Description
A classic Louisiana Red Beans and Rice recipe featuring slow-simmered red beans with smoky sausage, aromatic vegetables, and Creole seasoning, served over fluffy white rice. This hearty and flavorful dish captures the essence of Southern comfort food and makes a perfect family meal.
Ingredients
Beans and Sausage
- 1 lb dried red beans, soaked overnight and drained
- 1 lb smoked sausage or andouille sausage, sliced
Vegetables and Seasonings
- 1 large onion, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons Creole seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- 2 bay leaves
Liquids
- 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth
For Serving
- Cooked white rice
- Green onions, chopped (for garnish)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Soak Beans: Soak the dried red beans overnight in water to soften them. Drain and set aside before cooking.
- Sauté Vegetables and Sausage: In a large pot over medium heat, sauté the diced onion, green bell pepper, and celery until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and sliced sausage, cooking until the sausage is nicely browned and aromatic.
- Add Seasonings and Beans: Stir in the Creole seasoning, cayenne pepper if using, bay leaves, and the soaked red beans. Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, ensuring the beans are fully covered.
- Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover partially. Let it simmer gently for about 2 hours, or until the beans are tender and creamy.
- Mash Beans: For a creamier texture, use a spoon or potato masher to mash some of the beans against the side of the pot, integrating the softened beans into the broth.
- Serve: Spoon the red beans over cooked white rice and garnish with chopped green onions and fresh parsley. Serve hot and enjoy this hearty Southern classic.
Notes
- Soaking beans overnight reduces cooking time and improves digestibility.
- You can substitute smoked sausage with andouille or kielbasa for different smoky flavors.
- The cayenne pepper is optional and can be adjusted according to your preferred spice level.
- If you prefer a vegetarian version, omit the sausage and use vegetable broth.
- For a thicker consistency, continue simmering uncovered to reduce liquid.