Stir well.
5. Bring to a boil, then simmer covered for 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally. Add more liquid if needed.
6. Once the beans are tender, gently mash some against the pot’s side to thicken the sauce.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
8. Serve beans over cooked white rice, topped with chopped green onions.

A hearty meal is complete with a dish as warming and flavorful as Red Beans and Rice. It is a mainstay of Louisianan cooking, and cornbread is frequently served alongside it. Enjoy the savory homemade red beans, and rice has to offer!